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  4. Pathways for Students and Recent Graduates at FDA
  1. Jobs and Training at FDA

Pathways for Students and Recent Graduates at FDA

The Pathways Program offers federal internship and employment opportunities for current students, recent graduates and those with an advanced degree. The Pathways Program offers three different paths.

Federal Jobs by College Major

To assist with your federal government career search, click above to see a listing of academic majors that match up to federal jobs. Note: This is not an all-inclusive list.

Internship Program: The Internship Program is for current students. If you’re a current student in high school, college, trade school or other qualifying educational institution, you may be eligible. This program offers paid opportunities to work in federal agencies and explore federal careers while completing your education.

Recent Graduate Program: The recent graduate program is for those who have graduated, within the past two years, from a qualifying educational institution or certificate program. The recent graduate program offers career development with training and mentorship.

You must apply within two years of getting your degree or certificate (veterans have up to six years to apply due to their military service obligation).

Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) Program: This program is for recent graduates with an advanced degree—either a professional or graduate degree such as a master’s, Ph.D. or J.D. You may be eligible if you:

  • Have completed an advanced degree from a qualifying educational institution or program within the past two years.
  • Are a current graduate student and will complete all of your degree requirements (including dissertations) by the PMF application deadline.

How Do I Apply?

All Pathways Program positions are posted on www.usajobs.gov. To set up a saved search and receive alerts for when a position is posted, please follow the instructions here. Use the term ‘Student Trainee’ when creating a search.

As soon as an announcement is posted, we encourage students to apply immediately as this is a highly competitive program. We suggest interested students create a profile on USAJobs in advance, and ensure they have an up-to-date resume and transcripts (scanned) so you’re prepared when an announcement is posted.

Search for Student/Recent Grad Positions Now

FDA's Role in Shaping Health: A Student Symposium

The FDA is excited to host this first-time pilot event for medical students to visit and learn more about the FDA. Experts will share insights about their current roles and the impact they have on the nation’s health.

Since it is a pilot year, program invitations are currently intended for students of medical school institutions within geographic proximity to FDA’s White Oak campus.

We have a minimum number of enrollment openings for medical students on this two-day event. Interested students must register as soon as possible using the link below. To be eligible, students must be enrolled in one of the medical schools listed below and use their school email address for registration. Students will be notified by February 14, 2025 whether you have been selected to attend or not.

Students are responsible for their own travel and accommodation expenses. Parking is available on the FDA campus at no charge. Food will be available for purchase in the cafeteria.

Non-US citizens will need to provide additional information in order to access the FDA campus.

List of schools eligible to participate in the event. 

Event Details
Date: Thursday, June 12, and Friday, June 13, 2025
Time: 9 AM – 3 PM each day
Location: FDA White Oak Campus in Silver Spring, Maryland
Please note, this is currently not open to pre-medical students.
Registration opens on January 8 and will close by January 22, 2025, or earlier, depending on availability.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

 

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