The FAO Internship Programme 2025–2026 is now open for applications. Based at FAO headquarters in Rome, this 3–11 month internship offers a monthly stipend of $700. Open to students and recent graduates aged 21–30 from FAO Member States.
Overview: FAO Internship Programme 2025–2026
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) invites applications for its Headquarters Internship Programme in Rome, Italy. Designed for talented young professionals, the programme provides practical work experience related to FAO’s mission of achieving global food security and transforming agri-food systems.
Interns work across technical, operational, and policy areas, contributing to FAO’s efforts to support the 2030 Agenda and advance efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.
Posting Date: 20 September 2025
Deadline: 1 January 2026
Location: Rome, Italy
Duration: 3–11 months
Stipend: USD $700/month (if not externally sponsored)
Nationality: FAO Member State nationals only
About the FAO Internship Programme
The programme aims to attract motivated young people from diverse backgrounds who can contribute fresh perspectives, innovative thinking, and academic expertise to FAO’s technical and strategic work.
Interns will:
- Supplement academic knowledge with hands-on experience
- Support global action toward ending hunger
- Contribute to FAO’s Strategic Framework
- Work in a multicultural UN environment
Each intern is supervised by an FAO staff member and assigned tasks based on their academic background and the organisation’s needs.
Responsibilities
Intern responsibilities are aligned with a specific Terms of Reference (TOR) and may include:
- Supporting research, policy analysis, and data collection
- Assisting in project planning, implementation, and reporting
- Contributing to publications, technical documents, and knowledge products
- Supporting meetings, workshops, and events
- Providing administrative and operational support
- Assisting with communication and outreach activities
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following:
Minimum Requirements
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate programme or be a recent graduate.
- Specialize in a field relevant to FAO’s mandate (agriculture, food security, environment, economics, etc.).
- Be 21 to 30 years old at the time of application.
- Be a national of an FAO Member State.
- Have working knowledge of at least one FAO language: Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish.
- Knowledge of a second FAO language is an advantage.
- Have strong communication skills and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
Additional Conditions
- No family members (parents, siblings) employed by FAO.
- Candidates who previously completed an FAO internship are not eligible.
- Must have a recognised academic qualification listed in the UNESCO/IAU WHED database.
- Must have valid residency/immigration status prior to starting the internship.
Benefits
- $700 monthly stipend (if not externally funded)
- International UN work experience
- Placement at FAO Headquarters in Rome
- Exposure to global food security and sustainability initiatives
- Networking with experts, policymakers, and global partners
- Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit your application:
1. Create a Profile
Visit the FAO recruitment portal:
Jobs at FAO (Careers Portal)
Complete your online profile with:
- Education details
- Work experience
- Language skills
- Supporting documents
2. Upload Required Documents
Attach:
- Motivation letter
- Proof of university enrollment or degree
- Academic transcripts or certificates
3. Submit the Application
Apply to the FAO HQ Internship Call for Expression of Interest.
4. Screening & Selection
- Only shortlisted candidates are contacted directly by hiring divisions.
- Selected candidates undergo reference and background checks.
Important:
FAO encourages early application. Candidates must reapply to future Calls if not selected before the closing date.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | FAO Internship Programme (HQ) 2025–2026 |
| Location | Rome, Italy |
| Stipend | USD $700/month (if not sponsored) |
| Duration | 3–11 months |
| Deadline | 1 January 2026 |
| Eligibility | 21–30 years, FAO Member State nationals |
| Academic Status | Enrolled student or recent graduate |
| Languages | At least 1 FAO language |
| Experience | Relevant academic field |
| Previous Internship | Not previously interned at FAO |
Conclusion
The FAO Internship Programme 2025–2026 is a strong opportunity for young professionals looking to build international experience in food security, agriculture, climate action, sustainability, and development. With a $700 monthly stipend, global exposure, and meaningful contributions to the UN’s work, this internship offers a valuable stepping stone toward a career in international development.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, early application is highly recommended to improve your selection chances.
