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If you’re aiming to build a career that blends research, policy, and public service, few internships offer the depth and credibility of the Pew Charitable Trusts internship. Known for its nonpartisan mission and impact across state and federal policy, Pew opens its doors each year to a select group of interns who are ready to contribute to real work—not just make copies or sit in on meetings. This internship doesn’t just look good on a resume; it gives you the chance to grow your skills while supporting research and advocacy efforts that affect millions of lives.
Before you apply, it’s important to understand exactly what you’re signing up for. Let’s break down everything you need to know—from eligibility and departments to application tips and what your day-to-day might look like. If you’re serious about making your mark in public interest work, these details can help you decide whether this program is the right fit for you—and how to stand out once you’re ready to submit your application.
- What Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
- Who Is Eligible for the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
- What Departments Offer Internship Opportunities at Pew?
- What Does the Application Process Involve?
- What Can You Expect From the Internship Experience?
- Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship Paid?
- Are Remote Internships Available?
- What Skills Can You Gain From the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
- Can This Internship Lead to a Job at Pew?
- How Competitive Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
- Tips for Strengthening Your Pew Internship Application
What Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
The Pew Charitable Trusts internship is a paid, structured program that offers you hands-on experience in public policy, research, advocacy, and communications. This opportunity allows you to contribute to initiatives focused on social and environmental policy, health, and the economy. Based in Washington, D.C., Pew’s internship is highly competitive and attracts applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
If you’re a student or recent graduate looking to grow professionally while contributing to nonprofit work that influences real-world policy, this internship gives you access to one of the most respected nonprofit institutions in the United States.
Pew typically opens internship applications for its summer program in early winter. You can apply online through the official careers page. Internships run for 10 to 12 weeks, with interns working full-time (typically 40 hours per week).
Who Is Eligible for the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
You must meet certain eligibility criteria to apply for a Pew Charitable Trusts internship:
- Be a current undergraduate, graduate student, or have graduated within the past 12 months.
- Possess strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Show academic achievement and a clear interest in public policy or nonprofit work.
- Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Pew welcomes applicants from various fields such as political science, environmental studies, public health, journalism, and law. Previous research experience is a plus but not always necessary. The selection committee values your analytical skills, professionalism, and enthusiasm for evidence-based policy.
What Departments Offer Internship Opportunities at Pew?
The Pew Charitable Trusts internship program spans a wide range of departments. You can choose placements that align with your academic or career goals. Some of the most common departments include:
- Government Performance
- Environmental Initiatives
- Health Policy
- Public Opinion Research
- Legal Affairs
- Communications
- Philanthropic Partnerships
Each department provides a different type of experience. For example, an intern in Government Performance might assist in analyzing state fiscal data, while a Communications intern may work on digital content or press outreach.
Pew assigns you to a specific team based on your qualifications and the organization’s needs at the time of hiring. It’s important to read each internship listing carefully and tailor your application accordingly.
What Does the Application Process Involve?
You must submit your application through Pew’s official job portal. This typically includes:
- An online application form
- A current resume
- A cover letter tailored to the department of interest
- A brief writing sample (for certain roles)
After submission, your application may go through multiple stages, including:
- Initial screening by the HR team.
- A video or phone interview with the internship coordinator or department lead.
- In some cases, a follow-up interview or task assignment.
Make sure your cover letter clearly states why you want to work with Pew, what you bring to the table, and how the experience ties into your academic and professional goals. You don’t need to exaggerate credentials. Instead, focus on your interest in policy, nonprofit work, and meaningful research.
What Can You Expect From the Internship Experience?
The Pew Charitable Trusts internship is not a passive experience. You’ll work alongside seasoned professionals and take on projects that contribute to active campaigns or research goals. Your typical day may involve:
- Drafting policy memos or summaries
- Conducting literature reviews
- Attending team meetings or briefings
- Assisting in project coordination
- Contributing to communications or advocacy materials
You may also be invited to participate in lunch-and-learns, training sessions, and mentorship activities. These sessions are designed to help you understand how nonprofit policy organizations operate and to strengthen your career-readiness.
Interns receive direct feedback and performance evaluations from their supervisors. You’re expected to treat the internship as a professional role with real responsibilities.
Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship Paid?
Yes. Pew provides compensation for all internship roles. While exact pay rates may vary slightly based on location and academic status, the internship is designed to be financially accessible to all interns. This includes:
- Hourly wages for full-time work
- Paid holidays during the internship period
- Assistance with commuting options (if working in-office)
You will be treated as a temporary employee during your internship and will receive support through Pew’s Human Resources team for any administrative needs.
Are Remote Internships Available?
Pew has adapted its internship program in recent years to include both in-person and remote options, depending on public health guidelines and department preferences. When applying, check the specific listing for its work modality. Some roles may require you to be present in the Washington, D.C., office, while others may allow remote participation from anywhere in the United States.
Remote interns still participate fully in team meetings, assignments, and events via video conferencing tools. You’ll also have virtual check-ins and progress reviews throughout the term.
What Skills Can You Gain From the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
This internship helps you develop practical skills that go beyond the classroom. These include:
- Policy analysis
- Research and writing
- Project management
- Nonprofit communications
- Stakeholder outreach
- Legal or legislative research (for law-focused interns)
You will also become more familiar with tools like Microsoft Excel, databases, and internal project tracking software. Beyond technical skills, you’ll learn how to work in a fast-paced nonprofit setting with multiple deadlines and stakeholders.
Many interns report improved confidence in presenting ideas, synthesizing information, and making decisions based on real-time feedback.
Can This Internship Lead to a Job at Pew?
While there is no formal path from internship to full-time employment, Pew does occasionally hire former interns who performed exceptionally well. Interns are encouraged to build relationships with staff and take initiative in their roles.
Pew’s internship program is also a strong credential on your resume. It signals to future employers that you’re capable of producing policy-driven work and collaborating within structured teams. Many interns have gone on to work in federal agencies, think tanks, law schools, or other nonprofit organizations.
How Competitive Is the Pew Charitable Trusts Internship?
The Pew Charitable Trusts internship is selective. You’re competing with candidates from top universities and a variety of majors. What sets successful applicants apart is not just their GPA, but how clearly they show:
- A commitment to public service or nonprofit values
- Curiosity and initiative
- Attention to detail in writing samples and cover letters
- Thoughtful responses in interviews
You don’t need to have previous nonprofit experience to qualify, but you should be able to show how your academic work or interests align with Pew’s mission. Being proactive in your research and clear about your goals can significantly increase your chances.
Tips for Strengthening Your Pew Internship Application
To boost your odds of being selected, follow these best practices:
- Research Pew’s current work before applying and reference it in your cover letter.
- Tailor each application to the department you’re interested in.
- Keep your resume concise but focused on results (quantify impact where appropriate).
- Choose a writing sample that shows analytical thinking and clarity.
- Prepare thoughtful questions if you’re invited to an interview.
You want to come across as someone who’s not only qualified but genuinely interested in contributing to the organization’s mission.
Conclusion
The Pew Charitable Trusts internship can give you a valuable entry point into the world of nonprofit public policy. You’ll gain practical skills, build a professional network, and contribute to causes that shape public decisions. If you’re ready to step into a role with purpose and challenge, this opportunity could be a strong match for your personal and professional goals.
Whether you’re pursuing a career in law, research, advocacy, or communications, applying to this internship is a smart move if you want experience that goes beyond the typical internship experience. Just be ready to put in the work and show Pew that you’re prepared to contribute meaningfully.
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Frequently Asked Questions
You can apply through Pew’s official careers page by submitting a resume, cover letter, and writing sample (if required).
Most internships are offered in the summer, but some departments may open positions at other times of the year.
Not necessarily. Some internships are remote, depending on the department and current office policies.
Submit a sample that showcases analytical writing, such as a policy memo, academic essay, or article summary.
No formal housing assistance is provided, so you’ll need to plan for accommodations if your role is in-person.
