Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) Intern

The Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) is now accepting applications for the Spring 2027 session.

This January, TLIP returns to Austin for the 90th Texas Legislative Session, giving interns hands-on experience in the fast-paced legislative process — supporting bill-writing, conducting policy research, and engaging directly with legislators, constituents, and advocates.

Over 36 years, TLIP has grown from a small group of students into one of the nation’s most successful legislative internship programs, with more than 900 alumni. Alumni include three current members of the Texas House of Representatives, Harris County Court at Law judges, and a City of Houston Council Member.

Eligibility

TLIP seeks highly motivated, civic-minded students. Enrollment in graduate or professional programs is preferred. Applicants must:

• Be at least 18 years of age
• Have completed at least 80 undergraduate hours at an accredited college or university
• Demonstrate strong writing and analytical ability

Benefits

• $2,000-$2,200 stipend per month 
• Academic credit at qualifying institutions
• Professional development, networking, and mentorship opportunities
• Direct experience in the Texas Legislature

Applications are due by October 11, 2026. Visit TXLIP.COM to learn more. 

PROGRAM BACKGROUND

The Texas Legislative Internship Program (TLIP) was established in 1990 by then-Texas Senator Rodney Ellis to honor his mentor, the late Congressman Mickey Leland, and provide opportunities for upper-level undergraduate, graduate, and law students interested in pursuing a career in public service to serve as interns in the Texas Legislature, state agencies, local and federal government, and nonprofit organizations. Students interested in the political process and in the kind of humanitarian values exemplified by Congressman Leland are encouraged to apply for the internship. Commissioner Ellis serves as advisor to the interns, while his office assists in coordinating on-site activities.

TLIP interns are involved in all facets of the public policy making process at the state and local level. During even calendar years, interns experience county and municipal government from the ground up, and work with policy and advocacy organizations. In the even years between legislative sessions, interns have served in the offices of elected and appointed officials at the municipal and county levels, such as the Harris County Judge, City of Houston Controller, and Civil and Criminal Court Judges.

TLIP experiences often serve as the springboard for selecting public service careers. Many TLIPers continue to work in public service at the federal, state, and local levels of government. Notably, three former TLIPers now serve in the Texas House of Representatives: The Honorable Ana Hernandez, Armando Walle, and Ron Reynolds. TLIP alumni also have held elected office as Judges, District Attorneys, and City of Houston Council Members.

ACADEMIC CREDIT

Interns must be enrolled* in an academic institution and receive credit for their internship experience. Interns are responsible for their academic admissions and enrollment in the necessary courses. *Recent graduates may be permitted.

PROGRAM DATES:

The Spring 2027 session placements will be in person in Houston, Texas:

• Mandatory orientation on Monday, January 11, 2027.
• First Day in office placement is Tuesday, January 12, 2027.
• Last Day in office placement is Monday, May 31, 2027**

**Note: In Odd-Years, (i.e. 2027), TLIP lasts the length of the legislative session at 140 days / 20 weeks.

STIPEND

For the Spring 2027 session, full-time interns may be eligible to receive a minimum stipend of $10,000. Additional stipend amounts, as well as stipends for approved part-time interns, will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may take into consideration housing needs, transportation costs, and other program-related expenses.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Interns will be assigned to work in the offices of state government, including ranking members of the Texas Legislature as well as non-profit organizations that impact policy.

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible students, at least 18 years of age, will have completed at least 80 undergraduate hours at an accredited college or university. Enrollment in graduate or professional school is preferred. Exceptional skills in writing, composition, and computer literacy are required. Full-time remote positions are not available.

THE APPLICATION

Completed applications must include a writing sample (essay or term paper), an unofficial transcript, proof of financial aid (if applicable), one letter of recommendation, and two references, & a resume.

DEADLINE

Submit the application and documents electronically to internshipTLIP@gmail.com by Sunday, October 11, 2026, by 11:59 PM. Rolling applications are permitted.

Open to current students AND post-graduate students.