Just this week, the Central Intelligence Agency, (CIA) gave an all call for upcoming participants in their undergraduate and graduate programs. The deadline to apply is June 30, and it’s a great opportunity to get into national security. Working at the CIA is not only about the excitement of the job. It’s about the opportunity to serve your country and protect its interests. The CIA student programs can be the launchpad for a remarkable journey in intelligence.
CIA Student Programs
The CIA’s programs offer a chance to get experience – all while contributing to the work at the CIA. The CIA offers many options to get plugged in while you’re still young, like internships, scholarships, or immersive experiences. If you want to work in the intelligence field, there are great opportunities out there.
1. Scholarship Program
The CIA offers scholarships for graduate and undergraduate programs. Selected students get a year-round salary and up to $25,000 tuition assistance each year. In return, they commit to working at the CIA during their summer breaks, as well as, working at the CIA for a period of 1.5 years for each year of the scholarship program. The deadline to apply for this program is June 30.
2. Internship Opportunities
The CIA also offers internship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. From finance to engineering, there are a lot of internship opportunities to be had at the CIA. The key here is time. If you want to pursue an internship with the CIA, your best bet is to submit your paperwork 6-12 months prior to your desired start date. These internships offer hands-on experience, mentorship, and a chance to work on real-world intelligence projects.
3. Fellowship Programs
The Directorate of Analysis at the CIA offers exclusive fellowships tailored for undergraduate and graduate students attending Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs). Undergraduate and graduate students benefit from professional development programs and networking opportunities within the Intelligence Community (IC). To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in or accepted to a four-year, accredited MSI and commit to completing at least one 90-day session at the CIA.
Intelligence Career
The CIA’s student programs are highly competitive, and the selection process is rigorous. But if you have a genuine interest in national security and intelligence, this route could be the ticket to your future career. Things like academic performance and language proficiency play a role in the selection too. These CIA programs offer a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned professionals. But not only do you get to learn, but you get to contribute – which is key in developing skills that will be invaluable in a career in intelligence.
