Policy & Research Internship - Spring 2026

Who We Are The Learning Policy Institute (LPI) is a national organization that conducts and communicates independent, high-quality research to shape education policies and improve learning for each and every child. Nonprofit and nonpartisan, LPI connects policymakers at the local, state, and federal levels with the evidence, ideas, and actions needed to strengthen the PreK-12 education system and address the complex realities facing public schools and their communities. Working with policymakers, researchers, educators, community groups, and others who care about improving public schools, LPI advances evidence-based policies that support empowering and equitable learning for all children. Research and Policy Intern Responsibilities

The intern will work directly with members of the policy and research teams and will:

• Assist with a broad set of activities that support policy advancement at the federal and state level, such as legislative research, congressional briefing/hearings attendance, and memo drafting.

Complete research tasks as assigned, such as conducting literature reviews and background research; finding, organizing, and analyzing qualitative and quantitative data; and preparing memos, briefs, reports, and presentations.

• Perform other administrative duties as assigned.
• Typically work 10–12 weeks.
• Typically work 30–40 hours per week.
• Skills and Qualifications

We’re looking for recent graduates or graduate students interested in the intersection of research, public policy, and education. The ideal candidate will possess:

• Demonstrated knowledge of or experience working on education research, national reform efforts, policy and advocacy, federal/state policies and processes, or within the education field.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Familiarity and experience with qualitative and quantitative research and analysis.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in MS Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Must be able to devote at least 30 hours per week for a term of at least 10 weeks.
• The default term is approximately three months with the possibility of extending to up to 12 months.

Compensation Internship positions are paid. The monthly stipend amount for full-time (based on a 40-hour work week) interns ranges from $3000–$3200 per month, commensurate with experience and education and prorated for part-time schedules. Location We offer remote and in-person internships. Our Washington, DC, office is open and staff are welcome but not required to come into the office. Those interested in working on our policy projects must be within commuting distance of our Washington, DC, office. To Apply The application deadline for the Spring 2026 internship cycle is Friday, November 21, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. PT/8:00 p.m. ET.

To apply, please submit the following:

Your resume.

• A cover letter that expresses your goals in pursuing this internship and how those align to LPI's values, your experiences with and interest in education or policy, and dates of availability.
• Contact information for three references (including phone number and/or email addresses)
• A writing sample that highlights your research and analysis skills, between 2-10 pages (excerpted as necessary), and in which you are the primary author.
• If you have any questions, please email lpicareers@learningpolicyinstitute.org.

The Learning Policy Institute has a deep commitment to its staff’s health and well-being and strives to embody the organization’s values within the organizational structure. LPI offers competitive compensation and benefits; prioritizes and provides financial support for professional development; supports diversity, equity, and inclusion work; and values a collaborative culture. LPI is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Candidates must be up to date on COVID-19 vaccinations in order to work onsite in the office.