FBI Internships 2026
The FBI runs one of the most prestigious and competitive internship programs in the federal government, placing students inside the nation's premier domestic intelligence and law enforcement agency. The FBI Honors Internship Program accepts approximately 200 students per year — less than 1% of applicants — for a 10-week summer placement at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C. or at field offices across the country. Interns contribute to real FBI operational and administrative functions in areas including cybercrime, counterterrorism, financial crimes, intelligence analysis, legal counsel, accounting, human resources, and information technology. U.S. citizenship and a successful background investigation (which includes polygraph and credit checks) are non-negotiable requirements.
Program Highlights
FBI Honors Interns are paid GS-5 to GS-9 federal pay scale rates ($17–$28/hour) depending on education level and program year
The Honors Internship is highly competitive — approximately 200 spots from 20,000+ applicants annually across all fields and majors
Interns receive SECRET-level security clearance sponsorship, which has significant value for post-graduation national security careers
Placement at FBI Headquarters (D.C.) or 56 field offices provides exposure to field operations, forensic labs, and analytical units
FBI internship alumni have a significantly higher rate of subsequent full-time federal employment and security clearance holders are highly sought after in the private sector
Typical Internship Roles at FBI
Intelligence Analyst Intern — supporting open-source and classified intelligence research, pattern analysis, and threat assessment reports
Cyber Division Intern — assisting with cybercrime investigations, malware analysis, and digital evidence processing (CS and cybersecurity students preferred)
Financial Crimes Intern — supporting white-collar crime investigations involving fraud, money laundering, and securities violations
Legal Division Intern — assisting FBI attorneys with case research, legal memoranda, and administrative law matters (pre-law students)
IT and Technology Intern — supporting IT infrastructure, database administration, and internal systems development for FBI operations
Application Tips
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Apply October–December for the following summer. Applications are submitted through USAJobs.gov — search for "FBI Honors Internship Program."
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U.S. citizenship is mandatory. No exceptions. Green card holders and dual citizens with certain countries may be disqualified.
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The background investigation is extensive and takes 6–12 months. Drug use (especially within the past 3 years), financial delinquency, and certain criminal history are disqualifying.
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Emphasize national service motivation in your application essays. The FBI selects candidates who demonstrate commitment to public safety, justice, and the rule of law.
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Maintain a GPA above 3.0 and avoid any conduct that could complicate a federal background investigation. The clearance process begins long before your start date.
Interested in FBI?
Submit your profile and a PropelGrad recruiter will help you prepare your application for FBI's internship program.