Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- What is Federal Student Aid?
- Why would I be interested in interning at Federal Student Aid?
- Can I still apply for the 2008 Summer Internship?
- Who is eligible to apply?
- How are students hired?
- How long is the internship?
- Are internships paid?
- Can the internship be taken for credit?
- How many hours per week am I expected to work?
- Is there a set work schedule?
- Where are the internships located?
- What other benefits will I receive?
- How much clerical work is there?
- Will there be opportunities to interact with other interns?
- Does the program provide housing?
- Who can I contact if I have more questions?
What is Federal Student Aid?
Federal Student Aid, an office of the U.S. Department of Education, ensures that all eligible individuals benefit from federal financial assistance- grants, loans and work-study programs and is the largest source of student financial aid in America, providing $80 billion annually in grants, low-interest loans and work-study.
Why would I be interested in interning at Federal Student Aid?
As an intern, you will have the opportunity to work on challenging projects that impact the millions of students who receive financial aid. You'll be given real work and the opportunity to make a valuable contribution. Additionally, Federal Student Aid offers paid internship opportunities.
Can I still apply for the 2008 Summer Internship?
Unfortunately, applications are no longer being accepted for the 2008 Summer Internship.
Please check back in early 2009 for information about applying for next summer.
Who is eligible to apply?
The Federal Student Aid Internship Program is open to U.S. citizens currently enrolled at least half time at an academic,
technical or vocational, two- or four-year college or university or a graduate or professional school.
Please note that if you have graduated or will graduate prior to the program’s end, you are not eligible to participate.
Visit Eligibility Requirements for more information.
How are students hired?
Students are appointed under the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP). To find out more information about this program, please visit
http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/STUDENTS.asp.
How long is the internship?
The summer internship runs approximately 10 weeks, but opportunities may exist for the internship to continue through the school year.
Are internships paid?
Yes! Interns will be paid depending on their education level and relevant work experience.
Can the internship be taken for credit?
Since the policies of all schools and universities vary, you should contact your school's registrar and inquire about the particular rules of your school.
How many hours per week am I expected to work?
Summer interns work a full 40-hour schedule.
Is there a set work schedule?
Interns work 8.5 hours each day, including a half hour for lunch. Most interns work 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. However, interns may adjust their schedule with approval from their supervisor.
Where are the internships located?
All of our internships are located in Washington, D.C., at 830 First Street, N.E. Our office is conveniently located on the Metro’s red line near Union Station.
What other benefits will I receive?
Interns will accrue annual and sick leave and up to $110 in transit benefits each month.
How much clerical work is there?
Although there may be some clerical work involved, the Federal Student Aid internship program prides itself on offering an internship program that focuses on meaningful work that will help make you a more appealing candidate in future endeavors.
Will there be opportunities to interact with other interns?
Yes — Federal Student Aid hires more than 30 summer interns each summer and provides many opportunities—through field trips, training classes and group lunches—for the interns to interact.
Does the program provide housing?
While Federal Student Aid does not provide housing, we can help point you to some of the available options. Check back soon for an updated housing list.
Who can I contact if I have more questions?
Please e-mail fsa_interns@ed.gov with any questions.
This brochure explains the differences between federal and private education loans.
For copies of this brochure, visit www.edpubs.org or call 1-877-4ED-PUBS.
