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DOE Scholars Program Overview
The DOE Scholars Program at the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Policy (OP) offers paid opportunities for high school students, undergraduate students, graduate students, and recent graduates to learn about policy analysis projects across various focus areas. These areas include Domestic Energy Policy, Power Sector, Critical Minerals and Materials, Artificial Intelligence, Energy Jobs, Permitting, and Nuclear. Under the mentorship of DOE/OP experts and subject matter leaders, participants will contribute to projects that involve technical report writing, data collection and analysis, and utilizing collaboration tools and AI technologies.

Why Apply?

• Gain exposure to world-class research, data analytics, and artificial intelligence applications within OP.
• Learn directly from leading policymakers and industry experts.
• Enhance your readiness for careers in science, technology, research, and policy.
• Build long-term professional relationships with DOE/OP subject matter experts.
• Access technical publications on the latest energy policy and business developments.

Program Benefits

• Stipends: Full-time participants receive stipends starting at $750, based on academic level. Part-time appointments may also be available.
• Travel Reimbursement: Participants residing over 50 miles from their assigned hosting site may qualify for up to $1,000 in inbound and outbound travel reimbursement.
• Appointment Duration: Appointments typically last 7-10 weeks during the summer, with flexibility based on project needs and participant availability.
• Location: Opportunities may be offered at DOE Headquarters in Washington, D.C., DOE Field Offices, or other DOE sites nationwide. Appointments may be on-site or hybrid, depending on the project.

Application Requirements
A complete application includes:

• Profile Information
• Goals, Experiences, and Skills Relevant to the Program
• Resume (PDF format)
• Transcripts/Academic Records: Unofficial transcripts or academic records that include the institution name, student name, coursework, and grades. Ensure all sensitive information (e.g., Social Security numbers, student IDs, dates of birth) is removed before submission.
• Academic/Professional Recommendation: A recommendation from a professional who can attest to your abilities and potential for success. High school students may request recommendations from STEM teachers, principals, or curriculum coordinators. Recommendations must be submitted through Zintellect by the specified deadline.

All application materials must be submitted via Zintellect to be considered.

Nature of Appointment
Participants are not considered employees of ORISE, ORAU, DOE, or any other agency. Instead, they are affiliated with ORISE for the administration of their appointment under the ORISE Terms of Appointment.

Additional Information
Visit DOE Scholars Program Website for additional details or contact us at doescholars@orise.orau.gov.

The DOE Scholars Program offers multiple opportunities throughout the year, with varying eligibility requirements, benefits, and deadlines. Each opportunity requires a separate application.

Stay Connected
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Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a U.S. Citizen at the time of application.
• Be at least 16 years old at the time of application.
• Meet one of the following criteria:
  • Be a rising high school junior or senior for the 2026-2027 academic year (expected graduation in 2027 or 2028).
  • Have graduated high school during the 2024-2025 or 2025-2026 academic years and not yet enrolled in a degree-seeking program at accredited college or university.
  • Pursue or hold an undergraduate or graduate degree in a STEM discipline or a field supporting the OP mission to DOE for an affordable, reliable, secure energy economy.

• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: High School Diploma/GED, Associate's Degree, Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 months or currently pursuing.
• Discipline(s):
  • Business (11 )
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (12 )
  • Communications and Graphics Design (6 )
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (17 )
  • Earth and Geosciences (21 )
  • Engineering (29 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (14 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (51 )
  • Mathematics and Statistics (11 )
  • Other Non-Science & Engineering (13 )
  • Physics (16 )
  • Science & Engineering-related (2 )
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (30 )
• Age: Must be 16 years of age
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 120 month(s).