Are you dreaming of gaining professional experience in the United States with full visa sponsorship and a paid stipend? The Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2026 in the USA is now open for international and domestic applicants. This unique opportunity allows students and recent graduates to work at the Heinrich Böll Foundation’s Washington, D.C. office, engaging directly with experts on global issues like democracy, climate policy, and digital governance.
This fully funded internship provides participants with monthly stipends, visa sponsorship, and career-building experiences in one of the most dynamic policy hubs in the world. Whether you are passionate about environmental justice, democratic governance, or digital transformation, this internship offers the perfect platform to expand your knowledge and network.
About the Heinrich Böll Foundation
The Heinrich Böll Foundation is a politically independent organization affiliated with the German Green Party (Alliance 90/The Greens). Named after Nobel Prize-winning author Heinrich Böll, the foundation promotes democracy, human rights, and sustainable development worldwide.
Its Washington, D.C. office focuses on U.S.–European relations, climate and energy policies, democracy promotion, and digital rights. Through its internship program, the Foundation welcomes talented young professionals who are eager to contribute to international policy dialogues and gain insight into transatlantic cooperation.
Internship Summary
• Host Country: United States of America
• Internship Location: Washington, D.C.
• Internship Duration: 3 months
• Funding Type: Paid (Stipend + Visa Sponsorship)
• Application Deadline: 31 October 2025
This opportunity is available for both Spring and Fall 2026 intakes, allowing flexibility for students or recent graduates to apply for the session that best fits their academic or personal schedules.
Internship Start Dates
The Heinrich Böll Foundation offers two intakes per year for the internship program:
• Spring 2026: Starts on March 2, 2026
• Fall 2026: Starts on September 14, 2026
Each internship lasts for three months, offering interns the chance to gain practical exposure, contribute to ongoing projects, and complete an independent capstone project before the end of their term.
Internship Benefits
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2026 provides both financial and logistical support to ensure that interns can focus entirely on their professional growth and contribution.
Key benefits include:
• Monthly Stipend of $700 USD to cover living expenses in Washington, D.C.
• J-1 Visa Sponsorship for international applicants who are not U.S. residents
• Visa processing costs covered by the Foundation
• Five paid vacation days per three-month internship period (for full-time interns)
• Opportunity to work directly with policy experts, researchers, and advocacy professionals
This comprehensive support makes the internship accessible to students from around the world, regardless of financial background.
Internship Roles and Departments
The Foundation’s Washington office offers internships in several key policy areas. Applicants can select a department that aligns with their academic interests and career goals.
Available Departments
1. Climate & Environment Department: Focused on sustainable development, energy transition, and climate justice.
2. Democracy Department: Works on governance, civic engagement, and human rights issues globally.
3. Digital Policy Department: Explores topics like data privacy, AI governance, and the intersection of technology and democracy.
Interns may support one or more departments depending on ongoing projects and organizational needs.
Internship Requirements
To be eligible for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2026, candidates must meet specific academic and professional requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
• Nationality: Open to applicants from all countries.
• Education:
• Must have completed at least two years of university-level study.
• Must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program, or have graduated with a Bachelor’s degree within the last 12 months.
• Experience:
• Prior experience or coursework in one of the Foundation’s focus areas (Climate, Democracy, or Digital Policy) is highly desirable.
• Language Proficiency:
• Strong English communication skills (written and spoken) are required.
• Commitment:
• Full-time availability of 40 hours per week for three months.
• Part-time arrangements may be considered only in exceptional cases.
These criteria ensure that interns have both the academic grounding and professional interest necessary to contribute meaningfully to the Foundation’s mission.
Intern Responsibilities
Interns play a vital role in supporting the Foundation’s ongoing programs, research, and events. The position involves a combination of administrative tasks, research projects, and communication activities.
1. Administrative Responsibilities
• Provide logistical support for organizing and implementing events, visitor programs, and workshops.
• Manage front desk duties, including answering calls and responding to public inquiries.
• Maintain and update contact lists and program-specific databases.
2. Communications and Media:
• Develop engaging social media content and digital communication strategies.
• Assist in updating website content and blog posts.
• Support the creation of visual or written materials for public outreach.
3. Research and Analysis
• Conduct background research on current political, environmental, and technological issues.
• Prepare research briefs, event materials, or policy summaries for the Foundation’s projects.
• Participate in discussions and brainstorming sessions with the program teams.
4. Capstone Project
Each intern will complete a capstone project during their internship. This can take various forms, such as:
• A policy paper on a relevant issue
• An expert interview or podcast script
• An explanatory video concept
• A series of analytical blog posts
This final project allows interns to showcase their expertise and creativity while contributing to the Foundation’s knowledge base.
Required Application Documents
All applicants must prepare and submit the following documents in English:
1. Personal Statement (250 words) – Explain your motivation, interests, and what you hope to gain from the internship.
2. U.S.-style Resume (1–2 pages) – Highlight your education, work experience, skills, and relevant achievements.
3. Cover Letter – Addressed to the Heinrich Böll Foundation, specifying your preferred department and explaining how your background aligns with its goals.
Ensure that all documents are well-organized, concise, and free from grammatical errors before submission.
How to Apply
Applying for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship is simple and entirely online. Follow the steps below to submit your application successfully:
1. Visit the official application portal
2. Browse the available internship positions and select the one that matches your academic or professional interests.
3. Read the job description carefully to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.
4. Click “Apply” and fill in the online application form.
5. Upload your personal statement, resume, and cover letter in PDF format.
6. Review your information thoroughly before submitting.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as the selection process is competitive. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional documentation.
Why Apply for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship?
• Gain hands-on experience in international policy research and advocacy.
• Work in Washington, D.C., one of the world’s most influential policy centers.
• Receive a monthly stipend and visa sponsorship.
• Engage with global experts on pressing topics like climate justice, democracy, and digital ethics.
• Build a strong professional network across Europe and the United States.
This internship is not just an entry point into global policy work—it’s a launchpad for future leaders committed to creating sustainable and democratic societies.
Ready to apply? Visit the official Heinrich Böll Foundation internship page below to learn more and begin your application.
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Internship 2026 in the USA is a rare opportunity for students and young professionals to gain real-world experience in public policy, environmental advocacy, and digital innovation. With full financial support, visa sponsorship, and a structured learning environment, it’s an ideal stepping stone for anyone looking to launch an international career.
Applications close on 31 October 2025, so start preparing your documents early and apply before the deadline. A transformative experience in Washington, D.C. could be just one click away.