Internship
How to Apply for NASA Internship Programmes 2026
How to Apply for NASA
·MIT
Posted 5 months ago
- Host institution
- MIT
About this internship
NASA Internship Programs offer students challenging projects and on-the-job experiences, building confidence, essential technical skills, and career readiness, all essential for the nation’s workforce.
Application Deadlines:
- Fall 2026 OSTEM Internship: 22 May 2026, 11:59 p.m. ET
Tell Me About the Internships:
NASA offers two major internship pathways for students:
- OSTEM Internships – Short-term, project-based, hands-on opportunities to contribute to NASA missions.
- Pathways Internships – Long-term developmental programme leading to federal employment at NASA.
Together, they form NASA’s workforce pipeline, preparing students with technical skills, mentorship, and career readiness.
Quick Facts:
- Over 2,000 students annually participate in NASA internships.
- Most interns receive a paid stipend (amount varies by academic level and session duration).
- Interns work 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday (unless project specifies otherwise).
- Opportunities are open to STEM and non-STEM majors.
At-a-Glance Comparison
| Internship Type | Purpose | Duration | Citizenship | GPA Requirement | Enrollment | Application System |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OSTEM Intern | Short-term, project-based learning | Summer: 10 weeks; Fall/Spring: 15 weeks | U.S. Citizen | 3.0/4.0 | Full-time or part-time college student (undergrad–grad) | NASA STEM Gateway |
| Pathways Intern | Long-term pipeline to civil service | Minimum 12 weeks | U.S. Citizen | 2.9/4.0 | Degree/certificate-seeking student (half-time or more) | USA Jobs |
Who Can Apply?
- OSTEM Internships:
- U.S. citizens, age 16+.
- Full-time or part-time college students (undergraduate through graduate).
- GPA 3.0+.
- Broad range of majors (STEM and non-STEM).
- Pathways Internships:
- U.S. citizens, age 16+.
- Enrolled at least half-time in accredited institution.
- GPA 2.9+.
- Majors aligned to NASA workforce needs.
- Must complete at least 480 work hours before graduation.
Benefits of NASA Internships:
- Paid stipend.
- Mentorship from NASA experts.
- Hands-on project experience.
- Career readiness and technical skill development.
- Direct pipeline to NASA employment (Pathways).
How to Apply:
- OSTEM Internships: Apply via NASA STEM Gateway.
- Pathways Internships: Apply via USA Jobs portal.
- Prepare transcripts, resume, and references.
- Submit before deadlines (Fall 2026: 22 May 2026).