The Washington, DC Semester Program offers programming in spring, fall and summer semesters.

Application Information

We are currently accepting applications for three future semesters, each with their own deadline.

 Please be aware that early internship application deadlines for fall 2026 are already rolling. See our Internship page for more information and tips on applying. You can also reach out to Samantha Clemence (saclemen@syr.edu) for review of your materials and help targeting organizations of interest.

The Washington, DC Semester Program is selective, and admission is determined by a thorough review of candidates. The application includes three components:

• Application Form

• Resume

• Academic recommendation 

The three central criteria for admission to the Washington, DC Semester Program are academic performance, potential for successful participation, and motivation.  Please respond to the program information questions carefully with these criteria in mind.

Application Instructions: 

1. APPLICATION FORM: Washington Semester Program Application Form
   Complete the application form accessible through the above link.  The application is a web-based form which allows you to type your responses directly into the form and submit it electronically.  The form can be saved and finished at a later date, but only from the same computer and with the same browser which you started the application form.

2. ACADEMIC REFERENCE (include reference contact information on application form):
   All applicants are required to have a faculty member with whom they have taken a course serve as a reference.  Please select someone who is familiar with your academic work and plan of study. Do not ask your academic advisor or other individual unless they were an instructor for a course you took.  You will need to identify this person in the application form and provide their email address. We will contact them to complete a short form electronically. You do not need to request any forms or letters from them, but you must ask them if they are willing to serve as a reference for you BEFORE including their contact information in your application.

3. RESUME: Upload an up-to-date version of your resume to the application form. If you do not have a resume, this is an ideal time to create one! You can find samples and suggestions, as well as personalized help at SU's Career Services.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the application procedure or the program, contact Melissa Morton (memorton@syr.edu).

Opportunities for Financial Support

We recognize that the costs of living in Washington are higher than some other metropolitan areas, and so we offer one work-study position and two scholarships that provide a few lucky students with additional funding.   Those who are eligible for and would like to be considered for these funding opportunities, need to indicate so in the Financial Assistance section of the Maxwell in Washington application.

Maxwell-in-Washington Program Associate

This is a federal work-study position, and thus open to US citizens who qualify for this type of federal student aid. The Program Associate usually works one day a week, helping our Assistant Dean and Assistant Director keep our program running. There are a variety of administrative things to ensure an effective program, and you would play a central part. The associate will assist in maintaining the website, keeping track of our internship contacts, our database, and communications with current and prospective semester participants.

You must have available work-study hours in order to accept this position.

Michael D. Schneider Scholarships

Two or three students in the cohort will receive Michael D. Schneider Scholarships.  These scholarships award between $500-$2,000 based on academic merit and financial need.  They carry the name of former DC Director Michael Schneider for his long service to the DC Program, his dedication, and commitment to experiential education. 

For more information contact: maxwellindc@syr.edu