Spring 2026 Semester

Application Information

The Chancellor’s U.S. Capitol Internship Program was established to provide TXST students the unique opportunity to serve as Congressional and public policy interns in Washington, D.C. The program also provides interns with financial support. Interns will engage with and develop a greater understanding of the policymaking and legislative processes while gaining invaluable professional skills, practical government work experience, and a more robust professional network.

The ability to apply academic theory in a professional work environment is critical to a successful internship experience. To ensure student success in this area, program participants will enroll in a public policy research course, in addition to a six-credit-hour internship course during their internship semester.

While applicants must meet certain minimum requirements, there is much more to the selection process. For example, applicants must demonstrate a positive attitude, solid work ethic, excellent communication skills, adaptability, and creativity. While interning in the nation's capital will require hard work and some late nights, it can also be an extremely rewarding experience, giving students valuable policymaking skills and helping them achieve their long-term career goals. 

Background Screening

Finalists must successfully complete background screening as a pre-condition to an internship.

 Eligibility Requirements 

Students from all disciplinary backgrounds are eligible for consideration, but you must have a demonstrated interest in public policy and government. Note: U.S. Citizenship is required for internships in Congressional offices. 

Applicants must be in good standing with TXST and meet the requirements listed below:

  • Undergraduate Students – have completed a minimum of 60 TXST semester credit hours with a minimum cumulative 3.0 TXST GPA
  • Graduate Students – have completed a minimum of 15 TXST semester credit hours with a minimum cumulative 3.25 TXST GPA
  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted for permanent residence (required for internships in Congressional offices)

When determining your completed TXST semester credit hours, you may include those hours in which you are currently enrolled.

Please note that a scholarship offered to students selected for this program may impact your overall financial aid and scholarship offer(s). Please contact Financial Aid and Scholarships via the TXST One Stop Web Inquiry Form or (512) 245-TXST with any aid questions.

Application Open and Close Dates for Spring 2026 Internships

Application Open: September 22, 2025
Application Deadline: October 13, 2025 (at midnight)

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the Bobcat Online Scholarship System (BOSS).

 Application Checklist:
  • Complete Texas State scholarship applications via BOSS
    • General Application
    • The Chancellor's U.S. Capitol Internship Housing Scholarship - Spring
      •  Upload résumé
      • Upload copy of your TXST unofficial transcript
      • Two letters of recommendation (one letter must be from a TXST faculty or staff member)
      • Provide links all public and private social media accounts
      • Essay

Questions regarding the U.S. Capitol Internship should be directed to the Texas State Political Science Department at agh72@txstate.edu.