How to Get an Internship at NASA’s (JPL)
NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Southern California is one of the world’s leading centers for robotic space exploration. Every year, JPL welcomes around 1,000 interns from colleges and universities across the United States to work on real projects — from designing spacecraft and analyzing planetary data to developing software, studying climate change, and supporting mission operations.
Competition is high, with thousands of applications received annually. Here’s a complete guide based on official JPL advice on how to prepare, apply, and stand out.
What Kind of Internships Does JPL Offer?
Most internships are in STEM fields (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), but opportunities also exist in areas such as communications, business, finance, design, and writing.
Interns contribute to actual mission work and research rather than purely administrative tasks. Projects can involve:
- Building and testing spacecraft systems
- Software development for space exploration
- Data analysis from planetary missions
- Astrobiology and Earth science research
- Mission design, operations support, and more
Eligibility Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a college undergraduate or graduate program
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (3.5 preferred for some programs)
- U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status (required for most programs)
- Ability to commit to a minimum of 10 weeks
Note: High school students are generally not eligible for standard JPL internships. International students may have limited options through the JPL Visiting Student Research Program.
When and How to Apply
JPL offers internships year-round, with the largest number of openings in the summer (full-time, 40 hours per week). Part-time opportunities are also available during the academic year.
- Recommended timeline for summer internships: Apply by November or December of the previous year. Decisions are often announced by April.
- Unlike many companies, you typically apply to a program rather than a specific job posting. Mentors then review applications and select candidates who best match their projects.
- Main application portal: JPL Academic Engagement Office Internships
Key programs include:
- JPL Year-Round Internship Program
- JPL Summer Internship Program
- JPL Visiting Student Research Program (more open to international students)
You will need a resume and unofficial transcript. Keep your application updated so you can be considered for opportunities throughout the year.
What Skills and Qualities Do Mentors Look For?
While strong technical skills help, JPL mentors consistently emphasize soft skills and mindset:
- Problem-solving ability and resilience (grit)
- Teamwork and collaboration across disciplines
- Clear communication skills
- Genuine passion for learning and space exploration
- Initiative and a proactive attitude
Technical skills that stand out include coding (especially Python, MATLAB, and C), experience with tools like GIS, and any hands-on project work. Sharing a GitHub portfolio or personal project links can make a strong impression.
JPL values students who can learn quickly and contribute to a culture of experimentation — the same mindset that has driven the Laboratory since its early rocket experiments in the 1930s.
Tips to Stand Out and Improve Your Chances
- Build relevant experience early — Join clubs, take on personal projects, enter contests, learn coding or technical skills online, and seek research or lab opportunities.
- Network and seek mentors — Talk to professors, join relevant student organizations, and reach out to people working in fields that interest you.
- Tailor your resume — Highlight specific examples of problem-solving, teamwork, and leadership. Quantify achievements where possible.
- Show genuine interest — Follow JPL news, missions, and research. Mention specific projects or areas that excite you in your application or interview.
- Apply broadly and early — Submit applications to multiple relevant programs and keep materials current.
- Don’t count yourself out — Mentors look for potential and attitude more than perfect credentials. Many successful interns started with curiosity and determination rather than extensive experience.
Additional Opportunities
If you don’t qualify for standard JPL programs or are looking for broader NASA options, also consider:
- NASA Internships (across all NASA centers)
- JPL Postdoctoral positions (for recent PhD graduates)
- JPL Visiting Student Research Program
Final Advice
Getting an internship at JPL is competitive, but it is achievable with preparation, persistence, and a clear demonstration of curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving ability. Start building your skills and experience now, apply thoughtfully, and stay open to learning.
- Visit the official page and explore current programs
Apply Now an Internship at JPL.
