The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) offers a great experience to final-year students and graduates in gaining practical exposure in diplomacy through its Internship Programme. Every year, the MEA shortlists a batch of interns, granting them a detailed insight into foreign policy making and its enforcement by the Government of India. Interns are given specific tasks by the concerned Head of Division (HOD) and could be asked to carry out research, analyze developments, or prepare reports. MEA internships are available in two terms: April to September and October to March. A total of 30 interns are chosen for each term, and the internship period is between one to three months.
Eligiblity Cretaria for MEA Internship Programme
The internship is available for Indian citizens with a graduate degree from a recognized university. Final year students of graduation, in which internships are compulsory as part of the course, can also apply. The applicants should be below 25 years old as of December 31 of the year of internship.
Benefits Of MEA Internship Programme 2025
Interns will be exposed to all aspects of the Ministry’s functioning, including its role in public outreach and service to Indian citizens. Each intern will be paid an honorarium of Rs 10,000 per month to meet basic expenses. In addition, the Ministry pays a one-time air fare allowance for round journey by air between the candidate’s home state or university and Delhi. Interns will have to arrange for their boarding and lodging in Delhi during the internship.
Key Features of MEA Internship
Candidates selected for the internship program will be integrated into one or all of the functions of the Ministry, including its role in the development of foreign policy, relationship with the public, and support to Indian citizens. It’s expected that interns will be committed to researching, writing reports, analyzing developments, and working on projects for the Ministry as determined appropriate by their Head of Division.At the end of the internship, interns will complete a detailed report explaining the work they did in the Midisrty and may be called to provide a presentation of their work findings as well. All work conducted and/or developed by the interns during the program will be property of the Ministry, and interns are expected to be secure in their confidentiality pertaining to any information acquired during their internship.
MEA Internship Programme Selection Process
The entire selection procedure is online-based and handled on the MEA’s exclusive internship portal. Registrations on the portal are essential for candidates wishing to apply through the process. The selection entails two phases of selection: Preliminary Screening and Personal Interview. A state-wise merit list would be drawn, with preference going to candidates hailing from socially backward sections, TADP districts, and female candidates. The final appointment will be held through videoconferencing-based interviews.
How to apply for mEA internship programme
Application for the MEA Internship Programme is done online. Follow the steps below to apply:
- Go to the official MEA Internship Portal.
- Click on the registration link and complete the registration form with your information.
- On successful registration, log in using your credentials.
- Click on “Apply for Internship” and complete the application form with personal, educational, and internship information.
- Submit your application within the deadline.
