Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How should I respond to the essay questions?

Each of the essay questions should be answered separately. Each response should be between 300 and 500 words in length. Do not exceed the word limit.

How long should my resume be and what should it include?

Your resume should be no longer than one page and should include at least your education, work experience, extracurricular activities, and service experiences.

How do I submit my letters of recommendation?
If you have access to your letters of recommendation, AND the consent of your recommenders, you may submit your three letters of recommendation through the “Recommender” link on our website. Make sure to include your correct unique identifier number (date of birth, last four digits of your social security number.) You should also include the contact information of your recommender.  When asked to certify your letter of recommendation, you should enter YOUR initials in the appropriate field. Again, you should only do this if you have the permission of your recommender.

If you do NOT have access to your letters of recommendation, please forward the “Recommender” link on the White House website to your recommenders. Applicants should make sure to supply their recommenders with their correct unique identifier number (date of birth, last four digits of your social security number.) When asked to certify the letter of recommendation, please have your recommender enter THEIR initials into the appropriate field. Please make sure the recommender includes the contact information required. We may follow up with additional questions.

Will I be penalized if my recommendation is sent in late?

Yes. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted after the due date. Your application will still be reviewed, but you will be penalized for your missing letters of recommendation.

Who should write a letter of recommendation on my behalf?
The White House Internship Program cannot recommend who should write a letter of recommendation on your behalf. However, we encourage you to find individuals who can illustrate your qualifications, character, and commitment to public service.

Do you have to be a U.S. citizen to apply?

Yes. In order to be eligible for the White House Internship Program you must be a United States citizen.

Do you have to be in college to apply?

No. Current undergraduate students are NOT the only eligible applicants. The following individuals are eligible:

• Graduating high school seniors who have enrolled and anticipate attending a college, community college, or university (two-to-four year institution)
• Current undergraduate students
• Current graduate-level students
• College graduates who graduated within two years from an undergraduate or graduate school
• Veterans of the United States Armed forces who possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and have served on active duty anytime in the past two years

Can I mail a hard copy of my application?

No. We cannot accept hard copies of applications. Only applications submitted via our website will be reviewed.

Applicants will receive a confirmation email once their application has been successfully submitted. Applicants should also receive a confirmation email for each of their letters of recommendation.

Is the White House Internship a paid position?

No. White House Internships are unpaid positions. Applicants are encouraged to contact educational and other non-profit organizations to apply for funding or housing assistance, but note that any outside income, funding or housing assistance you may receive as a White House intern must be pre-approved by the White House Counsel’s Office.   If you are selected as an intern, we will be in contact with you to review any outside funds you intend to receive.  Applicants may contact local schools for housing opportunities.

Is housing provided?

No. Applicants must arrange for their own housing. Applicants are encouraged to contact educational and other non-profit organizations to apply for housing assistance. Applicants may also contact local schools for housing opportunities.

My school is on the quarter system, and I will not be finished until after the start date of the program. Can I still participate?

Yes. The White House Internship Program is now offering internship opportunities with the Office of Presidential Correspondence for quarter system students. Quarter-system applicants will be allowed to start their internship at a later date to accommodate their scheduling conflicts.

If you are a quarter-system student, please make sure to identify yourself as such on the application. Additionally, please make sure to choose the Office of Presidential Correspondence as your first and only choice when asked to list your top ten departments of interest.

Is the White House Internship Program a full-time internship?

Yes. Applicants should expect to work at least Monday-Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

Some exceptions will be made for applicants with class or program requirements, but interns must work 4.5 days a week in order to be considered full-time interns. For example, an intern may leave at 1:00 p.m. or later one day per week. 

To whom should the letters of recommendation be addressed?

"To Whom It May Concern" or "White House Internship Reviewing Committee."

Is political preference a deciding factor in the application review process?

No. It is essential, however, that applicants are dedicated to the ideals and mission of the President, the administration and to pursuing a career in public service.

How many people apply for the internship program?

The White House Internship Program is highly competitive and we are experiencing great enthusiasm this year. Applicants are encouraged to submit a thorough application that illustrates your qualifications and commitment to public service.

As a White House Intern, where will I work?

Interns have the opportunity to work in one of several White House departments, including the Office of Cabinet Affairs, the Office of Scheduling and Advance, the Office of Public Engagement and Intergovernmental Affairs, the Office of Legislative Affairs, the Office of Management and Administration, Office of the White House Counsel, the National Economic Council, the Office of Presidential Correspondence, the Presidential Personnel Office, the Communications Department, the Office of Digital Strategy, the Domestic Policy Council, the Office of the First Lady, and the Office of the Vice President.

For a full list of internship placement offices, please visit the web site at: www.whitehouse.gov/about/Internships