NITI Ayog Internship 2025: Eligibility, Benefits, Stipend, Online Form

The NITI Aayog Internship 2025 is one of the most prestigious opportunities for students and researchers to gain hands-on experience in policy-making, governance, and economic development under the Government of India. Established as the premier policy think tank replacing the Planning Commission, NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming India) plays a crucial role in shaping India’s developmental strategies through innovation, data-driven analysis, and cooperative federalism. This internship is designed for undergraduates, postgraduates, and research scholars who wish to contribute to national policy formulation while enhancing their professional skills.

Applications for the NITI Aayog Internship are accepted from the 1st to the 10th of every month, with selections made based on academic merit and alignment with the organization’s verticals. The internship, which can last between six weeks to six months, offers exposure to domains like economics, sustainable development, health, education, and infrastructure. While the program is unpaid, it provides invaluable experience, networking opportunities, and a government-issued certificate upon successful completion. Given the competitive nature of the internship—with only 10-15 interns selected monthly—prospective applicants must carefully review eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and strategies to strengthen their candidacy.

Key Highlights of NITI Aayog Internship 2025

Eligibility Criteria for NITI Aayog Internship 2025

The NITI Aayog Internship is open to students from recognized universities in India and abroad, provided they meet specific academic benchmarks. Undergraduate students must have completed their second year (4th semester) with at least 85% marks in Class 12. Postgraduate students should have secured 70% or higher in their graduation and either be pursuing their first year of PG studies or engaged in research/PhD. Additionally, recent graduates awaiting higher studies admission can apply if they have maintained a 70% cumulative score and apply within six months of their final results.

Age restrictions also apply, with candidates required to be between 21 and 30 years old. The selection process is highly competitive, with only a handful of interns chosen each month. To improve chances, applicants are advised to tailor their applications to specific verticals (such as Data Analysis, Economics, or Public Policy) and consider networking with NITI Aayog officials through professional platforms like LinkedIn .

Benefits and Learning Outcomes

Though the NITI Aayog Internship is unpaid, it offers significant professional advantages. Interns work alongside top policymakers, contributing to critical projects in sectors like agriculture, energy, health, and smart cities. They gain exposure to government workflows, policy drafting, and empirical research, which is invaluable for careers in civil services, public policy, or development sectors.

A major perk is the internship certificate, issued only if the candidate completes the minimum duration and maintains 75% attendance. Some divisions may also allow interns to present their findings in seminars, adding to their professional portfolio. Additionally, the experience of working in a government think tank enhances resumes and provides networking opportunities that can open doors to future roles in governance and research .

How to Apply for NITI Aayog Internship 2025?

The application process is entirely online and must be completed during the 1st-10th window of each month. Candidates should:

1. Visit the official portal (www.niti.gov.in/internship) and fill out the registration form with personal, academic, and professional details .
2. Select preferred internship month (applications can be submitted up to six months in advance but no later than two months before the desired start date).
3. Upload necessary documents, including academic transcripts, a resume, and a cover letter explaining their interest in NITI Aayog’s work.
4. Submit the form and await shortlisting. Selected candidates may undergo an interview before final confirmation .

Pro tip: Cold-emailing NITI Aayog officials (found under the “Who’s Who” section on their website) with your application number can improve selection chances.

FAQs on NITI Aayog Internship 2025

1. Is the NITI Aayog Internship paid?

No, the internship is unpaid, but it provides a government certificate and invaluable policy exposure .

2. What is the last date to apply for the June 2025 internship?

The deadline is 10th June 2025 for internships starting in subsequent months .

3. Can foreign students apply?

Yes, students from recognized global universities are eligible if they meet academic criteria .

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