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Student Volunteer Program

Student Volunteer Program

 

The Secret Service Student Volunteer Program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the nature and the structure of the U.S. Secret Service. The program provides unpaid, academic-related work assignments that allow students to explore career options while developing personal and professional skills. Participants must be currently enrolled in school and are expected to volunteer a minimum of 12 hours per week for at least one semester, two quarters or summer session. 

The student volunteer (unpaid) announcements are published on USAJOBS twice a year, in February and July. Those interested in applying are encouraged to follow the application procedures described in the announcement. The Secret Service does not accept unsolicited applications for the Student Volunteer Service Program. Applicants should submit a resume.

Most recent transcript (unofficial is acceptable) or an acceptance/registration confirmation from the accredited educational institution. Work schedules will be determined by the office, the student, and the educational institution.

Prior to acceptance, student volunteers will be required to submit an agency agreement signed by a representative of the educational institution outlining the number of credit hours to be received, as well as the number of hours the student volunteer will be required to work.

Students in this program are volunteers and therefore will not be paid and are not eligible to receive federally funded benefits or pay. Volunteer service is for academic credit only. Students will not be allowed to work for experiential purposes. Volunteer service is not creditable for annual or sick leave or any other employee benefits.

Volunteers will undergo a limited background investigation. A Top Secret clearance will not be issued.

A student volunteer is not a federal employee for any purpose other than injury compensation and law related to the Tort Claims Act under 5 U.S.C. 3111.

Those selected as student volunteers must:

  • Be a U.S. citizen;
  • Be at least 16 years of age at the time of appointment;
  • Be enrolled or accepted in an accredited educational institution (high school, technical school, college/university) during the upcoming semester or quarter;
  • Maintain a satisfactory academic record of a 2.5 or better cumulative grade point average;
  • Obtain an agreement from the academic institution to participate;
  • Not be a son or daughter of a current U.S. Secret Service employee.