The Native American Congressional Internship Program provides American Indian and Alaska Native students with the opportunity to gain practical experience with the Federal legislative process in order to understand first-hand the government-to-government relationship between Tribes and the Federal Government. The Internship Program is comanaged by the Udall Foundation and the Native Nations Institute for Leadership, Management, and Policy, a program of the Udall Center for Studies in Public Policy at The University of Arizona.

The Internship Program honors the legacies of Morris K. Udall and Stewart L. Udall, whose careers had a significant impact on American Indian self-governance and health care, as well as the stewardship of public lands and natural resources.

Who can apply?

• Enrolled students OR recent graduates of a two or four-year accredited, non-profit institution of higher education in the United States. Graduate and law students are also eligible. Applicants must have completed at least two years of undergraduate coursework.

How does the Udall Foundation define Native American?

• For the purposes of the Internship Program, a Native American or Alaska Native is any individual who is:
• U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents who are members of either State- or Federall-recognized Tribes
• Descendants of U.S. citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents who are members of either State- or Federall-recognized Tribes;
• Those considered by the Secretary of the Interior to be an Indian for any purpose; and
• Alaska Natives.

What kind of documents are required to prove Tribal enrollment or descendancy?

• Applicants must submit copies of relevant enrollment forms, cards, and/or descent documentation such as a Certificate of Degree of Indian or Alaska Native Blood. Descendants of enrolled Tribal members must provide proof of their parent's or grandparent's enrollment and birth certificates that demonstrate the applicant's relationship to the enrolled tribal member. Applicants who are members of the First Nations of Canada must submit proof of U.S. permanent residency. Applicants who cannot demonstrate Tribal enrollment and do not have a CDIB should obtain a letter from a Tribal leader to demonstrate their involvement in the Tribal community.

My Tribe does not have Federal recognition. Am I eligible to apply?

• Yes, applicants from State-recognized Tribes are eligible for the Udall Internship.

I am not an enrolled member of a State or Federally recognized Tribe. May I still apply?

• If you are not currently on your Tribal roll, and do not have a CDIB, you may provide proof of a parent or grandparent's enrollment and copies of birth certificates demonstrating your relationship.

I am Native Hawaiian. Am I eligible for the Internship?

• No, at this time Native Hawaiians are not eligible.