Aside from providing passport services, visa issuance, document authentication, and other related services, did you know that the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has an internship program?
The DFA Student Internship Program offers the opportunity for college students to gain real-world experience, particularly in the fields of consular services, foreign policy making, and international relations. Typically, it involves at least 200 hours of on-the-job (OJT) training.
Eligibility
The program is open to college students who are at least 18 years old, on their 3rd or 4th year of schooling. Since internship slots are limited, applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition, there must be an existing Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the DFA and the college/university where the student is enrolled, for him/her to be considered for the internship program.
Requirements
When applying for the program, there’s a list of initial documents to be prepared. Once a student has been accepted, there are “Set A” and “Set B” documents that must be accomplished, as well.
Initial Documents
- Application Letter addressed to Assistant Secretary of the DFA Human Resources Management Office (HRMO);
- Endorsement Letter with letterhead of the college/university;
- Resume of the student applicant;
- Student Internship Plan;
- Training Schedule; and
- Valid National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Clearance.
Set A Documents
- Personal History Statement of the student applicant; and
- Notarized Parent’s Written Consent.
Set B Documents
- Medical Certificate attesting to student’s good health condition; and
- Certificate from Licensed Psychologist attesting to student’s psychological fitness.
Application Process
Several times a year, the DFA issues a call for applicants to the internship program. Registration usually takes place in February, July, and October. Official announcements are posted through the DFA Facebook page, with a registration link or QR Code for interested applicants.
Applicants are urged to visit the link or QR Code, and fill out the Google Form as part of the initial registration. The DFA then goes through all the submitted applications, and contacts shortlisted applicants for interviews.
During the selection process, shortlisted applicants will be asked to submit Set A documents (i.e. personal history statement, parent’s written consent) and Set B documents (i.e. medical certificate, certificate from licensed psychologist) to the DFA-HRMO. Depending on the number of applicants, this process usually takes about 10 to 15 working days.
Finally, the DFA finalizes the selection and sends an email to notify the chosen applicants. They will be asked to complete pre-internship requirements, before attending orientation and receiving instructions.
Image Credit: Department of Foreign Affairs, Republic of the Philippines / Facebook
For more information about the DFA Internship Program, interested applicants are encouraged to visit the agency’s official website or Facebook page. They can also make inquiries through this email address: hrmo.internship@dfa.gov.ph.Â
The DFA Internship Program offers a great opportunity for college students who are planning to pursue careers in international relations, foreign policy making, and other related fields.
Notably, the DFA often works with other government agencies in carrying out its functions. One of these is the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines. Head to this link for more details about this agency.