Texas Intelligence Academy

FAQs

The Intelligence Studies Project (ISP) was established in 2013 as a joint venture of the Strauss Center for International Security and Law and the Clements Center for National Security out of a conviction that the activities of the U.S. intelligence community were increasingly critical to safeguarding our national security and yet were understudied at American universities. The ISP is building at The University of Texas at Austin a premier center for the study of U.S. intelligence through a variety of programs, including new course offerings and research projects, as well as periodic conferences and other public events focused on intelligence topics.

ISP will be responsible for all expenses in connection with TIA. Although ISP will provide public transportation passes and some meals for official TIA activities, a travel stipend will be provided to students to help cover other miscellaneous expenses. Any additional costs incurred for entertainment, souvenirs, or other purposes will be the responsibility of the student.

The TIA program will likely include activities hosted by U.S. Government agencies that require U.S. citizenship to gain access to their facilities.

No. TIA students will be expected to complete all required readings and assigned tasks as well as to engage constructively with TIA faculty, staff, and guests. Students who complete TIA should include the experience on their professional resumes.

TIA students will be led in Washington, D.C. by Stephen Slick, ISP Director and a clinical professor at UT-Austin's LBJ School of Public Affairs, and Kim Nguyen, ISP's Program Manager, will coordinate TIA activities in Washington, D.C.

No. Only undergraduate students scheduled to graduate in December 2025 or later are eligible.

Completed TIA applications will be reviewed by the ISP staff. Semifinalists will be invited to participate in in-person or phone interviews. The final list of students selected to participate in TIA 2025 will be approved by the ISP, Strauss Center, and Clements Center directors.

Successful applicants will present strong academic records, leadership qualities, and a demonstrated interest in national security, intelligence and/or public service. Appropriate consideration will also be given to applicants who have overcome obstacles in pursuing their academic goals.