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.

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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

Politics & International Relations Internships

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

Coming Soon
2025 Politics Internships coming soon.

Register your interest

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.

Session 1: Introductions

Session 2: Research

Session 3: Feedback

Session 4: Presentations

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.

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.

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.

Juanita Sele-Matthew
Juanita Sele-Matthew

15, Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

CURRENT SCHOOL:
Meadowhall School

FUN FACT:
I don't eat red apples.

DREAM CAREER:
Dietician or Food Scientist

FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE:
Sainsbury's runs with Lampl House are the one thing I can never forget!

Eliah Cibambo
Eliah Cibambo

Age 17, Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

CURRENT SCHOOL:
Lycée Prince de Liège

FUN FACT:
I’m a big fan of languages and I often try to understand how dialects and languages influence each other throughout the world.

DREAM CAREER:
Anything that helps better people’s lives.

FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE:
Definitely the ball on boat!

Adela Jung Foncillas
Adela Jung Foncillas

Age 17, Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy

CURRENT SCHOOL:
FES Lörrach

FUN FACT:
I love Spain with all my heart.

DREAM CAREER:
Doctor

FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE:
Singing with all of St Thomas's House at the Talent Show!

Pippa Manning
Pippa Manning

Age 17, Experience Medicine Academy

CURRENT SCHOOL:
Nottingham Girls' High School

FUN FACT:
My favourite movie is 10 Things I Hate About You.

DREAM CAREER:
Dermatologist

FAVOURITE EXPERIENCE:
Ceilidh, and the Boat Ball.

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.”

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 interns who successfully complete one of our medicine internships will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement at the Graduation Ceremony upon programme completion.

Get a Letter of Recommendation

Interns who meet our criteria will be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their mentor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.

Join Our Ambassador Programme

Looking to go further? Join our exclusive one-year Ambassador Programme to develop networking, communication and leadership skills through monthly virtual sessions.

Your Questions,
Answered.

When will this year's topics be announced?

This year’s topics will be announced shortly. Please register here to stay up-to-date with the latest news!

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.

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