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Policy Research Intern (Graduate Student)

AARP
AARP Salary
Washington, DC Intern
POSTED ON 4/14/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 5/13/2026
Overview

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.

AARP’s Policy, Research and International Affairs leads the development and communication of AARP’s public policies and, research and insights on the issues that matter to people 50-plus.

We are seeking a master’s-level graduate student pursuing a degree in public policy or a related field to provide research support to AARP’s Chief Public Policy Officer on topics related to longevity and aging. This paid internship offers an exciting opportunity to work with the largest social welfare organization in the country. It is an excellent way for a graduate student interested in public policy research to acquire hands-on experience as part of a committed, professional team with far-reaching impact. This paid internship has an anticipated start date of Summer 2026, with an option to continue throughout the year.

Responsibilities

Assist the Chief Public Policy Officer and her team in researching longevity, health care, retirement security, and other aging issues. The Policy Research Intern will

  • Analyze and summarize insights from primary sources
  • Conduct literature reviews
  • Synthesize research findings
  • Prepare issue and perspective summaries, briefings, and other background materials
  • Create and organize citations
  • Catalog facts, figures, and talking point documents, keeping them up to date and appropriately sourced
  • Contribute research and data content to speeches, talking points, social content, and other written materials
  • Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

  • Must be currently enrolled in a master’s-level degree program in public policy or a related field at an accredited college or university, and must remain academically enrolled throughout the internship
  • Possess excellent research, analytical, organizational, and communication skills
  • Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs
  • Familiarity with data visualization and infographic creation programs (e.g., Tableau) is preferred
  • Demonstrated ability to learn quickly and apply new skills; work independently as well as collaboratively in a team; manage multiple projects, anticipate project needs, discern work priorities, and work under tight deadlines
  • Ability to work well with diverse populations, including by gender, race, and sexual orientation

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.

Additional Requirements

  • Regular and reliable job attendance
  • Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
  • In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise

Hybrid Work Environment

AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.

Compensation And Benefits

The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, and $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.

Salary : $18 - $28

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