OECD Internship Programme 2026 – Paid Internship in Paris & Global Centres

The Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development (OECD) offers a paid internship programme for students enrolled in full‑time accredited degree programmes (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD). Interns gain practical experience in policy research, analysis, and corporate functions while working alongside experts from 38+ member countries.

Internships are available at OECD headquarters in Paris and regional centres in Berlin, Crete, Istanbul, Mexico City, Tokyo, Trento, and Washington DC. Approximately 700 interns are recruited every year. If you are looking for similar opportunities in Europe, explore fully funded scholarships in France for international students.

Internship Overview

• Host Organisation: OECD (Organisation for Economic Co‑operation and Development)

• Location: Paris (headquarters) and regional centres worldwide

• Duration: 1 to 6 months (renewable up to 12 months total)

• Monthly Contribution: €1,000 in Paris (varies by location)

• Leave: 2.5 days per month for internships longer than 2 months, plus public holidays

• Application: Rolling basis – apply at least 3 months before desired start date

For students seeking other funded programs in Europe, check latest scholarships in Europe for all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for an OECD internship, candidates must meet all of the following requirements:

• Be enrolled in a full‑time accredited degree programme (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) for the duration of the internship in a field related to the work of the OECD

• Be available for a minimum internship duration of one month

• Have an excellent command of one of the two official languages of the OECD (English or French) and a working knowledge of, or willingness to learn, the other. Knowledge of other languages is an advantage

• Have good quantitative and IT skills

• Have good drafting and communication skills

• Thrive in a multicultural and international team environment

Internships are primarily allocated to OECD member country nationals, while also open to non‑OECD member country nationals for specific programmes and projects, including across OECD‑affiliated bodies and agencies (e.g., International Energy Agency, Nuclear Energy Agency, Financial Action Task Force, or International Transport Forum).

What the OECD Offers

Interns benefit from a monthly contribution to living expenses (€1,000 in Paris). They receive 2.5 days of leave per month when the internship duration is longer than 2 months, plus public holidays observed by the OECD duty station. Flexible working arrangements are available, with the possibility to telework from outside the duty station in accordance with OECD guidelines.

Interns have access to various training opportunities (online and teacher‑led), including language courses. An active intern community organises events to help interns connect and network. The OECD provides an international environment, working with experts from 38+ countries.

Areas of Work

Interns can work in policy research, analysis, and advice across fields including Agriculture and Fisheries, Artificial Intelligence, Competition, Corporate Governance, Development, Digitalisation, Economy, Education and Skills, Employment, Energy, Environment, Finance, Gender and Diversity, Health, Industry Innovation and Entrepreneurship, International Migration, Investment, Nuclear Energy, Public Governance, Regional Development, Science and Technology, Statistics, Tax, Trade and Agriculture, and Transport.

Corporate functions include Communications Media and Public Relations, Event Management, Ethics, Finance Budget and Accounting, Human Resources, Information Technology, Legal services, Office Administration, and Translation.

For applicants interested in other international organisation internships, see Switzerland's latest scholarships in 2026.

How to Apply – Step by Step

Step 1: Visit the OECD careers website at oecd.org/careers/internship-programme.

Step 2: Complete the online application and cover letter. Select up to 3 areas of interest, and tailor your cover letter to highlight your skills and experiences relevant to these fields specifically.

Step 3: Familiarize yourself with the team’s work by exploring recent OECD publications to demonstrate your knowledge of and genuine interest in their projects.

Step 4: Indicate your earliest availability date. Apply at least 3 months before your desired start date.

Step 5: Applications are pre‑screened by the Internship Office. Hiring teams source candidates.

Step 6: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview and/or written test.

Step 7: Successful candidates receive an internship offer and sign a Memorandum of Agreement.

The recruitment process typically takes 1 to 3 months.

For additional financial aid options across Europe, explore financial aids for students in Europe.

What Makes a Strong Candidate

Strong analytical skills are essential, along with a genuine interest in the work of OECD in promoting international co‑operation.

Candidates should have the ability to conduct research independently, good organisational skills with the capacity to prioritise tasks often according to tight deadlines, and proven ability to work in a multicultural and team‑oriented environment and to adapt to changing working methods and technologies.

Testimonials from Former Interns

Sindri from Iceland (Directorate for Employment, Labour and Social Affairs) shared that her time at the OECD has been both productive and engaging, with a welcoming and cooperative work environment. Nicole from Colombia‑New Zealand (Development Co‑operation Directorate) described the internship as an incredible journey of professional growth, creative problem‑solving, and international collaboration.

Gunes from Türkiye (Centre for Entrepreneurship, SMEs, Regions and Cities) found the experience truly rewarding, contributing to climate‑related research. Nour from Belgium (Environment Directorate) highly recommended the internship, noting the unique environment of being surrounded by experts from every field.

Final Thoughts

The OECD Internship Programme is a prestigious, paid opportunity for students passionate about international policy and economic development. With rolling admissions, you can apply at any time – but be sure to submit your application at least 3 months before your desired start date.

Select your areas of interest carefully, tailor your cover letter, and demonstrate your knowledge of OECD’s work.

For a complete list of open internships and scholarships in Europe, visit list of all open scholarships in Europe.

Apply Now for OECD Internship Programme