Contact
Apply

Online Politics
& International Relations Internships

Summer 2025 | For Ages 15-18

Are you passionate about global affairs and considering a degree in politics or international relations?

Join an online International Relations & Politics research internship to explore geopolitical issues, co-author a research paper and publish your work in an academic journal. Learn from an expert mentor to boost your applications to university.

Apply Today

Trusted by 7,000+ Global Alumni

See All Reviews

4.9

star

Average Rating

850+

Verified Reviews

99%

Would Recommend

Key Facts

Internship Location:
Online via Zoom

Intern Ages:
15-18 year olds

Group Size:
Max 15 interns

Internship Dates:
June – August 2025

Mentor Profile:
Typically Oxford and
Cambridge academics

Tuition Fees:
£995 per intern

Time Commitment:
One month (4 sessions)
Every Saturday or Sunday

Live Hours:
12 hours of live mentoring

Graduation Takeaways:
Letter of Recommendation &
Certificate of Achievement

OSA Accreditations:
King’s Award for Enterprise

Apply Today

Politics & International Relations Internships

Discover the cutting-edge political and global affairs topics you could explore in your research internship this summer.

Climate Diplomacy

Climate diplomacy is a critical area in international relations, addressing the urgent need for global cooperation to combat climate change. This field involves negotiating complex agreements and policies that have profound environmental, economic, and social impacts worldwide.

In this month-long internship, you will delve into the mechanisms of climate diplomacy, exploring how nations negotiate, implement, and enforce international agreements aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate change impacts. You will also examine the role of non-state actors, such as multinational corporations and NGOs, in shaping these international policies. Your research will contribute to understanding how diplomatic efforts can be optimised to address one of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Supported by your Mentor, you’ll collaborate with your fellow interns to co-author an academic research paper for publication on this cutting-edge topic.

Please note that due to the nature of this internship, places are extremely limited.

What to Expect on Your Internship

You’ll meet with your mentor for a three-hour session every week on a Saturday or Sunday.
Here’s what to expect from each session.

Introductions
Research
Feedback
Presentation
Session #1:

Introductions

In the first session, you will:

  • Meet your mentor and your fellow interns
  • Be introduced to the topic by your mentor, and start to narrow down the focus of your research
  • Learn how to conduct research, including how to read, analyse and summarise the existing research
  • Split into small groups of 3-4 with your fellow interns and consider how to divide the research between the group

In between Sessions 1 and 2, you’ll do background reading on the topic, begin your own research and start making notes on your findings.

Session #2:

Learn How To Research

In this session, you will:

  • Learn how to structure and write a research paper and how to cite references
  • Discuss your background research with your mentor and fellow interns, and ask any questions that came up during your preliminary reading
  • In your small group, decide on a research question
  • Draft a plan for your paper, divide responsibility for the sections between the group and begin the formal research process

In between Sessions 2 and 3, you’ll make progress with your own research and keep detailed notes.

Session #3:

Get Feedback

In this session, you will:

  • Discuss your findings with your mentor and fellow interns
  • Decide on the key themes of your argument in the research paper and begin to formalise your notes
  • Ask your mentor any questions which have arisen from your research
  • Review your fellow interns' work so far

In between Sessions 3 and 4, you’ll write up the bulk of your section of the research paper, with feedback from your mentor.

Session #4:

Present Your Findings

In the last session, it all comes together! You will:

  • Combine your section of the research paper with that of the rest of your group, and write the introduction and conclusion
  • Review your fellow interns' work, and receive feedback on yours
  • Present your findings to the wider group
  • Complete the bibliography and finalise the structure and formatting of your paper, ready for submission to the OxJournal editorial board

Meet Your Mentor

Arushi Sharan

BA Hons, Master’s Diploma, MA, DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Arushi is currently a DPhil candidate in International Development at the University of Oxford and an Abdul Rauphu Mustafa Scholar. She holds a Master of Arts with Distinction in Political Science from Jawaharlal Nehru University and a Master’s Diploma in Conflict Transformation and Peace Building.

Arushi has worked as a teaching fellow in Comparative Politics at Ashoka University and as a research guide with the Chief Minister’s Good Governance Associates Programme in India. Her research on policy and governance has been published in reputed academic journals.

During your internship, you’ll work closely with a mentor – an experienced academic in your field. Please note: Our faculty members may be subject to change.

Apply Today

Why Take a Politics & International Relations Internship?

Build your expertise, develop key skills and connect with like-minded students as you explore the world of political research.

Master Key Political Concepts
Deepen your political knowledge through a comprehensive research internship that explores current affairs, critical topics in international relations and the future of politics. Take part in in-depth analysis, case studies and guided research to develop a strong foundation in politics and its real-world applications.
Develop Professional Skills
Gain real experience by attending expert-led sessions, working closely with your mentor and co-authoring a research paper with your fellow interns. Enhance key skills such as academic writing, critical thinking, project management and effective communication – preparing you for future studies and a career in politics.
Collaborate with Future Leaders
Join a diverse network of aspiring political professionals from around the world. Work together on research projects, participate in discussions, and develop essential cross-cultural communication and teamwork skills – crucial for success in the global political field.

Become a Published Author

On an International Relations & Politics internship, you’ll work closely with an academic researcher and collaborate with like-minded interns from around the world.

You’ll co-author and publish a political research paper in an academic journal, gaining hands-on experience in university-level research. Not only will you deepen your understanding of global affairs, but you’ll also strengthen your CV and prove your passion for politics to university admissions tutors.

Learn More

Build an International Network

Join a vibrant global community of passionate, curious and motivated young individuals just like you.
Our interns are eager to elevate their academic ambitions and seize their future.

Adela Jung Foncillas
Adela Jung Foncillas

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: FES Lörrach

COURSE: Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has given me the confidence to determine my own future. I learned to step out of my comfort zone and try incredible new things, even when they seemed scary at first. I've also had the amazing opportunity to build a network of kind and open-minded people, all from different countries.
Alfonso Feris
Alfonso Feris

AGE: 16

SCHOOL: Colegio Los Pininos

COURSE: Experience Engineering Academy

 

 
One thing I have learned at Oxford Scholastica is how to become better at making new friends. I am usually regarded as an introverted person, but here, in less than two weeks, I have made friends as close as brothers. I am sure our friendship will last a lifetime!
Juanita Sele-Matthew
Juanita Sele-Matthew

AGE: 15

SCHOOL: Meadowhall School

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars. The programme has really opened my eyes to what I want my life to look like. I've learned academic skills but also social and emotional skills, like how to network, how to live away from home and how to make new friends.
Pippa Manning
Pippa Manning

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Nottingham Girls High School

COURSE: Experience Medicine Academy

 

 
I have found the classes so insightful and interesting and have learnt more about Medicine than I ever have in school, as well as new topics I had never considered. I'm sure this knowledge will be invaluable in my application to medical school and it has made me feel much more confident in my own abilities.
Shanaya Ailsinghani
Shanaya Ailsinghani

AGE: 15

SCHOOL: GEMS Dubai American Academy

COURSE: Experience Medicine Academy

 

 
I have benefitted a lot from Oxford Scholastica. I have developed my social skills, especially learning how to interact with others outside of a formal setting like school, and gained a lot of confidence. The programme has also given me much more clarity about my potential future career options.

Hear from a Graduate

Lauren Brodsky

Online Politics & Debate Course

“Studying the online Politics & Debate course at Oxford Scholastica has allowed me to connect with other young people from different cultures and backgrounds. Debating important topics with my classmates has broadened my perspective and increased my understanding of the world around me.”

Apply Today

Strengthen Your University Application

You’ll leave with a Certificate of Achievement, a Letter of Recommendation and the opportunity to join our Ambassador Programme – all designed to help your application stand out to top-tier universities.



Earn a Certificate of Achievement
All students who successfully complete the course will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.
Get a Letter of Recommendation
Students who meet our criteria will be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.
Join Our Ambassador Programme

Want to continue learning? Apply for our one-year Ambassador Programme to gain valuable skills in marketing, networking, entrepreneurship and more. With monthly virtual meetings, you'll develop practical skills to shape your future.

Politics & International Relations Internship Availability

Each Politics internship runs for a month with live sessions over four weekends.
We’re also adding new internships regularly – register here to stay updated on future opportunities.

Politics Internship Options

Climate Diplomacy: 5th-26th July 2025

Apply Today
What’s Included in Your Tuition Fee

EXPERIENCE

  • 12 hours of mentorship
  • Explore a cutting-edge topic
  • Co-author a research paper
  • Publish your work in an academic journal
NETWORKING

  • Work closely with an expert mentor
  • Collaborate with fellow interns
  • Dedicated support and guidance
  • Build an international network
GRADUATION

  • Graduation ceremony
  • Letter of Recommendation
  • Certificate of Achievement
  • Ambassador programme invitation

One Month Internships:

£995

Your Questions,
Answered.

Still need help? Book a Call
How do I apply for a Politics & International Relations internship?

To apply, simply fill out our application form . We accept interns who are passionate about their field, eager to make a meaningful contribution and enthusiastic about learning.

How early should I apply?

There is no fixed deadline as we assess applications on a rolling basis until we’re full. We have a limited number of places which tend to become fully booked early in the year, especially for our more popular internships. You can view our availability on our application form.

What do you do in a virtual internship?

During one of our online research internships, you’ll collaborate with a small group of peers to research a cutting-edge topic in academia. You’ll meet with your mentor each week to co-author a research paper contributing to the latest developments in your chosen field.

What time will the sessions with my mentor take place?

We have internships running at various times to suit different time zones around the world, meaning you can choose an internship that fits your schedule best. Depending on your choice, your sessions will run on a Saturday or Sunday at 12pm-3pm, 2pm-5pm or 4pm-7pm BST.

Do I need any special software or equipment to join my internship?
No special equipment is needed—just a quiet workspace and a reliable internet connection. We’ll provide the necessary software to connect with your team and Mentor.
Are online internships good for resumes?

Yes, our online internships provide high school students the chance to engage with university-level research at an early stage in their careers. You’ll learn from experts, gain valuable skills in your field of choice and have the chance to co-author an academic paper for publication, providing a competitive edge in your university applications and the wider job market.

Who will my mentor be?

Your mentor will be an academic researcher with expertise in your chosen field. They’ll guide you and your fellow interns through the internship, helping to structure your ideas, providing personalised feedback and supporting you in writing your research paper.

What will I get at the end of the internship?

Upon successful completion of the programme, you’ll receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement and a personalised Letter of Recommendation to include in your university applications. Additionally, your research paper will be submitted for publication in an online academic journal under your name – a remarkable accomplishment, both academically and professionally.

Related Programmes & Resources

See what other Politics & International Relations programmes we offer below.
And check out relevant articles on our blog to help you level up your academics.

Politics Course in Oxford
Passionate about politics? This summer, experience first-hand what it’s like to study the subject at university. Join us in Oxford to examine global governments and refine your own leadership skills.
Learn More
Articles About Politics & International Relations

We have hundreds of articles written by university students studying your subject. Uncover the history of the League of Nations and explore our top book recommendations for politics students.

Learn More
Online Politics & International Relations Courses
How do we navigate the greatest challenges facing our world? Our online Politics summer courses will introduce you to key concepts in politics and international relations. Seize your future today!
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More
Learn More