International Internship Program
A rare, fully remote international internship program open to high school and undergraduate college students across Asia, offering hands-on experience in U.S.-Asia policy research, analysis, and communications.
A rare opportunity for students in Asia
This international program gives high school and undergraduate college students across Asia the rare chance to work remotely alongside AFAI's analysts on assigned research projects. You'll contribute to analysis that reaches real decision-makers, and earn a program certification plus a letter of recommendation upon completion.
The program runs for one month, with all positions fully remote so participants can contribute from anywhere while working alongside AFAI's analysts on substantive projects.
Most interns are assigned to specific research projects aligned with their track and interests, contributing to analysis that reaches real decision-makers.
Upon successful completion of the program, interns receive a program certification, and a letter of recommendation will be provided upon request.
Choose your focus
Policy Research
Conduct research and analysis on U.S.-Asia trade, security, and technology under the guidance of senior analysts.
Communications & Media
Support editorial, digital, and media outreach that brings AFAI's analysis to a wider audience.
Events & Outreach
Help plan and execute briefings, Executive Club convenings, and partnership engagement.
Areas you can work on
Interns contribute to ongoing research across a range of policy and social issue areas. Below are some of the topics our current projects explore.
Clean Energy Development
Examining renewable energy transitions, energy security, and the policy frameworks shaping clean energy cooperation across the U.S. and Asia.
High-Tech Waste Recycling
Investigating advanced recycling technologies, circular economy models, and the management of electronic and industrial waste in a digital age.
Environmental Protection
Analyzing cross-border environmental policy, climate adaptation, and the balance between industrial growth and ecological sustainability.
Regional Security
Studying Indo-Pacific security dynamics, maritime disputes, alliance structures, and the strategic competition shaping the region.
Social Issues
Exploring migration, labor markets, public health, and inequality as they intersect with U.S.-Asia economic and policy trends.
International Trade & Tariffs
Assessing tariff regimes, trade agreements, and supply chain shifts as nations renegotiate the terms of global commerce.
International Young Leaders Internship Program
A remote research and leadership training program designed to cultivate the next generation of Asia-focused policy leaders through structured mentorship, independent research, and executive-style leadership development.
Leadership Training
Structured modules on executive leadership, policy communication, and strategic decision-making.
Independent Research
Produce an original policy brief or research paper under senior analyst mentorship.
Mentorship
One-on-one guidance from AFAI analysts and affiliated policy professionals.
Global Network
Join a peer cohort of emerging leaders across Asia and the United States.
Who should apply
- High school or undergraduate college students based in Asia
- Strong interest in U.S.-Asia relations and America First policy
- Excellent writing and research skills
- Ability to work independently and collaborate with a remote team
- One month up to three months depending on the program
- Application is open all year long
Eligibility criteria may be adjusted as the program evolves.
Application Form
All required fields are marked. Submissions are sent directly to the AFAI team.