Student Programs

DCSA Student Experience (DSE)

The DSE is a paid internship program designed to attract talented full-time students from undergraduate, graduate or juris degree programs with an accredited college or university. Students gain marketable developmental experience in student trainee positions across our mission areas, special staff and mission support directorates.  Available positions change each year based on mission needs and funding.

Highlights

The Summer Cohort runs from June through August with students working a minimum of 10 weeks as full-time temporary federal employees. The Summer Cohort offers an orientation designed specific for students entering the federal workforce, and specifically DCSA, mentorship from their supervisor and delegated lead, leadership training opportunities, a guest speaker series, and the opportunity to present their capstone project at the end of cohort Student Showcase.

Eligibility

DCSA eligibility:

  • Be a U.S. citizen

  • Obtain and maintain the required security clearance

  • Provide a negative pre-employment drug test and is subject to random drug testing throughout employment

DSE eligibility:

  • Considered a full-time student in an undergraduate, graduate or juris degree program from an accredited college or university

  • Intend, with successful performance, to complete two consecutive summer cohorts

  • Maintain full-time student status through the semester after the second summer cohort

  • Maintain a minimum cumulative 3.0/4.0 GPA at application, time of onboarding & throughout employment

  • Live in the local commuting area of their selected position during the summer cohort

Note: DCSA does not participate in the OPM Pathways Internship Program. Completion of the DSE does not guarantee appointment to a permanent position. Students who are successful in DSE may be eligible for non-competitive conversion to a permanent position based on mission need, funding availability and other required organizational factors.

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MORE INFORMATION

The application cycle for each summer cohort begins in the fall prior. The application period for the Summer 2026 DCSA Student Experience (DSE) internship has now closed.

If you're interested in a DSE internship for Summer 2027, please check back here in Fall 2026 for application information.

Important: Do not send resumes directly, as they will not be considered.

For any additional questions, you may contact the DCSA Student Programs team at dcsa.studentprograms@mail.mil.