Graduate Employer of the Month | Rand Corporation

RAND's Summer Associate Program introduces outstanding graduate students to RAND, an institution that conducts research on a wide range of domestic and international social policy issues and matters of national security.

Research and analysis is enriched by diversity of talents and perspectives. We welcome all applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences to apply for this exciting opportunity.

The program receives several hundred applications each year; approximately 40–50 students are placed in each cohort. The selection process matches potential Summer Associates with mentors and projects based on their skills, interests, and expertise. Summer Associates work on currently funded projects that have the capacity to support a Summer Associate's work. Less than 10% of all applicants receive offers to participate in the Summer Associate Program. Cohort size is dependent on project availability and varies from year to year.

The program runs in the summer months only. Summer Associates work at RAND full-time for a 12-week period. Our summer 2026 program will be a hybrid model including in-person work at one of RAND's four offices with remote flexibility or working fully remote from where you live. Positions will only be available for students residing in the U.S. (excluding U.S. territories) for the duration of the summer associate assignments. In-person positions are typically available in RAND's major U.S. offices—Santa Monica, CA; Washington, DC; Pittsburgh, PA; and Boston, MA. Office placement decisions depend on the availability of in-person mentorship. Students receive bi-weekly compensation and are given the opportunity to conduct research that can be completed during the summer they are at RAND. The summer earnings for 2026 will be approximately $15,000 (before taxes) for the 12 weeks (60 work days) of full-time research. Note: Relocation assistance will not be provided for the 2026 program year.

To learn more and apply follow this link. Deadline to apply is December 1, 2025.