NASA Internships 2027: Eligibility, Stipend & How to Apply
Want to work on real NASA projects while you're still a student? NASA Internships 2027 can give students practical experience in science, engineering, technology and other fields.
NASA offers two major student internship programs: OSTEM Internships and Pathways Internships. Both provide students with opportunities to work with NASA teams and gain valuable professional experience.
Spring 2027 OSTEM: September 14, 2026
Summer 2027 OSTEM: February 26, 2027
Fall 2027 OSTEM: May 21, 2027
What Are NASA Internships?
NASA internships allow students to gain hands-on experience while working with NASA mentors on projects related to the agency's mission.
The main programs are OSTEM and Pathways. OSTEM generally provides short-term project-based experiences, while Pathways is a longer-term program designed to prepare students for potential careers with NASA.
NASA OSTEM Internship 2027
The NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers paid internship opportunities for students interested in working on NASA-related projects.
NASA offers three OSTEM internship sessions each year. The majority of interns receive a stipend based on their academic level and the duration of the internship.
NASA Internship Eligibility
Current OSTEM requirements include:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Be enrolled in an eligible certificate or degree program.
- Attend an eligible U.S. educational institution if required by the program.
- Have a field of study relevant to available NASA opportunities.
NASA offers opportunities in both STEM and selected non-STEM fields, depending on available projects.
Is the NASA Internship Paid?
Yes. NASA states that the majority of OSTEM interns receive a stipend. The amount depends on factors such as academic level and internship session.
There is no single stipend amount that applies to every NASA internship, so applicants should check the individual opportunity for current compensation information.
NASA Internships 2027 Deadlines
| Internship Session | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Spring 2027 | September 14, 2026 |
| Summer 2027 | February 26, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | May 21, 2027 |
The published deadlines are listed in Eastern Time. Always check the official NASA website for the latest information before applying.
NASA Pathways Internship 2027
The NASA Pathways Internship is different from OSTEM. It is a multi-semester program designed to give students longer-term experience and potentially lead to employment with NASA after graduation.
NASA states that the next Pathways application cycle opens in Fall 2026 for Spring and Summer 2027 opportunities.
Pathways Eligibility
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be at least 16 years old.
- Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at least half-time.
- Be pursuing an eligible degree or certificate.
- Maintain at least a 2.9 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
- Be able to complete the required work hours before finishing your degree.
Individual Pathways positions may have additional requirements.
What Can You Work On?
NASA internships cover much more than rockets and space missions. Depending on the available opportunity, students may work in areas such as:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Robotics
- Earth Science
- Space Science
- Aeronautics
- Business
- Communications
How to Apply for NASA Internships 2027
1. Find an Internship
Visit NASA's official internship portal and search for opportunities that match your education, skills and interests.
2. Create Your Profile
OSTEM applications are submitted through NASA's STEM Gateway. Keep your education, skills, projects and experience information accurate and complete.
3. Prepare Your Application
Highlight relevant coursework, projects, technical skills, leadership activities and other experience that matches the internship.
4. Apply Before the Deadline
Submit your application before the applicable session deadline. Avoid waiting until the last day in case you need to correct information.
5. Check Your Email
NASA mentors may contact selected candidates for interviews or additional information. Keep checking the email address associated with your application.
How to Improve Your Chances
- Maintain a strong GPA.
- Build projects related to your field.
- Develop practical technical skills.
- Read each internship description carefully.
- Highlight relevant experience clearly.
- Apply to opportunities that genuinely match your background.
- Start preparing well before the deadline.
Can International Students Apply?
For the current NASA OSTEM and Pathways programs, applicants must generally be U.S. citizens.
NASA also states that its International Internship program is not currently being offered. International students should therefore check NASA's official website for other available student programs and opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are NASA internships paid?
Yes. The majority of OSTEM interns receive a stipend, with the amount depending on academic level and internship duration.
What GPA is required for NASA OSTEM?
The current OSTEM requirement is a cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
What is the minimum age for NASA OSTEM?
Applicants must be at least 16 years old.
Can non-STEM students apply?
Yes. NASA offers some internship opportunities for non-STEM majors, depending on available positions.
When is the Summer 2027 NASA internship deadline?
The current OSTEM deadline for Summer 2027 is February 26, 2027.
When does NASA Pathways open?
NASA says the next Pathways cycle opens in Fall 2026 for Spring and Summer 2027 opportunities.
Final Takeaway
NASA Internships 2027 can be an excellent opportunity for students looking for real-world experience in engineering, technology, science and other fields.
If you're interested in the Spring 2027 OSTEM program, the first important deadline is September 14, 2026. Start preparing your profile, projects and application early.
Always verify the latest eligibility requirements and individual internship details on NASA's official website before applying.

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