U.S. Embassy Lesotho
Student Internship Program
Now Accepting Applications
Application Deadline: 16 January 2026 (11:59 PM)
The U.S. Embassy in Maseru invites applications from eligible Basotho students for the U.S. Embassy Lesotho Student Internship Program. This program provides students with valuable educational experience in foreign affairs while supporting the work of the U.S. Embassy in Lesotho.
The U.S. Department of State is committed to equal opportunity and fair and equitable treatment of all applicants without regard to race, color, ethnicity, sex, religion, age, sexual orientation, disabling condition, political affiliation, marital status, or prior protected activity.
Program Overview
The Foreign National Student Internship Program is open to Lesotho citizen students seeking internships with the U.S. Embassy Maseru.
The program:
- Runs for approximately three (3) months
- Is unpaid and carries no future employment rights
- Offers hands-on experience in foreign policy, public engagement, administration, and management
- Provides exposure to the work of the U.S. Department of State and partner U.S. government agencies
Definition of Student
For the purpose of this program, a student is an individual who:
- Is enrolled at least half-time in a technical or vocational institute, college, university, or comparable institution; or
- Is a recent graduate (not more than 12 months prior to application)
Students on an interim break of not more than five (5) months remain eligible if they demonstrate intent to resume studies.
Types of Internship Assignments
Interns are placed based on their interests, qualifications, and Embassy needs. Duties may include:
- Research and analysis
- Political and economic reporting
- Event planning and public engagement
- Social media and communications support
- Administrative and office support
Internships may be offered in the following areas:
- Executive Office
- Political-Economic Section
- Foreign Assistance Office
- Public Diplomacy
- American Corner Maseru
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following:
Nationality
- Must be a citizen of Lesotho
Age
- Between 18 and 35 years
Student Status
- Current university (or equivalent) student in good academic standing, or
- Graduate within the last 12 months
- Current students must submit written permission from their academic institution
Availability
- Must be available during U.S. Embassy working hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM – 5:15 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- No transport stipend is provided; interns are responsible for their own transportation
Conduct & Certification
- Must obtain required security and medical clearances
- Individuals with criminal convictions, drug-related offenses, or prior abuse of U.S. visas or funding are not eligible
Important Conditions
- This internship is unpaid
- This is not U.S. government employment
- No benefits are provided (no leave, health insurance, allowances, or transport)
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted by email only.
Hard copy, mailed, or hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
Submit a complete application package including:
- Completed, signed, and dated application form
- Statement of interest
- Skills and language self-assessment
- Academic transcript
- Academic institution permission letter (for current students)
- Signed gratuitous service agreement
Email applications to:
[email protected]
Deadline:
11:59 PM, 16 January 2026
Application Checklist
Ensure your application includes:
- Application form (completed and signed)
- Statement of interest
- Skills and language self-assessment
- Academic institution permission letter (if applicable)
- Gratuitous service agreement
- Academic transcript
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. English proficiency will be assessed during the interview process.
For inquiries:
[email protected]
Now accepting applications for the U.S. Embassy Lesotho Student Internship Program through 16 January 2026.