OECD Internship Programme 2026

The OECD Internship Programme gives motivated students the opportunity to work alongside policy experts and specialists at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. The programme is designed to help students apply their academic knowledge while developing analytical, technical, research and communication skills in an international environment.

Most internships are located at the OECD headquarters in Paris, France, although remote or hybrid arrangements can be agreed depending on the needs of the hiring team. The OECD also occasionally recruits interns at other OECD centres.

Interns may contribute to work across areas such as economics, development, digital policy, climate change, education, employment, finance, governance, health, trade, science and technology, taxation and sustainable development. Corporate opportunities may also arise in communications, finance, human resources, legal services, information technology, events, administration and translation.

Typical assignments may include conducting research, collecting and analysing data, preparing studies and documents, drafting notes, supporting publications, participating in meetings and seminars, liaising with researchers and government officials, and assisting with events or programme activities.

The programme operates continuously rather than through a single annual intake. OECD guidance states that it recruits approximately 600–700 interns each year, and applicants can submit their applications throughout the year.

• Be enrolled in a full-time accredited Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree programme.
• Remain enrolled as a student for the entire duration of the internship.
• Study in a field or discipline relevant to the work of the OECD.
• Be available for at least one month.
• Have an excellent command of English or French, the OECD’s two official languages.
• Have working knowledge of, or willingness to learn, the other official OECD language.
• Demonstrate good quantitative and IT skills.
• Have good drafting and communication skills.
• Be able to work effectively in a multicultural and international environment.
• Meet any additional requirements connected to the relevant OECD Directorate or project.

• €1,000 contribution towards living expenses per full month worked for interns based in Paris.
• Professional experience within a major international policy organisation.
• Opportunity to work alongside OECD policy experts and specialists.
• Exposure to international research, policy analysis and multilateral cooperation.
• 2.5 days of annual leave per month for eligible internships lasting more than two full-time months.
• French public holidays observed for Paris-based internships.
• Possibility of in-person, hybrid or remote working depending on team needs.
• OECD visa-team assistance for selected interns who require a visa.
• Opportunities to develop analytical, research, drafting and communication skills.

Initial Application

• Updated résumé/CV.
• Online OECD internship application.
• Cover letter entered in the “Message to Hiring Manager” section.
• Academic and employment information requested through the application portal.
• Responses to eligibility-screening questions.

The cover letter should explain the applicant’s academic background, relevant experience, interest in specific OECD policy areas, potential contribution to the Organisation and how the internship supports their career goals.

If Selected

• Copy of passport or national ID.
• Proof of full-time university enrolment.
• Proof of medical insurance covering the internship period.
• Copy of visa or residence permit where applicable.
• Bank-account details.
• Signed OECD Memorandum of Agreement involving the intern and sending academic institution.

• Meeting the OECD Internship Programme eligibility requirements.
• Academic background relevant to the OECD’s work.
• Relevant professional, academic or research experience.
• Motivation to undertake an internship with the OECD.
• Understanding of the OECD and the work of the relevant Directorate.
• Ability to contribute to specific OECD policy areas or projects.
• Quantitative and IT skills.
• Drafting and communication ability.
• English and/or French language proficiency.
• Ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
• Performance during any interview or written assessment required by the hiring Directorate.

• Gain practical experience within a leading international policy organisation.
• Work alongside specialists in economics, policy, research and international cooperation.
• Apply academic knowledge to real policy and organisational projects.
• Build research, analytical and professional communication skills.
• Gain exposure to multinational and multicultural working environments.
• Explore potential careers in international organisations and public policy.
• Develop professional networks with experts, researchers and policy practitioners.
• Strengthen your profile for future academic, policy or international-development opportunities.