OECD Internship 2026 Opens Doors for International Students

If you are an ambitious student seeking to launch a global career, the OECD Internship Programme might just be your golden opportunity. Hosted by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), this programme is designed to bring talented students from across the world into the heart of policy-making and international cooperation.

Every year, the OECD recruits around 700 interns from diverse academic fields, offering them hands-on experience in research, policy development, and administrative support. With headquarters in Paris and regional centres in Berlin, Istanbul, Tokyo, Mexico City, Trento, Washington DC, and Crete, this programme is one of the most sought-after international internships available today.

What Makes the OECD Internship Unique?

Foreign applicants can look forward to a wide range of benefits that make this internship both practical and rewarding:

• A monthly living allowance of €1,000 in Paris.
• 2.5 days of paid leave per month for internships longer than two months.
• Flexible working arrangements, including teleworking options in line with OECD policy.
• Access to training courses and language classes to boost career skills.
• A vibrant international intern community that organizes networking and cultural activities.
• Direct exposure to OECD’s global policy initiatives that influence more than 100 countries.

Internships usually run for one to six months and can be extended up to 12 months, making the programme adaptable to a variety of academic calendars.

Who Can Apply?

This internship is targeted at students from both OECD and certain non-member countries. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be enrolled in a full-time accredited degree programme (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) during the internship.
• Show strong interest in fields related to OECD’s work, such as economics, international development, governance, science and technology, migration, education, environment, finance, or public policy.
• Demonstrate excellent command of English or French (OECD’s official languages) and a willingness to learn the other. Knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.
• Possess solid analytical, research, IT, and communication skills.
• Be eager to work in a multicultural environment and collaborate with experts from around the globe.

Areas of Work for Interns

Foreign students can apply across a broad range of fields, such as:

• Policy Research & Analysis: Trade, Agriculture, Health, Digitalisation, Employment, Energy, Environment, Finance, Gender & Diversity.
• Governance & Development: Public Administration, Anti-corruption, Global Relations, International Migration, Regional Development.
• Technical & Administrative Functions: IT, Human Resources, Media, Communications, Legal Services, Event Management, and Translation.

This flexibility ensures that students from different academic backgrounds can find roles that align with their career goals.

How the Recruitment Works

The OECD accepts applications all year round, meaning candidates can apply at any time. The process includes:

1. Submitting an online application and tailored cover letter.
2. Screening and pre-selection by the Internship Office.
3. Interview or written test for shortlisted candidates.
4. Offer of internship and signing of the agreement.

The full process usually takes 1–3 months, so applicants are encouraged to apply at least three months before their desired start date.

Why International Students Should Apply

The OECD Internship Programme is more than just work experience—it is a launchpad for an international career. Whether you want to work in global organizations, government, academia, or private industry, this experience will set you apart.

By joining, you will:

• Gain real exposure to international policy-making.
• Network with top professionals and global leaders.
• Build a strong foundation for a career without borders.

Applications are open on a rolling basis.
If you are ready to step into the world of international policy and development, don’t wait—prepare your documents and apply now https://www.oecd.org/en/about/careers/internships.html.