GAO Student Trainee (Management and Program Analysis) Summer Internship 2026 – Complete Guide
The Student Trainee (Management and Program Analysis) Internship at the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is a highly competitive paid federal internship designed for graduate students interested in public policy, government accountability, federal auditing, and program evaluation. This opportunity places students at the heart of the U.S. legislative branch, working directly on issues that improve how government works for Congress and the public.
If you are searching for a U.S. government internship for graduate students, a policy analysis internship in Washington, DC, or a paid federal summer internship in 2026, this GAO program is one of the strongest pathways available.
About the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)
The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent, nonpartisan agency that supports Congress by providing objective analysis, evaluations, and recommendations across a wide range of federal programs and policies. GAO’s work strengthens transparency, accountability, efficiency, and the rule of law in the federal government.
As a GAO intern, you contribute to real-world audits and evaluations that influence national decision-making.
Internship Overview: Student Trainee (Management and Program Analysis)
- Agency: U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO)
- Branch: Legislative Branch
- Position Title: Student Trainee (Management and Program Analysis)
- Internship Type: Paid Summer Internship
- Anticipated Start Date: May 2026
- Duration: 10–16 weeks
- Work Schedule: Full-time
- Location: Washington, DC
- Appointment Type: Non-permanent (with potential conversion)
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
This internship is open exclusively to graduate students.
Eligible Applicants
- Current students enrolled in a graduate or equivalent degree-seeking program
- Enrollment must be full-time or half-time at an accredited institution
- Students must remain enrolled through at least August 2026
Citizenship Requirement
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens
What You Will Do as a GAO Intern
As a GAO Student Trainee, you will gain hands-on experience in federal audits and program evaluations, working closely with GAO analysts on high-impact projects.
Core Responsibilities
- Assist in planning and conducting audits of executive and legislative branch programs
- Collect, organize, and analyze qualitative and quantitative data
- Identify trends, inconsistencies, and policy implications
- Develop evidence-based findings and conclusions
- Prepare high-quality written products aligned with GAO standards
- Present findings verbally to diverse audiences
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams
- Apply research, analysis, and writing skills in real policy contexts
- Engage with diverse perspectives and contribute to team decision-making
This internship is ideal for students pursuing careers in public policy, international development, public administration, economics, political science, law, or management analysis.
Internship Requirements and Conditions
- Must pass a background investigation and suitability determination
- Must complete a minimum of 400 hours, not to exceed 640 hours
- Must maintain continuous student status throughout the internship
- Selective Service registration required for eligible males
If your student status changes at any point, the internship will be terminated.
Qualifications and Grade Levels
GAO offers this internship at GS-07 and GS-09 levels, depending on education.
GS-07 Qualification Requirements
You must be enrolled in a graduate program and meet one of the following:
- Completed 18–35 semester hours (or 27–53 quarter hours) of graduate-level coursework, OR
- Hold a bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (SAA)
Superior Academic Achievement may be demonstrated by:
- Top third of graduating class
- GPA of 3.0 or higher (out of 4.0) overall or in final two years
- GPA of 3.5 or higher in major coursework
GS-09 Qualification Requirements
You must be enrolled in a graduate program and meet one of the following:
- Completed 36+ semester hours (or 54+ quarter hours) of graduate-level coursework, OR
- Possess a master’s degree or equivalent
All qualifications must be met by the start of the internship.
Internship Pay (Washington, DC)
This is a paid federal internship with competitive compensation:
- GS-07, Step 1: $27.39 per hour
- GS-09, Step 1: $33.50 per hour
Education and Transcript Requirements
All applicants must submit academic transcripts (official or unofficial) showing:
- Current enrollment status
- Degree progress or conferral
- Completed semester or quarter hours
Foreign Education
Applicants using foreign education credentials must provide a credential evaluation confirming equivalency to a U.S. accredited institution.
Internship Benefits and Career Pathways
While student intern appointments are nonpermanent, successful interns may be eligible for conversion to a permanent or term GAO position upon:
- Completion of at least 400 hours of internship work
- Successful completion of degree requirements
- Availability of funding and staffing needs
This makes the GAO internship a strong pipeline into federal government careers.
How GAO Evaluates Applicants
Applicants are evaluated using a Category Rating process, based on:
- Resume
- Essay responses
- Education and experience
Candidates are placed into one of three categories:
- Best Qualified
- Well Qualified
- Qualified
Veterans’ preference is applied within each category.
Strong applications include detailed narrative essay responses supported by academic, volunteer, or work experience.
Required Application Documents
A complete application package must include:
- Resume (maximum 2 pages)
- Academic transcripts (graduate and/or undergraduate)
- Proof of current enrollment
- Veterans’ preference documentation (if applicable)
Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
How to Apply for the GAO Internship
Applications must be submitted online via USAJOBS before 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
Application Steps
- Log in or create a USAJOBS account
- Click Apply on the vacancy announcement
- Upload required documents
- Complete the online assessment and essay questions
- Submit your application before the deadline
Applicants can track application status directly through their USAJOBS account.
Equal Opportunity and Accommodations
GAO is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants and interns with disabilities.
Accommodation requests can be directed to: ReasonableAccommodations@gao.gov
Why Apply to the GAO Student Trainee Internship?
This internship offers:
- Direct exposure to federal audits and policy analysis
- Competitive paid internship compensation
- Strong career pipeline into U.S. government service
- Experience working with Congress and federal agencies
- Professional development in research, writing, and analysis
For graduate students serious about public service, accountability, and evidence-based policymaking, the GAO Student Trainee Internship is a top-tier opportunity.