GAO Internship Opportunity For Bachelor’s Students (Hiring 2025)

Are you a current bachelor’s student searching for a meaningful internship that will give you a competitive edge in your career? If so, the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) has an incredible opportunity for summer 2025! This internship program is designed to offer students and recent graduates hands-on experience, helping them explore careers in the federal sector while contributing to work that makes government programs better.

If you’re ready to take the first step in building a rewarding career, this is your chance to do it with the GAO!

Discover the GAO and Its Mission

The GAO is an independent, nonpartisan agency that works directly for Congress. Its primary mission is to provide reliable information, analysis, and recommendations aimed at improving federal programs, policies, and operations. By identifying solutions to complex challenges, GAO teams contribute to ensuring government accountability and efficiency.

This internship focuses on working with GAO’s Innovation Lab, where students will develop tools to improve oversight of federal programs and enhance internal operations.

Program Overview:

The GAO’s Summer Internship Program is uniquely tailored for students majoring in Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, or Data Science. Interns will tackle exciting projects, collaborate with experienced professionals, and gain hands-on technical skills.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Supporting the development and enhancement of tools that support federal program oversight.
• Collecting, analyzing data, and drafting written or oral presentations that share key findings.
• Participating in parts of the lifecycle of a data science prototype or analysis project.
• Learning to work with tools such as R, Python, SQL, SAS, or STATA to carry out technical tasks.
• Assisting teams in Innovation Lab projects that test new technology and ideas.
• Completing assignments spanning various fields and building a strong understanding of the agency’s work and objectives.

Interns will also have the opportunity to showcase their skills by contributing to prototypes and solutions that address real-world challenges faced by government programs.

Internship Requirements

To qualify for this GAO internship, applicants must meet specific eligibility and education requirements.

General Eligibility:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Be a current undergraduate student enrolled at least half-time in a degree program from an accredited academic institution.
• Maintain good academic standing through the internship.

Education Requirements:

Applicants must meet at least one of the following criteria to qualify for the GS-4 pay level (entry-level federal pay scale):

1. Completion of at least 60 semester hours or 90 quarter credits of accredited bachelor’s-level education.
2. Possession of an Associate’s degree.

Applicants must major in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, or a closely related field. You’ll also need to submit transcripts to verify your academic background and enrollment.

Why Choose a GAO Internship?

Participating in the GAO Internship Program isn’t just about gaining professional experience—it’s about making a difference in the world of public service. Here’s what makes this internship stand out:

Benefits:

• Practical Experience: Work on meaningful projects that have a real impact on the government’s efficiency and accountability.
• Mentorship: Receive guidance and support from experienced professionals in your field of study.
• Skill Development: Learn cutting-edge tools and techniques in data science and analysis.
• Networking: Build valuable connections with professionals, mentors, and like-minded peers.
• Career Growth Opportunities: Internships at GAO often lay the foundation for future careers in federal service. High-performing interns may have opportunities for permanent positions based on agency needs.

The emphasis on leadership, collaboration, and innovation ensures that every assignment helps you develop both personally and professionally.

Hiring Conditions and Additional Information

• Duration: The Summer Internship runs for 10–16 weeks, starting in May 2025.
• Hours: Students are required to work a minimum of 400 hours, not exceeding 640 hours during the program.
• Remote Work: Some assignments may allow remote working, though this depends on agency policies and placement.
• Housing and Relocation: Interns are responsible for their own housing and travel arrangements.

Internship roles are paid positions, aligned with the GS-4 federal pay scale for student interns. Be sure to familiarize yourself with potential relocation needs and confirm details during the application process.

How to Apply

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials

Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready before you begin the application process, including:

• An updated resume highlighting your academic achievements, technical skills, and relevant experience.
• Transcript(s): Submit official or unofficial transcripts demonstrating your enrollment and academic qualifications.
• Additional supporting documents like the OF-306 form or DD-214 for veterans (if applicable).

Applicants should include details about their field of study, GPA, and course completion relevant to mathematics, data science, or computer science.

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Log in to USAJOBS.gov and search for “GAO Internship 2025.” Follow the instructions to complete the job application and upload your documents. Be mindful of the deadline to ensure timely submission.

Step 3: Stay Updated

After submitting your application, track its status on USAJOBS. The selection process includes reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and verifying applicant qualifications.

Applicants selected for the position will need to provide an official transcript at orientation or within three business days of starting the internship.

Take the First Step Toward Your Future

This is more than just an internship—it’s your chance to explore meaningful opportunities, make valuable connections, and start building a rewarding career with one of the most influential agencies in federal government.

If you’re passionate about data science, technology, and public service, the GAO’s Summer Internship Program is the perfect way to challenge yourself and contribute to meaningful federal projects. Don’t wait—prepare your job application and seize this extraordinary opportunity for summer 2025!

Submit GAO Internship Application