Google Policy Fellowship 2026: $12,000 Paid Summer Internship for Students – Apply by April 9

The Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026 is an exciting opportunity for students interested in technology policy, internet governance, and public policy. Each year, Google partners with leading organizations across the United States to provide students with hands-on experience working on important policy issues that shape the future of the internet and technology.

The fellowship allows participants to collaborate with policy experts, research digital policy challenges, and contribute to meaningful projects while gaining professional experience in the public policy field. Applications for the Summer 2026 Google Policy Fellowship are currently open, and interested students must submit their applications before April 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM ET.

This article provides a complete overview of the fellowship, including eligibility requirements, application process, fellowship structure, and key benefits.

About the Google Policy Fellowship

The Google Policy Fellowship is designed for students who are passionate about public policy and the role technology plays in shaping modern society. The program provides fellows with an opportunity to work directly with public interest organizations that focus on internet policy issues such as:

• Digital rights and freedom of expression
• Artificial intelligence governance
• Online safety and cybersecurity
• Data privacy and consumer protection
• Broadband access and digital inclusion
• Competition policy in technology markets

During the fellowship period, participants work alongside experts and professionals who influence policies affecting the digital ecosystem. Fellows gain practical exposure to policy development, research, and advocacy in a professional environment.

This experience is especially valuable for students pursuing careers in public policy, law, technology policy, economics, political science, and international relations.

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Fellowship Structure and Work Commitment

The Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026 is structured as a summer program that allows students to gain meaningful work experience while continuing their academic studies.

Selected fellows will work with one of Google’s partner host organizations on projects related to internet policy and technology governance.

Participants can choose between two commitment options:

• Full-time fellowship: 40 hours per week
• Part-time fellowship: 20 hours per week

This flexible structure allows students to balance the fellowship with other commitments if needed.

Many fellows work closely with policy teams to conduct research, write policy briefs, analyze legislation, or assist with advocacy campaigns. The fellowship also provides an opportunity to expand professional networks within the technology policy community.

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Eligibility Requirements

To participate in the Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria.

First, applicants must be current students. Google defines a student as an individual who is either enrolled in or accepted into an accredited educational institution. Eligible institutions include:

• Undergraduate programs
• Graduate or master’s programs
• PhD programs
• Accredited colleges and universities

Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited institution by August 30, 2026.

Another important requirement is that applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. This means that participants must already have the legal ability to work in the U.S. because Google cannot provide guidance or assistance in obtaining work authorization.

Students from various academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply as long as they demonstrate strong interest in internet policy and technology governance.

Application Process

Applying for the Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026 involves completing an online application form with several sections. The application is designed to gather personal, academic, and professional information about each candidate.

The application includes the following seven sections:

1. Personal Information

Applicants must provide basic personal details such as:

• Full name
• Email address
• Date of birth
• Street address
• City, state, zip code, and country

Applicants must also confirm whether they are eligible to work in the United States.

2. Current Education

In this section, applicants provide information about their academic background, including their university, program of study, and current enrollment status.

3. References

Applicants are required to list contact information for their references.

Importantly, references do not need to submit letters of recommendation during the application stage. However, Google’s partner organizations may contact references during the selection process if necessary.

4. Resume

Applicants must upload a current resume highlighting their academic background, relevant experiences, internships, research, or policy-related work.

A strong resume demonstrating interest in technology policy or public policy will help applicants stand out.

5. Organization Preferences

Applicants will have the opportunity to indicate which host organizations they would prefer to work with. These organizations typically focus on internet policy, digital rights, or technology regulation.

6. Personal Statement

The personal statement is one of the most important parts of the application.

Applicants should explain:

• Why they are interested in technology and internet policy
• Their career goals in public policy or digital governance
• What they hope to gain from the fellowship

A clear and compelling personal statement helps reviewers understand an applicant’s passion and potential impact.

7. Final Submission

After completing all sections, applicants must review their responses and submit the form through the final confirmation page.

Applicants should note that the application will not be saved until it is officially submitted. Because of this, Google recommends preparing all required materials beforehand and submitting the application in one session.

Important Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026 is April 9, 2026 at 12:00 PM Eastern Time (ET).

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning early submission may improve an applicant’s chances of being considered.

Since the form does not automatically save progress, applicants are strongly encouraged to gather all required information and documents before starting the application.

Location and Remote Participation

Many fellows traditionally work in Washington, D.C., which is a major hub for policy organizations and government institutions.

However, the application also asks applicants whether they will be located in Washington, D.C. during the summer. If not, they may indicate their expected location.

Depending on the host organization and project structure, some fellows may be able to participate from other cities.

Professional Development Opportunities

The Google Policy Fellowship offers more than just work experience. It also provides valuable opportunities for professional development.

Fellows gain exposure to:

• Policy research and analysis
• Legislative and regulatory processes
• Advocacy strategies and campaigns
• Technology governance discussions
• Collaboration with policy professionals

Participants often attend policy discussions, seminars, and networking events that help them understand the broader landscape of technology regulation and digital rights.

These experiences can significantly strengthen a student’s resume and prepare them for careers in public policy or technology governance.

Why This Fellowship Matters

Technology increasingly shapes every aspect of modern society. Issues such as artificial intelligence regulation, data privacy, online safety, and digital competition require thoughtful policy solutions.

Programs like the Google Policy Fellowship help prepare the next generation of leaders who will work on these challenges.

By participating in the fellowship, students gain real-world insights into how policy decisions affect the digital world and how organizations advocate for responsible technology development.

Final Thoughts

The Google Policy Fellowship Summer 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students who want to explore careers in technology policy, internet governance, or public policy.

With hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and mentorship from policy professionals, the fellowship provides valuable exposure to real policy work. Students interested in shaping the future of technology and digital regulation should strongly consider applying.

Since applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, students are encouraged to prepare their materials early and submit before the April 9, 2026 deadline.

For additional questions about the program, applicants may contact the Google Policy Fellowship team directly.