American Gaming Association Internship 2026: Student-Led Research Opportunity for Master’s & PhDs [$5,000 Funding for Your Graduate Project]

The American Gaming Association (AGA) invites original research proposals for its Applied Practical Experience Internship for the Spring/Summer 2026 session. This is a unique opportunity for graduate students (Master’s level or above) to design and lead their own research project within the gambling industry.

While the internship is unpaid regarding salary, selected interns can be reimbursed up to $5,000 USD to cover research costs, such as database access or software tools. If you are looking to build a portfolio-ready work product under the mentorship of industry experts, you must submit your proposal by January 30, 2026.

Internship Overview & Key Details

What Will You Do?

This is not a typical internship; it is a student-led research initiative. You will lead your project from concept to completion. Mentorship: You will work directly with Dr. Carly Johnson, AGA’s Director of Research. Industry Insight: Gain exposure to national gaming policy, regulation, and real-world datasets. Deliverable: You will leave with a tangible, policy-relevant work product that solves a practical industry problem.

Eligibility and Evaluation Criteria

The AGA is looking for rigorous academic proposals that fit industry priorities. To qualify, you must meet the following criteria:

• Academic Level: Must be a Graduate Student (Master’s or above).
• Skills: Strong communication, initiative, and experience working independently are required.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in statistical software is advantageous.
• Proposal Quality: Your application is judged on the originality of your hypothesis, methodological rigor, and relevance to gambling studies.

Application Requirements (The Proposal)

You cannot just send a resume. You must submit a research proposal (Max 5 pages) containing:

• Title and Abstract.
• Research Hypothesis & Objectives.
• Background & Literature Review.
• Methodology: Data sources, sample size, tools, and analytical approach.
• Timeline & Budget Justification: How will you use the $5,000 support?
• Expected Outcomes: How does this contribute to the industry?

Timeline 2026

• Proposal Deadline: January 30, 2026.
• Offers Extended: Rolling basis through February 13, 2026.
• Project Duration: February to August 2026 (Dates can be tailored to academic needs).

How to Apply

This is an email-based application process. Follow these instructions strictly:

1. Prepare Files: Convert your Cover Letter, CV, and RFP Response (Proposal) into PDF format.
2. Email: Send all files to Dr. Carly Johnson at cjohnson@americangaming.org.
3. Subject Line: You MUST use the subject line: “Applied Practical Experience Response-[Your Name]”.

Official Guidelines: Click Here to Download RFP Guidelines