Apply for the FAO Internship Programme 2026. Paid internship for students and recent graduates with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization. Duration 3–11 months.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, offering talented students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a leading UN agency.
This paid internship programme provides practical exposure in areas aligned with FAO’s Strategic Framework and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About FAO
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations leads international efforts to defeat hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. Headquartered in Rome, Italy, FAO works in over 130 countries to advance food security and rural development.
About the FAO Internship Programme
The Internship Programme aims to:
- Attract talented young professionals
- Introduce innovative ideas and research perspectives
- Provide practical experience aligned with mandate
- Strengthen institutional capacity through youth engagement
Interns contribute to projects related to agriculture, climate change, food systems, nutrition, fisheries, forestry, rural development, and policy research.
Internship Benefits
The Internship Programme is paid, and selected candidates receive:
- A monthly stipend (as per internship policy)
- Professional experience within a UN specialized agency
- Exposure to international policy and development work
- Opportunities to contribute to SDG-related initiatives
Internship duration ranges from 3 to 11 months.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Nationality
- Must be a national of an FAO Member country.
Education
- Enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree programme at the time of application, OR
- Recent graduate from a recognized institution.
Languages
- Working knowledge of at least one official language:
- English
- French
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Chinese
- Russian
- Knowledge of a second official language is an asset.
Age
- Between 21 and 30 years old at the start of the internship (must begin before turning 31).
Skills
- Strong communication skills
- Ability to adapt to multicultural environments
- Proficiency in basic computer applications
Residency
- Must have appropriate residence or visa status in the country of assignment before starting.
Family Restrictions
- Candidates with immediate family members (mother, father, brother, sister) employed by FAO are not eligible.
Internship Duration
- Minimum: 3 months
- Maximum: 11 months
Assignments may be based at headquarters, regional offices, or country offices depending on availability.
How to Apply
Applicants must:
- Apply through the Career Portal
- Submit an online application under the “Call for Expression of Interest”
- Attach:
- Motivation letter
- Proof of university enrollment or graduation
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Candidates not selected may re-apply when new Calls are published.
Why Apply?
The Internship Programme offers:
- Direct exposure to UN operations
- Practical field and policy experience
- Networking within international development
- Contribution to global food security initiatives
- Career-building experience in agriculture and sustainability
For students interested in global development, environmental sustainability, nutrition, or agricultural policy, this programme provides meaningful professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the FAO Internship Programme paid?
Yes. Selected interns receive a monthly stipend.
Can recent graduates apply?
Yes. Recent graduates from recognized institutions are eligible.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be between 21 and 30 at the start of the internship.
How long does the internship last?
Between 3 and 11 months.
Do I need to speak English?
You must have working knowledge of at least one FAO official language.
Conclusion
The Internship Programme 2026 is a valuable opportunity for young professionals seeking hands-on experience with a United Nations specialized agency dedicated to food security and sustainable development.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documents and apply through FAO’s official career portal under the Call for Expression of Interest.
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