It’s raining summer programs. Previously on Opportunities Radar, we shared about the BSDY Summer Program in the United States. Yet again, we are here with an exciting summer program in the USA, which you should not miss out on. The Niskanen Center, a renowned American think tank based in Washington, through its official website, has announced applications for its flagship “Niskanen Summer Institute 2026: Democracy that Works.
It’s a fully funded one-week intensive academic programme based in Washington, DC, aimed at inviting leadership-minded undergraduate students and providing them with a deeper understanding of the intersection of politics and policy, as well as exposure to the Niskanen Center’s Framework for institutional reforms. The duration of the summer programme is 1-week, scheduled to take place from June 8 to June 12 in Washington. During the intensive academic program, participants will have an opportunity to gain valubale insights into the understanding of how Washington operates and influence the debates that determine the nation’s political and economic trajectories.
Moreover, summer students will also have the opportunity to interact with the renowned policy-makers and think tanks who are shaping a better future for all. No application fee is required for the program. The application process is via offical “Niskanen Center” portal, and the last date for submission of the application is February 27th, 2026. Read more details below
Niskanen Summer Institute 2026 in the USA: Overview
| Location | Washington, DC |
|---|---|
| Hosted By | Niskanen Center |
| Coverage | Fully Funded |
| Programme Dates | 8–12 June 2026 |
| Number of Awards | 15–20 |
| Application Deadline | February 27, 2026 |
Also, Check: NIMS Internship Programme 2026 in Japan (Fully Funded)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants meeting the following criteria are invited to apply:
- Applicants currently enrolled in the undergraduate degree program in the class of 2026 or later
- Individuals must be authorized to work in the United States
- Demonstrate interest in public policy, public reforms, and democracy
- Commit to full participation in the programme
- Visionary thinkers who excel in a team-oriented, fast-paced work environment
Programm Topics
- Consequences & Causes of the Current Political Realignment
- Challenging American Institutions are facing
- Prospects for Coalition Building & Pragmatic Politics
- Emerging Policy Debates on issues like Housing, State capacity, immigration, Health care, Welfare System, and state capacity
Coverage
The Niskanen Center offers generous support to the participants, such as:
- Round-trip Air travel support to/from Washington, D.C.
- Participants will recieve $250 stipend for the program
- Accommodation in Washington, D.C. during the programme dates
- Local transportation and meal costs
Benefits
- Participants will gain valubale insights into U.S policymaking through engaging workshops, intensive seminars, and group discussions
- Networking with the changemakers, policy professionals, and researchers
- Professional developments in a wide range of areas, including communication, government affairs, policy writing, etc
- Career advancement in governance, advocacy, and public service
- Exclusive field visits to Washington, D.C. institutions and Capitol Hill
Required Documents
Candidates need to submit the following documents:
- Current Resume/CV
- Unofficial Degree Transcript
- Answers to short questions
- One Recommendation letter
Also, Check:
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: February 27, 2026
- Result Decisions: March 27, 2026
How to Apply?
The application process for the Niskanen Summer Institute is online via offical portal. Individuals meeting the required criteria need to visit the offical link below and click on “Apply Here” to start with your application.
