BIA Pathways Internships for Students

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) Pathways Internship Program connects current college students to paid internships, both full-time and part-time, with the BIA and Tribal Nations across the United States of America. The program offers structured training, professional development, and meaningful hands‑on experience, preparing interns for an impactful career in public service and offers a direct pipeline to full-time employment with the BIA or Tribal Nations upon graduation.

Internships with the BIA offer students the opportunity to gain work experience, explore various career paths, and support mission-driven work that supports Tribal Nations and communities. BIA Pathways student interns receive:

• Paid full-time and part-time internship opportunities
• Training, professional development, mentoring, and enhancement sessions
• Opportunity to explore different offices and career paths
• Travel opportunities for field work and/or program activities
• A direct pipeline to full-time federal or tribal employment, including eligibility for non-competitive conversion after graduation
• Student-lead internship design

This program is designed to develop the next generation of leaders in Indian Country and strengthen the BIA’s long-term workforce pipeline.

BIA Pathways Internships are open to current students aged 16 or older who are enrolled at least half-time in a qualifying educational institution. Students pursuing any level of postsecondary education, from certificate and associate programs through doctoral degrees, are eligible. For more information on internship eligibility requirements, learn more at Pathways Internship Program Eligibility.

If you are an enrolled member of a federally-recognized Tribe or are Alaska Native, you may claim Indian Preference status by submitting BIA Form 4432.

Because the BIA serves Tribal Nations across diverse program areas, BIA Pathways interns are able to participate in work that spans many disciplines. Opportunities vary by year and host office. Though, BIA Pathways hires interns in almost every major academic field. The program is designed to help students apply their education to real-world projects, professional training, and mentorship from experienced federal and tribal leaders.

Offices or Tribal entities interested in hosting Pathways student trainees can learn more about BIA Pathways Host Information.