The Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum and research complex, has officially opened applications for its Summer 2026 internship cycle. Specifically, this includes prestigious tracks like the Katzenberger Foundation Art History Internship and the National Air and Space Museum Internship. Consequently, selected interns will receive a generous living stipend to spend 10 weeks in Washington D.C. (or New York), working directly with curators, historians, and scientists.
Program Overview
This is the premier internship for students interested in history, art, culture, and science. Therefore, it is far more than a “shadowing” role; interns lead their own research projects, from cataloging rare space artifacts to designing educational apps. By joining, you gain access to the Smithsonian’s vast archives and a network of professionals at institutions like the National Museum of Natural History and the Cooper Hewitt Design Museum.
Key Benefits
The program offers one of the most competitive stipend packages in the museum sector. Specifically, the benefits include:
- Stipend: A total stipend of $8,000 (approx. $800/week) for the 10-week session.
- Duration: June 1 – August 7, 2026.
- Mentorship: One-on-one guidance from a Smithsonian mentor.
- Access: Behind-the-scenes access to collections not open to the public.
- Academic Credit: Can be arranged with your home university.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, an applicant must generally be an undergraduate student (junior/senior) or a recent graduate. Crucially, the Katzenberger track is specifically need-based, meaning it prioritizes students who receive financial aid.
- Education: Must be enrolled in a degree program (Undergraduate or Graduate).
- GPA: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required.
- Financial Need: For the Katzenberger track, you must demonstrate financial need (e.g., FAFSA recipient).
- Citizenship: U.S. citizenship is required for some funded tracks, but international students can apply for general internships (visa support provided for J1).
Application Process
- Deadline: March 6, 2026 (5:00 PM EST).
- Submission: You must apply through the SOLAA (Smithsonian Online Academic Appointment) portal.
- Requirements: A transcript, a resume, two letters of reference, and an essay addressing your academic and career goals.
