Every year, the National Geographic Society provides a number of students with a paid opportunity to spend the summer exploring and learning with us. We offer a wide range of dynamic internships that are designed to offer a well-rounded experience. Our goal is to provide engaging, educational and work-related opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students.
The Program
In addition to gaining extensive professional experience, our internship program seeks to inspire, educate and build lasting connections through regular events with some of the National Geographic Society’s staff, Explorers, educators and storytellers. Throughout the program, you will receive support and guidance from a wide array of National Geographic staff as you explore what it is like to help us achieve our mission to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world.
In June 2026, we opened the National Geographic Museum of Exploration, a groundbreaking attraction at our Washington, D.C. offices. The Museum of Exploration is a new home for exploration, inviting visitors to embark on immersive experiences that celebrate the spirit of exploration and discovery.
As we focused our effort on preparing for opening day and welcoming guests in the months that follow, we’ve postponed our 2026 Internship Program to ensure we can continue offering a best-in-class experience. The program will resume in 2027, inviting a new class of interns to spend the summer learning and exploring with us.
KEY DATES
Application period: January 18, 2027 – February 26, 2027
Start date: June 7, 2027
End date: August 13, 2027
Internships at the National Geographic Society
How to Apply for an Internship
We seek bold people who share our passion for exploration, storytelling, science and education who want to help spread our mission. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to explore our open positions.
When completing the online application, upload your resume and cover letter as a single document file. (Prior to submitting your application, review our FAQs below.)
If you have questions about the application process, please contact careers@ngs.org.
National Geographic Society follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials. To promote the health, safety, and well-being of all staff, all National Geographic Society employees are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated against COVID-19.
National Geographic is an equal opportunity employer. All employment-related decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age, disability, veteran status, citizenship, marital status, or any other legally protected category.
Testimonials
“The internship was even better than I could’ve expected. I knew it would be cool to be at National Geographic, but I did not know I would feel so supported and welcomed by everyone I interacted with. I felt like I was doing meaningful work, and was never “just an intern” but a part of the team.”
“I loved all of the Meet and Greets that were offered to interns. It was a great way to see more of National Geographic, learn about many different career paths, and have the opportunity to ask questions. I also loved being able to contact any National Geographic employee for lunch of coffee so that I could learn more about their job and career path.”
“I've been surprised, in the most positive way possible, at how broad the verb ‘explore’ can be. I’ve always thought of exploration as synonymous with faraway places and dangerous terrain. But being here has shown me that being an explorer is about your state of mind, not a physical place. You can do it anywhere — as long as you never stop listening and asking questions.”
Internship FAQs
Who can be a National Geographic Society Intern?
An intern should be a student enrolled at an accredited college or university and be a rising sophomore or above. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.
When are internships offered at National Geographic Society?
Internships are offered in the summer. The program is 10 weeks long and runs from June through August.
When are internships posted?
Internships are posted in mid-January.
Will the internship program be remote or in-person?
All internships will be U.S.-based. Most internships will be remote with one week in Washington, D.C.
Can I apply for multiple internships? Is there a limit on how many I can apply for?
Yes, however we encourage students to be selective and strategic, applying only for positions that align closely with their academic background and qualifications.
Can I get academic credit for my internship?
National Geographic Society does not offer unpaid internships for college credit. All internships are paid; however, you would still be eligible to earn academic credit if required by your university.
Does National Geographic Society offer internships outside of the United States?
At this time, all National Geographic Society internship opportunities are U.S.-based.
Are international students eligible to apply?
A student must be enrolled in an accredited college or university and be eligible to work in the U.S. in order to qualify.
When applying for an internship, should I include a cover letter?
Yes. Please submit a resume and cover letter. Each document must be submitted as a single file. Applications without a cover letter will be deemed incomplete.
I forgot to attach my cover letter. What do I do?
Unfortunately, once an application is submitted, it cannot be amended. If additional information is required for your application, a member of our Human Resources team will reach out to you.
Are interns eligible for benefits?
While interns are not eligible for most company benefits, they are eligible for sick and bereavement leave, participation in our 401(k) program, receive discounts at our National Geographic Store and free access to our gym.
If I am accepted, what kind of work will I be doing?
Responsibilities vary for each role, but all of our internships are designed to provide a learning opportunity to our students. Some interns will work on one project throughout their internship while others will work on multiple smaller projects. Interns will have the opportunity to network, receive mentorship, attend meetings and participate in our events.
Will I be notified if not selected?
Notification will only go out to candidates who make it to the interview process or are selected.
What should we know about COVID-19 and vaccine requirements?
National Geographic Society follows the guidance of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and public health officials. To promote the health, safety, and well-being of all staff, all National Geographic Society employees are strongly encouraged to be vaccinated against COVID-19.