If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping directly into the world of public service—working on policy, research, community development, or federal initiatives—this is your moment. The Conference on Asian and Pacific American Leadership (CAPAL) has opened its 2026 Public Service Internship & Scholarship Program, an incredible pathway for students who want experience that actually matters.
Whether you picture yourself contributing to national policy in Washington, DC, or supporting community-focused work in states like California, Wisconsin, or Hawaii, CAPAL gives you the platform, the mentorship, and yes—the paycheck—to make it happen.
Funding & Benefits: What This Opportunity Offers?
CAPAL’s program is designed to support your professional growth while ensuring you’re compensated for your work. Here’s what makes it stand out:
CAPAL offers paid internships and development opportunities designed to help students build public service careers with confidence.
- Paid Public Service Internships – Every intern receives a minimum stipend of $3,000, with potential variation depending on placement and internship duration.
- Washington Leadership Program – Get immersed in high-level leadership training right in the heart of the nation’s capital.
- Community Action Projects – Contribute to initiatives that directly impact local communities.
- Professional Development – Access skill-building workshops, mentorship, and exclusive networking events with leaders in public policy.
- Placement Across the United States – Intern roles span areas such as research, policy, communication, scientific projects, law, and business, available in both urban and rural locations.
- CAPAL–MAASU Scholarship – A special undergraduate scholarship for students enrolled at Midwest Asian American Students Union (MAASU) member institutions.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria
CAPAL looks for students who are committed to contributing to public service and uplifting communities—especially the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) community.
Students from all backgrounds and majors are encouraged to apply if they meet the following criteria:
- Must be a current undergraduate or graduate student at an accredited institution.
- Must demonstrate a strong academic record.
- Must show a clear commitment to public service, especially service benefiting AANHPI communities.
- Open to applicants from all majors—policy experience is not required.
- Applicants from underrepresented groups—including Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ applicants—are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Must be able to commit to internship timelines for Spring, Summer, or Fall 2026.
How to Apply?
Applying is straightforward but requires all components to be submitted through the online portal once applications open. Here’s what to expect:
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload a personal statement (maximum 750 words) explaining your motivation and qualifications.
- Attach your one-page résumé.
- Provide an official or unofficial transcript.
- Submit one letter of recommendation.
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Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and selected applicants will be invited for an interview with CAPAL. Internship finalists will then interview with partner agencies.
Deadlines
Applications for CAPAL’s Public Service Internship & Scholarship 2026 open on Monday, December 1, 2025, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For the Spring 2026 Internship, the priority deadline is January 9, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET, with all interns matched by mid-January and internships running from February to May. For the Summer 2026 Scholarship & Internship Program, applications close on March 6, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET, with matching in April and internships completed during June and July.
For the Fall 2026 Internship, the priority deadline is July 31, 2026, at 11:59 pm ET, with matching in August and internships running from September to December, although late submissions may still be reviewed on a rolling basis.