The Civis Policy Leaders Internship Program 2026 has officially opened applications, inviting young law and public policy students to engage in meaningful work at the intersection of governance, public participation, and lawmaking. This initiative by Civis offers a unique opportunity for students to understand how laws are shaped and how citizens can actively contribute to that process.
Civis, an initiative of the Civic Innovation Foundation, is dedicated to bridging the gap between governments and citizens. By simplifying draft laws and enabling public participation in consultations, Civis ensures that policymaking becomes more inclusive and accessible.
About Civis and Its Mission
Civis has established itself as a leading platform for civic engagement in India. Through its online platform, it enables citizens to understand complex legal frameworks and share their feedback on draft laws before they are finalized.
The organization has received multiple recognitions, including the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia award, the Agami Prize for Legal Innovation, and accolades from state government startup summits such as Maharashtra and Vibrant Gujarat. Civis has already facilitated over 1300 public consultations, demonstrating its impact in strengthening participatory democracy.
This internship program is an extension of this mission, aiming to empower the next generation of legal and policy professionals.
Internship Overview
The Civis Policy Leaders Internship Program is a 12-week remote internship scheduled from April to June 2026. It is designed for students who are curious about public policy and eager to explore how laws are developed with citizen input.
This program provides a blend of research, communication, and outreach work, allowing interns to gain holistic exposure to policy-making processes.
Key Dates to Remember
- Application Deadline: 5th April 2026
- Shortlist Announcement (Round II): 8th April 2026
- Internship Start Date: 15th April 2026
Applicants are encouraged to apply early through the official Google Form to secure their chance in this competitive program.
Roles and Responsibilities
Interns selected for the Policy Leaders Internship Program will take on a range of impactful responsibilities.
Simplifying Laws and Policies
One of the core tasks involves breaking down complex draft laws and policies into simple, easy-to-understand summaries. This ensures that citizens from diverse backgrounds can engage with policy content.
Conducting Policy Research
Interns will conduct detailed research on upcoming laws and policy issues. This includes understanding the context, implications, and real-world impact of various legislative proposals.
Content Creation and Communication
Participants will create blogs, explainers, and policy analyses for the platform and partner publications. They may also contribute to external media platforms, enhancing their writing and communication skills.
Outreach and Engagement
Interns will support both online and on-ground outreach initiatives. This includes creating regional-language explainer videos and helping spread awareness about public consultations to encourage citizen participation.
Skills and Learning Outcomes
The Civis internship is designed to equip participants with practical and transferable skills.
- Hands-on experience with public consultations and civic engagement
- Strong foundation in policy research and analysis
- Enhanced writing and communication skills
- Exposure to real-world lawmaking processes
- Opportunity to learn directly from industry experts
These skills are highly valuable for students aspiring to build careers in litigation, public policy, governance, or academia.
Benefits of the Civis Internship
The Civis Policy Leaders Internship Program offers several benefits that make it a highly attractive opportunity.
- Internship certificate from Civis
- Stipend for the duration of the program
- Access to a pan-India network of students and professionals
- Opportunity to contribute to real policy discussions
- Practical experience that strengthens academic learning
Additionally, interns may have the opportunity to extend their internship based on performance and approval from the internship coordinator.
Eligibility Criteria
The program is open to:
- Law students and public policy students
- Candidates in their third year or above
This ensures that applicants have a foundational understanding of legal or policy frameworks, enabling them to contribute effectively during the internship.
Why Choose Civis
Civis stands out as a platform that not only educates but also empowers. Unlike traditional internships, this program allows participants to directly engage with the policymaking process and contribute to democratic participation.
For students who want to move beyond textbooks and understand how laws impact society in real time, Civis offers an unparalleled learning experience.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must apply through the official Google Form provided by Civis, attached to the quick apply button above for your quick reference. Applicants should ensure that they provide accurate details and highlight their interest in public policy and civic engagement.
Early application is recommended due to the limited number of positions and the competitive nature of the program.
Final Thoughts
The Civis Policy Leaders Internship Program 2026 is more than just an internship—it is an opportunity to be part of a larger movement aimed at making governance more inclusive and participatory.
For students passionate about law, policy, and social impact, Civis provides the perfect platform to learn, contribute, and grow. With hands-on experience, expert mentorship, and meaningful work, this internship can serve as a strong foundation for a future career in public policy or law.