Brief Information
HCSS Internship 2026 applications are now open for international students interested in international security, governance, foreign policy, and strategic studies. The internship is hosted by the Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS) in the Netherlands and provides valuable professional experience through participation in real-world research projects.
Selected interns will work directly with research teams, contribute to publications, support events, and gain practical experience in a leading European think tank environment.
Key Dates & Details
- Program Name: HCSS General Internship Programme 2026
- Host Organization: Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS)
- Location: The Hague, Netherlands
- Internship Type: In-person
- Start Date: End of July – Mid-August 2026
- Duration: 6 Months Preferred
- Application Deadline: 5 July 2026
- Compensation: €675 per month
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week
- Eligible Applicants: University students currently enrolled throughout the internship period
- Visa Sponsorship: Not Available
- Fields: Security Studies, International Relations, Governance, Defense, Foreign Policy, Research
Table of Contents
Overview
The HCSS Internship 2026 offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical experience within one of Europe’s leading strategic research institutes. Based in The Hague, HCSS conducts research on international security, geopolitical developments, defense policy, governance, technology, and global power shifts.
Interns become active members of project teams and contribute directly to ongoing research initiatives. Responsibilities may include:
- Conducting background research
- Data collection and analysis
- Drafting reports and policy papers
- Supporting conferences and workshops
- Assisting with administrative and project-related tasks
- Contributing to strategic research projects
The internship serves as an excellent stepping stone for careers in government, international organizations, think tanks, academia, consulting, and the private sector.
Participants also benefit from networking opportunities with researchers, policymakers, and international experts.
HCSS Internship 2026 Eligibility
To apply for the HCSS Internship 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Academic Requirements
- Must be enrolled at a university throughout the entire internship period
- Strong academic record
- Excellent analytical and writing skills
- Strong English communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Research experience
- Previous internship or work experience
- Quantitative research skills
- Knowledge of R or Python
- Additional language skills
Important Eligibility Conditions
Applicants are not eligible if:
- They are not enrolled as students during the internship period
- They lack legal authorization to study or work in the Netherlands
- They have university classes exceeding four hours per week during the internship
- They cannot commit to full-time, in-person participation
HCSS does not provide visa sponsorship or immigration support. Candidates must already possess the necessary documentation before applying.
Application Details
Applicants must submit the following documents as a single PDF file:
- Curriculum Vitae (including at least two references)
- Cover Letter
- Proof of University Enrollment
- Academic Transcripts
- One-page Writing Sample
The writing sample should answer one of the questions provided in the official call regarding Dutch security, foreign policy, or European defense developments.
Submission Method
Send your application to:
Subject Line:
General Internship /2026
Application Deadline
5 July 2026 (12:00 PM)
Applications are reviewed after the deadline, and successful candidates will be invited for interviews approximately 2–3 weeks later.
FAQ
1. Is the HCSS Internship 2026 paid?
Yes. Interns receive a monthly compensation of €675.
2. Can recent graduates apply?
No. Applicants must remain enrolled as university students throughout the internship period.
3. Is visa sponsorship available?
No. HCSS does not provide visa sponsorship or immigration assistance.
4. Is the internship remote?
No. The internship is conducted fully in person at the HCSS office in The Hague.
Official Link
Apply through the official HCSS internship announcement:
Additional information about HCSS:
The Hague Centre for Strategic Studies (HCSS)
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