Fall 2026 Intern at International Rescue Committee (IRC): Eligibility, Benefits, Requirements and How to Apply
Fall 2026 Intern
The Fall 2026 Intern opportunity with the International Rescue Committee (IRC) offers current and recently graduated undergraduate and graduate students an opportunity to gain practical experience while supporting refugees and immigrant communities in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA.
The Fall 2026 Intern position requires a minimum commitment of 15 hours per week and at least one day of in-person work each week. The internship lasts approximately 3–4 months and is scheduled for the fall semester.
Fall 2026 Intern – At a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | International Rescue Committee (IRC) |
| Opportunity | Fall 2026 Intern |
| Location | Silver Spring, Maryland, USA |
| Work Arrangement | In-person, at least 1 day per week |
| Duration | 3–4 months |
| Minimum Commitment | 15 hours per week |
| Internship Period | September–December 2026 |
| Compensation | Unpaid |
| Possible Reimbursement | Up to $15/day per diem |
| Orientation | September 8, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 21, 2026 |
About the International Rescue Committee
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a humanitarian organization that works with people affected by conflict and crisis, including refugees and other immigrant populations.
The IRC provides opportunities for students and recent graduates to apply their academic knowledge in practical settings. The Fall 2026 Intern opportunity is designed for individuals who want to develop professional skills while contributing to work that supports vulnerable communities.
What Is the Fall 2026 Intern Opportunity?
The Fall 2026 Intern opportunity is based in Silver Spring, Maryland. Successful interns will participate in an internship lasting approximately three to four months.
Applicants must be able to work in person at least one day per week and commit a minimum of 15 hours every week.
The internship is intended for current students and recent graduates who want to gain real-world experience, develop professional skills and make a meaningful contribution through the IRC.
Who Can Apply for the Fall 2026 Intern Position?
The IRC states that its internships are available to:
- Current undergraduate students
- Current graduate students
- Recently graduated undergraduate students
- Recently graduated graduate students
Non-students may also find opportunities through the IRC’s volunteer programmes.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in working with refugees and immigrant populations and should be comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Fall 2026 Intern Requirements
Candidates for the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity should possess several important qualities.
1. Passion for Refugee and Immigrant Support
Applicants should have a genuine interest in working with refugees and other immigrant populations.
2. Strong Communication Skills
Successful interns should communicate effectively with colleagues, supervisors and other stakeholders.
3. Organization and Attention to Detail
The internship requires candidates who can stay organized, manage responsibilities and pay close attention to details.
4. Ability to Work Independently and in Teams
The IRC is looking for individuals who can collaborate effectively while also completing tasks independently in a fast-paced environment.
Fall 2026 Intern Work Commitment
The Fall 2026 Intern position requires a minimum commitment of 15 hours per week.
Interns must also have the ability to work in person at least one day per week in Silver Spring, Maryland.
The internship normally lasts between three and four months, with the fall internship period running from September through December.
Is the Fall 2026 Intern Position Paid?
The Fall 2026 Intern position at the IRC in Silver Spring is unpaid.
However, eligible Fall 2026 interns may receive a $15-per-day per diem reimbursement to help offset food and travel expenses.
The IRC also notes that students interested in scholarship opportunities can contact their university or the IRC Silver Spring Community Engagement Coordinator for additional information.
Application Requirements
Applicants interested in the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity must apply directly through the relevant internship posting.
A completed application should include:
- Resume
- Cover letter
The cover letter should clearly explain the applicant’s desired position, availability and motivation for applying.
Applicants should tailor their cover letter to the specific internship position. They should also clearly state:
- Number of hours available each week
- Days available
- Available times
- Motivation for applying
- Position or positions of interest
Fall 2026 Intern Application Deadline
The official deadline to apply for the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity is August 21, 2026.
The IRC page itself indicates that the opportunity is available until August 31, 2026, but applicants should prioritize the stated internship application deadline of August 21, 2026 when preparing their applications.
Because application systems and vacancies can change, candidates are encouraged to check the official IRC application portal before submitting their applications.
Fall 2026 Internship Orientation
Selected Fall 2026 Intern candidates are expected to begin their internship by attending an in-person orientation.
The orientation is scheduled for:
Date: September 8, 2026
Time: 9:15 AM–3:30 PM
Location: In person
This orientation is part of the expected start of the fall internship term.
Background Check and Donation Requirement
To protect clients, the IRC requires selected internship and volunteer applicants to complete background checks.
According to the IRC, selected applicants are asked to make a $30 donation to help cover associated background-check costs. Instructions are provided after an applicant has been selected.
Applicants should therefore rely on the official IRC instructions and avoid sending money to unofficial individuals or third-party websites.
How to Apply for the Fall 2026 Intern Opportunity
To apply for the Fall 2026 Intern position, applicants should access the IRC’s official internship openings and search for opportunities based in USA – Silver Spring, Maryland.
If the relevant internship does not immediately appear, the IRC advises applicants to visit its careers page, select “Search Jobs and Apply,” and narrow the search to USA-Silver Spring, MD.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Prepare an updated resume.
Step 2: Prepare a tailored cover letter.
Step 3: Clearly state your weekly availability.
Step 4: Specify the days and times you are available.
Step 5: Explain your motivation for working with the IRC.
Step 6: Search for the Silver Spring, Maryland internship posting.
Step 7: Complete the online application.
Step 8: Submit your application before the stated deadline.
Why Apply for the Fall 2026 Intern Opportunity?
The Fall 2026 Intern opportunity can be valuable for students and recent graduates interested in humanitarian work, refugee services, nonprofit organizations and international development.
The internship can provide exposure to a professional humanitarian environment while allowing participants to apply their skills in a practical setting.
For candidates interested in careers involving refugees, immigrant communities, humanitarian assistance or nonprofit programme delivery, the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity can provide relevant experience and professional development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity open to recent graduates?
Yes. The IRC states that its internships are available to current and recently graduated undergraduate and graduate students.
Where is the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity located?
The internship is based in Silver Spring, Maryland, USA. At least one day of in-person work per week is required.
How many hours per week are required?
Interns must commit to a minimum of 15 hours per week.
How long does the internship last?
The Fall 2026 Intern programme lasts approximately 3–4 months and falls within the September–December internship period.
Is the IRC Fall 2026 internship paid?
The Silver Spring internship is unpaid. Eligible interns may, however, qualify for a $15-per-day per diem reimbursement for food and travel expenses.
What documents are required?
Applicants should submit a resume and tailored cover letter. The cover letter should explain their desired position, motivation and availability.
When is the application deadline?
The stated deadline for Fall 2026 internships is August 21, 2026.
Final Thoughts
The Fall 2026 Intern opportunity with the International Rescue Committee is an opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience in a humanitarian setting while supporting work involving refugees and immigrant populations.
With a 3–4 month duration, a minimum commitment of 15 hours per week, and a requirement for at least one day of in-person work each week, applicants should carefully review the requirements before applying.
Interested candidates should prepare their resume and tailored cover letter early and submit their application before the August 21, 2026 deadline.
Official Application Link
Apply for the Fall 2026 Intern opportunity through the official International Rescue Committee application portal:
Official IRC Internship Application Portal
Applicants can also use the official IRC careers page to search for USA – Silver Spring, MD opportunities: IRC Careers
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