The OECD Young Associates Program 2026–2028 is now open for applications. This fully funded two-year policy fellowship in Paris offers recent Bachelor’s graduates the chance to work on global economic and social issues, gain high-level mentorship, and prepare for future postgraduate study.
Overview: OECD Young Associates Program 2026–2028
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has officially opened applications for its prestigious Young Associates Program (YAP) 2026–2028, hosted in Paris, France. This is a competitive, fully funded, two-year professional placement designed for exceptional recent Bachelor’s graduates who want to build a career in international policy, economic development, global governance, and research.
Young Associates work closely with senior OECD economists, policy analysts, and directors, gaining hands-on experience in multilateral policy processes, research, drafting, event coordination, and stakeholder engagement. The programme acts as a launchpad for applicants planning to pursue a Master’s or PhD after the fellowship.
Applications close on 14 December 2025.
Programme Highlights
- Two-year placement at OECD headquarters in Paris
- Work directly with senior policy experts and international teams
- Conduct research, prepare reports, and support high-level meetings
- Receive tailored mentorship for academic and career advancement
- Gain exposure to major global policy issues
- Receive tax-free salary and benefits
- Designed for candidates preparing for postgraduate studies after completion
Available Host Directorates for 2026–2028
Successful applicants will be assigned to one of the following OECD directorates or bodies:
- Directorate for Financial and Enterprise Affairs (DAF) – Anti-bribery
- Economics Department (ECO) – Office of the Chief Economist
- Directorate for Employment, Labour and Social Affairs (ELS) – Health data systems
- Environment Directorate (ENV) – Climate finance
- Financial Action Task Force (FATF) – Anti-money laundering
- Directorate for Public Governance (GOV) – Director’s Office
- International Energy Agency (IEA) – Energy security data
- International Energy Agency (IEA) – World Energy Outlook
- Science, Technology and Innovation Directorate (STI) – Data flows and privacy
- Science, Technology and Innovation Directorate (STI) – Digital transformation
- Trade and Agriculture Directorate (TAD) – Director’s Office
Each placement offers a unique focus area, allowing candidates to work on cutting-edge economic, developmental, and governance issues.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the OECD Young Associates Programme 2026–2028, applicants must:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree completed between 1 January 2025 and 1 September 2026
- Not hold or be enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or equivalent
- Be a citizen of an OECD member country
- Have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (or equivalent)
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and motivation
- Be fluent in English or French, with willingness to learn the other
- Be able to relocate to Paris by September 2026
Additional assets include:
- Relevant coursework or research
- Experience in policy, economics, data, or international affairs
- Strong analytical, communication, or quantitative skills
- Clear plan to pursue graduate studies after the fellowship
Benefits and Allowances
The OECD provides an attractive, fully funded package for selected Young Associates:
Salary and Compensation
- Monthly tax-free salary: EUR 3,886
- Leaving allowance: approx. EUR 21,000 after two years
Additional Allowances
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Expatriation allowance
- Home leave travel allowance
- Installation allowance equivalent to one month’s salary
- Reimbursement of travel to Paris and return flight after the programme
These benefits make the YAP one of the most competitive early-career opportunities globally.
Selection Process Timeline
- 14 November 2025: Applications open
- 14 December 2025: Application deadline (23:59 CET)
- December 2025: Screening and online aptitude tests
- January–February 2026: Video interviews and written assessments
- March–April 2026: Final selections and offers
- September 2026: Programme start in Paris
How to Apply
- Visit the OECD Careers website.
- Search for Young Associates Programme (YAP) 2026–2028 positions.
- Submit your CV and cover letter for each position of interest.
- Complete the online aptitude test (if shortlisted).
- Proceed through video interviews and written assessments.
The OECD recommends applicants:
- Tailor their CV and cover letter to each specific directorate
- Demonstrate clear academic motivation and research capacity
- Explain how YAP connects to future postgraduate study plans
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) 2026–2028 |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Duration | 2 years |
| Salary | EUR 3,886/month (tax-free) |
| Additional Allowance | Approx. EUR 21,000 at end of contract |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s only (2025–2026 graduates), OECD nationals |
| Language | English or French |
| Deadline | 14 December 2025 |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Host Directorates | 11 OECD/IEA units |
| Purpose | Early-career training + pathway to postgraduate study |
Conclusion
The OECD Young Associates Programme is one of the most prestigious early-career opportunities in global policy, economics, and governance. With high-level mentorship, exposure to international decision-making, and a fully funded two-year placement in Paris, the programme empowers outstanding young graduates to launch careers in academia, international organisations, and public policy.
This is an exceptional opportunity for ambitious early-career professionals seeking world-class experience before graduate study.
