The John Smith Centre Parliamentary Internship Programme has been running since 2017 and places students with host MSPs/MPs for invaluable work experience.
Through the structured 10-week placement programme, our interns work in parliamentary and constituency office settings in close cooperation with their host MSPs/MPs and their staff, enabling them to develop a range of workplace relevant skills and an appreciation for the value of a career in public service.
We are proud to pay our interns above the Real Living Wage. All current and past interns join our Alumni Network.
Are you an MSP/MP interested in taking part in our next programme? Please contact us and we’ll send you all the information. You can also read testimonials from other host MSPs and interns.
Are you a Senior Honours student at a Scottish university interested in taking part in our next programme? Join the Parliamentary Internship Programme mailing list to be kept up to date with programme news, including when applications next open.
The details
The Parliamentary Intern will be based in the constituency/regional office of an MSP or MP, with some possible travel for parliamentary business. The purpose of the role is to support the MSP/MP and their constituency/regional office staff in a specific area of work or with a range of constituency/regional office work, including casework, research, administrative tasks and communications.
The 2026 Parliamentary Internship Programme will take place between 1 December 2025 and 30 April 2026.
- Length of placement with MSP/MP: 10 weeks (between January and March 2026)
- Hours per week: 7 (flexible and by negotiation with host MSP office)
- Salary (p/h): £13.53
- Deadline to apply: 2359 on Monday 29 September 2025
The programme will offer internships in two areas of Scotland:
- Greater Glasgow (Glasgow, Central Scotland or West Scotland parliamentary regions),
- North East of Scotland (North East and Highlands and Islands parliamentary regions)
This programme is an excellent stepping stone for those aspiring to make a difference in public service.
Any other questions? Check out our FAQs.
Application Resources
» The Parliamentary Internship Programme
Applications to the Parliamentary Internship Programme can be made on the University’s website until 28/29 September 2025. This video will help you to submit a strong application.
» Interviews for the Programme
Interviews for the Parliamentary Internship Programme will take place online. This video will provide you with some tips & tricks on how to prepare.