Internship Program

Update on the NPAF Summer Internship Program

Please note that NPAF will not have a summer internship program for the 2026 season. We appreciate the interest from students and advocates across the country and encourage you to stay connected with our work by signing up for our newsletter or following us on social media (@NPAForg) for future opportunities and grassroots initiatives.

Should you like to explore volunteer opportunities with us, we invite you to join our volunteer network.

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National Patient Advocate Foundation’s (NPAF’s) summer internship program provides college or graduate students with a unique learning experience to better understand the challenges impacting patients and caregivers today, while also exploring the opportunities to build a more equitable health care system through policy and advocacy.

Students will be assigned special projects that will advance our work and include presentations to staff as well as creating resources and other content to support our various communities.

We are not accepting applications for summer 2026. Please check back early next year for applications for summer 2027.

If you have additional questions, review the FAQs below or send us a note at internships@npaf.org. Please include in your subject line “INQUIRY” so staff know to prioritize your email.

Who can apply to the internship program?

The internship program is open to students at an accredited college or university across all majors. The ideal candidate will possess an interest in health policy, public health, and grassroots advocacy.

Am I required to be on-site or will this be a virtual opportunity?

This will be a virtual experience only.

What orientation or training is provided?

Half-day onboarding training session in which we will review our mission, policy priorities and current advocacy efforts.

Additionally, interns may participate in one-on-one meetings with various staff to understand their roles in the organization.

Who will supervise/mentor me?

Your preceptor will be dependent on your selected “track.”

How will I be exposed to individuals with diverse perspectives and experiences? (i.e., peers, staff, leadership, health care partners, community members, etc.)

Interns will be an integral part of our team working closely with NPAF staff including organizational leaders and other policy and advocacy colleagues. As such, interns will have the opportunity to join meetings or activities with partners and advocates.

How and when will I receive feedback on my performance?

Interns will report their progress and receive performance feedback verbally on a regular basis. During presentations, interns will receive real-time feedback from the NPAF team. A more formal, written review may be provided by the preceptor at the mid-point of the internship, and then at the end.

How long will the internship program last?

Typically, the internship will last ten weeks.

Will I receive a stipend?

Yes, a stipend will be available to all interns.

How do I apply?

We are not accepting applications for the summer 2026 season.

I have additional questions, who can I contact?

You may send additional questions to internships@npaf.org. Please include in your subject line “INQUIRY” so staff know to prioritize your email.