PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The London Internship Programme

Since 2013, the Margaret Thatcher Centre has welcomed American students to work for think tanks and MPs as part of their degree studies. Now expanded to include placements with law firms, barristers' chambers, media organisations, and public affairs consultancies.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

The London Internship Programme

Since 2013, the Margaret Thatcher Centre has welcomed American students to work for think tanks and MPs as part of their degree studies. Now expanded to include placements with law firms, barristers' chambers, media organisations, and public affairs consultancies.

Programme Overview

Our Parliamentary Internship Programme provides exceptional students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the heart of British political and legal life. Participants work alongside MPs, think tanks, and leading professional organisations during their three-month placement in Westminster.

Westminster Placements

Three-month internships in the heart of British democracy

Professional Experience

Work with MPs, think tanks, law firms, and media organisations

Visa Support

Tier 5 visa sponsorship for eligible international students

Academic Credit

Internships count toward degree requirements

Placement Opportunities

Interns are placed with a variety of prestigious organisations across Westminster and the City of London.

01

Parliamentary Offices

Work directly with Members of Parliament on policy research, constituent correspondence, and parliamentary affairs.

02

Think Tanks

Contribute to policy research and analysis at leading centre-right think tanks in Westminster.

03

Law Firms & Chambers

Gain legal experience with barristers' chambers and City law firms specialising in commercial and public law.

04

Media & Public Affairs

Experience political journalism, broadcast media, and strategic communications at top organisations.

Educational Visits

Beyond their placements, interns participate in exclusive educational visits to understand British political and legal institutions.

  • Houses of Parliament and House of Lords
  • 10 Downing Street (when available)
  • Supreme Court of the United Kingdom
  • The Royal Courts of Justice
  • Bank of England
  • Leading think tanks and policy institutes

Programme Expansion

Originally designed for American students, the programme is expanding to welcome students from across the English-speaking world.

Texas Partnership

New partnership bringing students from Texas universities to Westminster.

Canadian Students

Expansion to welcome Canadian students for placements in both London and Ottawa.

UK Students to Washington

Reciprocal programme placing British students with US Congressional offices and think tanks.

Eligibility & Application

  • Currently enrolled undergraduate or recent graduate
  • Strong academic record
  • Demonstrated interest in politics, law, or public policy
  • Eligible for Tier 5 visa (international students)
  • Available for full three-month placement

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Contact us for current intake dates.

Ready to Experience Westminster?

Join the next cohort of interns and gain invaluable professional experience in the heart of British democracy.

Apply Now