If you’re a Psychology student like me, you’ve probably noticed that finding relevant internships — especially in government settings — can feel tricky. But after digging deep, I found that there are several solid government internships for psychology students in 2025, especially in areas like mental health, research, child welfare, education, and human rights.
Here’s a full guide to help you find the best ones — whether you’re in undergrad, postgrad, or even pursuing clinical psychology.
About Government Internships for Psychology Students
In 2025, multiple Indian government departments and autonomous institutions are offering short-term internships for psychology, counselling, and mental health students. These internships are available in areas like:
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Mental health & counselling
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Human rights & trauma care
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Forensic psychology
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Education & child development
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Behavioral science & rehabilitation
Most are offline (on-site), but some do offer virtual internships — especially post-COVID.
Top Govt Internships for Psychology Students 2025
Here are the best opportunities available this year 👇
| Department/Institution | Internship Focus | Duration | Stipend | Mode | Last Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) | Clinical psychology, psychiatric social work, neuropsychology | 1–3 months | Usually unpaid | On-site (Bangalore) | Rolling (Apply early) |
| National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) | Trauma, mental health, rights of disabled & vulnerable | 1 month | No stipend | Apply Online | June/Nov 2025 |
| Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) | Child psychology, juvenile care, trauma counselling | 1–2 months | Unpaid | Mostly remote | April–June 2025 |
| Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) | Special education, disability psychology, rehab therapy | 1–2 months | Certificate only | Hybrid | July 2025 |
| TISS Field Action Projects (under govt grants) | Community mental health, case work | 6–8 weeks | Stipend (in few projects) | On-site (Mumbai, rural India) | Depends on project |
| Delhi Commission for Protection of Child Rights (DCPCR) | Child behavior studies, school counselling | 4–6 weeks | Certificate | Hybrid | Summer & Winter slots |
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility criteria for government psychology internships vary a bit, but here’s the general checklist:
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Education Level: UG (BA/BSc Psychology), PG (MA/MSc Psychology), M.Phil, PhD
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Discipline: Clinical, Counselling, Organizational, or Applied Psychology
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Skills Preferred: Report writing, empathy, communication, fieldwork
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Nationality: Indian citizens (some accept international students at NIMHANS/TISS)
Selection Process
Here’s how students are usually selected:
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Application Submission via official email/portal
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Resume + SOP evaluation
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Optional: Interview or phone discussion (TISS, NIMHANS)
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Selections are merit-based, some departments may ask for NOC from college
Internship Benefits
These internships are not just resume boosters — they offer real insights into mental health and social structures in India:
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Mentorship from psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors
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Government-recognized certificate
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Field visits and research participation (varies by department)
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Network with NGOs, social workers, and mental health professionals
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Learn policies around mental health, child protection, trauma care
Documents Required
Make sure to prepare these documents:
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Updated Resume/CV
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Statement of Purpose (SOP) — 300–500 words
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College ID card or Bonafide Certificate
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Latest mark sheets
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Letter of Recommendation (optional, but useful)
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Government ID (Aadhaar/Passport)
How to Apply?
Here’s how I (and many others) applied to govt psychology internships:
Option 1: Direct Application via Email
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Go to the department’s official website
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Look for “Internships” under the Career/Opportunities section
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Email your documents to the internship coordinator
Option 2: Apply Through Google Forms/Online Portals
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NHRC, MWCD, and DCPCR sometimes release internship forms on their websites or LinkedIn pages
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Follow their monthly/seasonal announcements
Important Dates (Tentative)
| Internship | Apply By | Internship Period |
|---|---|---|
| NIMHANS | Rolling | May–July / Nov–Jan |
| NHRC Summer | May 2025 | June 2025 |
| MWCD | April 2025 | May–July 2025 |
| DCPCR | June 2025 | July–Aug 2025 |
| RCI | July 2025 | Aug–Sept 2025 |
| TISS Projects | Project-wise | Flexible |
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What is the last date to apply for psychology internships in 2025?
→ Varies, but most summer programs close by April–May 2025 -
Are these internships paid?
→ Mostly unpaid, but some (like TISS projects) offer a small stipend -
Are these internships remote or offline?
→ Both exist — NHRC and MWCD often offer remote options -
Can I apply if I’m a first-year BA/BSc student?
→ Yes, some accept undergrads, especially NHRC and MWCD -
Is an SOP mandatory?
→ Yes, almost always — it helps show your interest in psychology and social work -
Do I get a certificate?
→ Yes, all government departments issue official internship certificates