Baucus Leaders DC
The Baucus Leaders DC program is directly inspired by Max Baucus’ 36 years of service as a U.S. Senator for Montana. Every summer we place exceptional undergraduate and graduate students in internships at senate and congressional offices in Washington DC.
Summer 2027 applications will open on November 16, 2026. Links to the application form will be on this website. The deadline will be January 22, 2027.
About Baucus Leaders DC
Since 2018, Baucus Leaders have worked for Senate offices such as:
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Senator Steve Daines (R–MT)
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Senator Jon Tester (D–MT)
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Senator Tim Sheehy (R-MT)
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Senator Charles Grassley (R–IA)
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Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D–NY)
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Senator Chuck Schumer (D–NY)
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Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)
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Senator Mike Crapo (R-ID)
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Senate Finance Committee
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Senate Indian Affairs Committee, among others.
Each internship is full-time (40 hours/week) and starts on or around June 1 and ends on or around August 1. Baucus Leaders are given a stipend to defray the costs of airfare to and from Washington, D.C., housing, and food during the two-month internship. This stipend is contingent on successful completion of the internship and adherence to the Institute's policies and professional standards of conduct, including the Social Media Policy.

Qualifications & Commitments
The Baucus Leaders DC program is open to all current undergraduate and graduate students attending Montana-based colleges and universities. Leaders are selected based on academic performance and commitment to public service. Leaders must also have at least a 3.0 GPA , be in good academic standing at the time of applying, and be enrolled as full-time students during the spring semester before their internship. Students from under-resourced communities are highly encouraged to apply.
Baucus Leaders DC commit to participating in pre-program orientation meeting(s), as well as several Institute lunches and evening lectures while in DC. At the end of the program, students write a reflection of their experience.


How to Apply
A current resume
Must be up-to date and include all relevant experience.
An academic transcript (can be unofficial)
Showing grades through the most recent semester for which final grades are available. Graduate students should also send a transcript for their undergraduate studies.
Answer short essay questions
Tell us why you want to be a Baucus Leader DC, your commitment to and interest in public service, and how you believe you will contribute to the program.
Letter of recommendation
From a person who can speak with personal and professional knowledge about your character and commitment to public service.