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Internship

Be a Leader

The Conservative Internship Program is a unique opportunity to learn about politics, develop your skills as a leader, Conservative campaigner, and help to build the Conservative Party of Canada.

Learn from the Best

Interns from across Canada spend the summer in Ottawa working in a political office, participating in political training, and hearing from some of the sharpest political minds in the country.

Start a Career

Many of our internship alumni have gone on to serve in senior roles within government and in the private sector.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to be eligible to apply to the internship?

The Conservative Internship Program is designed for emerging professionals and students who are in the early stages of their education or career development. Applicants should currently be:

enrolled in, or recently graduated from, a post-secondary program,
employed or apprenticing in a skilled trade or related field, or
pursuing another recognized path of professional or leadership development.

Do I need to be a Political Science student?

You do not need to be a student to apply to the CPC Summer Internship.

Whom do interns work for?

Interns are directly employed by an MP’s office, Senate office, Opposition Leaders Office, or Conservative Party HQ. The intern program is separate and distinct from the regular employment with the hiring political office.

Is this a paid internship?

Yes – This is a paid internship.

What does a typical summer entail for a summer intern?

Interns are hired in a political office where they work 37.5 hours a week. After work and on weekends, interns will hear from high-profile guest speakers and participate in intensive political training. Interns will also work on numerous projects and assignments throughout the summer and participate in a summer-long group project that puts their political skills to the test. The Conservative Internship Program is demanding; however, it is also one of the best opportunities available to students across Canada to gain valuable political, social, and employment skills while building a network of valuable contacts. Interns who work hard are recognized and rewarded. In fact, some of Ottawa’s most senior staff members are former Conservative Party interns.

What backgrounds do interns typically have?

Our internship classes come from all kinds of backgrounds. Our most successful interns are the ones who apply themselves fully during their internship.

What makes an intern successful?

Work ethic.

Does the internship provide housing in Ottawa?

No. When moving to Ottawa you will be required to find and pay for your own accommodation. However, there is affordable housing within walking distance of Parliament Hill and the downtown area, including sublets from university and college students, and from the various local residences. Many housing opportunities are posted online at the university off campus websites, Craigslist Ottawa, and Kijiji Ottawa. Average rents and rental info can be conveniently found at https://www.uottawa.ca/campus-life/housing/off-campus-housing-information.

How do I purchase a Conservative Party of Canada membership?

Go to conservative.ca and click on “Join”.

How can I check to see if my membership has lapsed?

Please visit https://www.conservative.ca/membership-check/ or call the Membership Services department at 1-866-808-8407.

I do not know my Conservative Party of Canada membership number. What should I write on the application form?

Please visit https://www.conservative.ca/membership-check/ or call the Membership Services department at 1-866-808-8407.

When does the program run?

The program runs for 4 months, from Monday, May 1st, 2026 until Friday, August 15th, 2026. CPC Intern Orientation occurs on May 1st, 2026 and on May 2nd, 2026. Your actual employment typically starts the following Monday.

Am I required to attend all intern training/events?

Attendance for official events is mandatory. Training and speakers arrange only once and there are no opportunities to make-up missed training or events. Should there be a conflict with work obligations or serious personal circumstances please discuss this with the National Youth Coordinator. Please note that absences from training/events without reasonable explanation may result from your removal from the program.

Can I still apply if I don't provide a party reference?

You’re still eligible for the CPC internship program, but the strongest applications are those that include at least one person connected with the Party as a reference.

What is the application process for the internship?

The application process includes completing the application form (found on the Campus Conservative website) writing four short answer questions, (as outlined on the application form) and including a CV and cover letter. At least one political reference is recommended. This person could be a Conservative Member of Parliament, Senator, Candidate, National Councillor, campus club president, campaign team member, or a director from a Conservative Electoral District Association.

If I'm not accepted this year, can I apply again next year?

Yes, please apply again next year.

Can I participate in the CPC internship program more than once?

Yes. However, previous participation in the internship does not guarantee acceptance.

What happens after I apply?

After the submission deadline, all applications are reviewed and shortlisted candidates are contacted for a telephone interview.