NASA offers some of the most prestigious internships and fellowship programs in the world, giving students the chance to work alongside top researchers and contribute to groundbreaking projects. For international students, NASA provides unique opportunities to gain hands-on experience, engage in research, and promote global collaboration in the field of space exploration.
If you are looking for NASA internships for international students 2025, in this article we provide you complete guide with details on programs, eligibility, benefits, and how to apply. Read this article carefully before applying.
NASA Internships & Fellowships: Overview
1. NASA International Internship (NASA I²) Program
The NASA I² program allows international students from countries that have signed the Artemis Accords to work on NASA research projects. Students can explore multiple research areas, including:
- Aeronautics
- Earth Science
- Heliophysics
- Planetary Science
- Space Technology
This program enhances cross-border collaboration and gives students first-hand experience in space-related research.
2. NASA Postdoctoral Program (NPP)
Designed for recent Ph.D. graduates, the NPP program provides a two-year fellowship at NASA research centers in the United States. Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend
- Travel allowance
- Research support
This program is ideal for early-career researchers looking to advance their expertise in space science and engineering.
3. NASA Earth and Space Science Fellowship (NESSF)
The NESSF program supports graduate students pursuing research in earth and space sciences. Students can receive funding for up to three years, including:
- Stipend support
- Tuition allowance
- Research-related benefits
Eligibility Criteria
The eligibility for NASA internships and fellowships varies by program, but general requirements include:
- Must be a citizen of a country that has signed the Artemis Accords.
- Enrolled in a degree-granting institution or graduated within the past year.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 scale.
- Completed at least one year of undergraduate study.
- For NPP: Ph.D. completed within the last 3 years.
- For NESSF: Master’s or Bachelor’s degree completed within the last 3 years.
- A research proposal aligned with NASA’s research priorities (for NESSF).
Note: Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance, as the selection process is highly competitive.
How to Apply for NASA Internships (Country-wise Contacts)
International students cannot apply directly to NASA. Instead, they must apply through their country’s partner space agency or designated contact.
- Australia: Victorian Space Science Education Center (VSSEC) – Danielle Shean (danielle.shean@vssec.vic.edu.au)
- Brazil: Brazilian Space Agency (AEB) – Nadia Sacenco (ouvidoria@aeb.gov.br)
- Israel: Israel Space Agency (ISA) – Adi Ninio (AdiN.ext@most.gov.il)
- Jordan: Crown Prince Foundation – info@cpf.jo
- Mexico: Mexican Space Agency (AEM) – Carlos Duarte (estanciasacademicas@aem.gob.mx)
- New Zealand: Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment – Dimitri Geidelberg (nzspaceagency@mbie.govt.nz)
- Norway: Norwegian Space Center – Pål Brekke (paal.brekke@spaceagency.no)
- South Korea: Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI) – Jeongwon Lee (garden@kari.re.kr)
- UAE: UAE Space Agency – spaceducation@space.gov.ae
FAQ – NASA Internships for International Students
Q1: How can I apply for NASA internship opportunities?
Ans: Visit the NASA OSSI (One Stop Shopping Initiative) portal or apply through your country’s partner agency.
Q2: Do international students get stipends?
Ans: Yes. Most programs offer stipends, travel allowances, and research funding depending on the program.
Q3: Can students from any country apply?
Ans: No. Only students from countries that have signed the Artemis Accords and have an active agreement with NASA are eligible.
Q4: Do these programs accept remote participation?
Ans: Some research areas may allow remote participation, but many require in-person work at NASA centers.
Q5: What is the deadline for NASA internships?
Ans: Deadlines vary by program. It’s best to check the official NASA internship page and your country’s partner agency website.
Why Apply for NASA Internships?
- Work with leading space scientists.
- Gain hands-on research experience.
- Boost your career in space science, aeronautics, or engineering.
- Be part of NASA’s international collaboration and contribute to space exploration.