NASA Pathways Internship Program 2027: Launch Your Career with NASA Through the Spring 2027 Internship

Overview

The NASA Pathways Internship Program gives students multi-semester professional experience at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, designed as a career-development pathway that can lead to employment after graduation. NASA recruits Pathways interns for long-term potential and alignment with its future workforce needs. Participants work with NASA to create an Individual Development Plan that sets assignments, training and learning opportunities tied to their career goals.

What you get

Interns receive meaningful assignments related to their academic or career interests, learning and professional growth opportunities, exposure to NASA's work environment and culture, training, and a path toward clearly defined career goals. As graduation approaches, NASA may consider interns for permanent employment or term employment lasting one to six years without a further job application. This is not an automatic guarantee of a job.

Who can apply

Pathways recruits students in fields including engineering, physical sciences, business, communications, administration, information technology, mathematics and statistics. Listed occupational classifications include engineering, physical sciences, safety and occupational health, social sciences, human resources, administration and program management, accounting and budget, communication and public relations, procurement and contracts, mathematics and statistics, and information technology. The disciplines recruited vary by cycle and depend on the vacancies posted. NASA looks for well-rounded students from varied backgrounds who are drawn to its mission and show qualities such as curiosity, team orientation, excellence, passion for exploration, agility and resilience.

How to apply

Applications are made through USAJOBS, and links to the relevant vacancies are added to the Spring 2027 position listings when applications open. Applicants should research positions and NASA center locations beforehand to match their major, interests and preferred location.

Key dates

The Spring 2027 application window opens on September 21, 2026 and closes on September 25, 2026. Internships begin on January 25, 2027.