The OCA Summer Internship Program is a premier leadership development initiative based in Washington, D.C. Since its inception, it has aimed to increase AANHPI representation in local, state, and federal government. The 10-week Internship program places interns in diverse settings—from Congressional offices to nonprofits—and supplements work experience with “Sama Sama” (Together) workshops focused on community advocacy and professional growth.
OCA Summer Internship Program 2026 Summary Table
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Deadline | January 5, 2026 |
| Program Dates | June 1, 2026 – August 7, 2026 (10 Weeks) |
| Location | Washington, D.C. (In-person) |
| Stipend | $5,250 (Pre-tax) |
| Eligibility | Undergraduates & Recent Graduates (within 1 year) |
OCA Summer Internship Program 2026 Details
A unique pillar of this internship is the weekly Sama Sama sessions. Every Friday, the cohort gathers at the OCA National office to engage in workshops dedicated to AANHPI issues.
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The term “Sama Sama” is Tagalog for “together,” reflecting the program’s commitment to community building and collective advocacy.
Key Activities:
- Advocacy Day: Meet with members of Congress to discuss issues vital to the AANHPI community.
- National Convention: Staff and attend the major OCA National event.
- APIA-U Leadership Training: Intensive professional development and skill-building sessions.
Benefits & Compensation
- Financial Support: A $5,250 stipend is provided for the full 10-week duration. (Note: Leaving early results in a pro-rated reduction).
- Networking: Immediate access to the vast OCA alumni network, which includes executive directors and legislative staffers.
- Membership: One year of free OCA membership upon successful completion.
OCA Summer Internship Program 2026 Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the 2026 cycle, you must meet the following:
- Academic Status: Currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate or a recent graduate (within one year).
- Year Level: Must have completed at least your first year of college by the start of the internship.
- Citizenship: Open to U.S. Citizens, DACA students, and undocumented students with an SSN or ITIN. Non-citizens must be eligible to work in the U.S. by June 1, 2026.
- Interest: A demonstrated passion for issues affecting the AANHPI community.
- Exclusions: Not open to former OCA National Summer Interns or children/dependents of OCA National staff/Executive Council members.
How to Apply for the OCA Summer Internship Program 2026 (Step-by-Step)
The application process is competitive and requires preparation. Below is the workflow to ensure your submission is complete by the January 5, 2026 deadline.
Phase 1: Preparation (October – November)
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you are a full-time undergraduate or a graduate within one year of your degree. Verify you have a valid SSN or ITIN for stipend processing.
- Identify References: You will typically need 1-2 letters of recommendation. Reach out to professors or supervisors early.
- Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight community service, leadership roles, and any experience relevant to the AANHPI community.
Phase 2: Documentation (December)
Gather the following required materials:
- Resume: Focus on professional and volunteer experience.
- Cover Letter: Express your interest in AANHPI issues and specify the types of placement sites (e.g., Congressional, Federal, Non-profit) you are interested in.
- Academic Transcripts: Usually, unofficial transcripts are accepted for the initial application, but have them ready.
- Short Essay/Personal Statement: Be prepared to answer questions about your leadership philosophy and what “Sama Sama” means to you.
Phase 3: The Online Submission
- Access the Portal: Visit the OCA National website and navigate to the “Summer Internship” section to find the “Opportunity Submission Portal.”
- Placement Preferences: You will be asked to rank your preferred placement sectors. Research current AANHPI issues to explain why you want a specific placement.
- Final Review: Proofread your essays for clarity and tone. Ensure all file names are professional (e.g.,
FirstName_LastName_Resume.pdf).
Application Deadline: January 5th, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the application deadline?
The deadline for the Summer 2026 program is January 5, 2026.
2. Can I apply if I am an undocumented or DACA student?
Yes. DACA and undocumented students are eligible provided they have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and are authorized to work by the start date.
3. What does “Sama Sama” mean?
It is a Tagalog word meaning “together.” In the context of the internship, it refers to the Friday workshops where interns build community and discuss advocacy.
4. Is housing provided in Washington, D.C.?
While the program provides a $5,250 stipend to help cover costs, interns are generally responsible for arranging their own relocation and housing in the D.C. area.
5. Where will I be working during the week?
Placement sites vary based on interests and skills. Past interns have been placed in Congressional offices, federal agencies, for-profit corporations, and national nonprofit organizations.
6. Do I have to be Asian American to apply?
The program is open to all who have a demonstrated interest in Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) issues, though it specifically seeks to cultivate leadership within these communities.
7. What happens if I have to leave the program a week early?
The stipend is tied to completion of the full 10 weeks. If you do not complete the full term, your stipend will be reduced accordingly.
8. Can I apply if I am a graduate student?
The eligibility criteria specifically mention full-time undergraduate students and recent graduates (within one year). Graduate students may be eligible if they fall within the one-year window of their undergraduate graduation.
9. I was an intern for an OCA Chapter (e.g., OCA-Westchester). Can I still apply?
Yes. Only former National Summer Interns are ineligible. Former Chapter interns are encouraged to apply for the National program.
10. Are the Friday workshops mandatory?
Yes. Participation in Friday workshops, the National Convention, and Advocacy Day are core requirements of the program and essential for receiving the full stipend.
