The OECD Internship Programme 2026 offers students worldwide the opportunity to gain hands-on policy, research and analytical experience in one of the world’s most influential international organisations. Apply for in-person, hybrid, or fully remote internships across multiple directorates in Paris.
Overview
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has officially opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme — one of the most competitive and globally recognised training opportunities for students interested in policymaking, international development, economics, governance, sustainability and multidisciplinary research.
The programme aims to bring motivated, talented and curious students from diverse fields into the organisation to support OECD’s mission: building better policies for better lives. Interns work alongside top experts, contribute to ongoing policy initiatives and gain exposure to real-world global governance challenges.
The internship is open all year round with flexible working formats — in-person in Paris, hybrid, or fully remote — depending on team needs.
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What OECD Interns Do
Interns support essential analytical, administrative and policy-focused tasks across the organisation. Responsibilities vary by directorate, but typically include:
- Conducting research and reviewing existing literature
- Preparing studies, notes, reports and technical annexes
- Collecting, organising and analysing datasets
- Supporting policy development and drafting background documents
- Assisting in the planning and organisation of meetings, workshops and seminars
- Liaising with officials from governments, academia, and partner institutions
- Supporting event coordination, communication tasks and knowledge management
This hands-on exposure provides interns with a strong foundation in international policy analysis and multilateral collaboration.
Where You May Work
Interns are placed within one of OECD’s directorates or corporate units, including:
Policy Directorates
- Agriculture & Fisheries
- Climate and Environment
- Development
- Digitalisation
- Economy
- Education & Skills
- Employment
- Governance
- Industry, Business & Entrepreneurship
- International Energy Agency
- Nuclear Energy Agency
- Science, Technology & Innovation
- Society, Gender & Inclusion
- Regional, Rural & Urban Development
- Trade
- Taxation
- Health
- Finance & Investment
- Transport (International Transport Forum)
Corporate Functions
- Human Resources
- Communications & Media
- Finance & Budget
- Legal Services
- Audit
- Information Technology
- Translation
- Event Management
- Office Administration
Placements depend on your background, skills and directorate needs.
Eligibility Requirements for Internship Programme
To qualify for the OECD Internship Programme, applicants must:
- Be enrolled full-time in a degree programme (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) for the entire duration of the internship
- Be available for at least one month (up to 6 months, renewable to 12)
- Have excellent command of English or French, with willingness to learn the other
- Possess strong quantitative, analytical and IT skills
- Demonstrate strong communication and drafting abilities
- Be comfortable in a multicultural, international environment
Most internships are based in Paris, but non-member country applicants may also apply for select departments such as IEA, NEA, FATF and ITF.
Duration, Working Hours and Flexibility
- Duration: 1 to 6 months, renewable up to 12 months
- Hours: Full-time (40 hrs/week) preferred
- Part-time (minimum 20 hrs/week) possible in exceptional cases
- Intake: Rolling applications all year round
- Working format: In-person, hybrid or remote depending on directorate
The OECD strongly recommends internships of at least 4 months to maximise learning outcomes.
Allowance and Benefits
- Interns based in Paris receive a monthly living allowance of €1,000.
- Annual leave: 2.5 days per full month worked
- Paris-based interns observe French public holidays
- Remote interns may have different benefit structures depending on team policies
Note: Travel, accommodation, visa, insurance and relocation expenses are not covered by OECD.
Selection Process
The OECD recruitment process involves four stages:
- Online Application & Cover Letter
Submit your application through SmartRecruiters, including a detailed cover letter. - Pre-Screening Stage
The Internship Office reviews applications and forwards shortlisted profiles to directorates. - Interview / Written Test
Teams may conduct a virtual interview and/or require a written assignment. - Offer & Internship Agreement
Successful candidates receive an official offer and must sign the internship agreement.
The process may take up to three months, so applicants should apply early and accurately list their availability.
How to Apply
Follow these steps to submit a complete OECD internship application:
- Visit the official OECD Internship page and click Apply Now.
- Create a SmartRecruiters account and fill in all required fields.
- Attach the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Detailed cover letter (very important)
- Proof of enrolment in an accredited degree programme
- Clearly indicate:
- Preferred start date
- Availability duration
- Preferred directorate(s)
- Submit your application and retain your confirmation email.
- You can update your availability anytime using the “Access My Application” link.
Applications are accepted year-round, and internships start based on team needs and candidate availability.
APPLY NOW
OECD Internship Programme
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | OECD Internship Programme 2026 |
| Location | Paris, Hybrid or Remote |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD students enrolled full-time |
| Duration | 1–6 months (renewable to 12) |
| Allowance | €1,000/month (Paris-based) |
| Working Hours | 40 hrs/week full-time (part-time possible) |
| Languages | English or French required |
| Application Timeline | Rolling year-round |
| Departments | Policy & Corporate Directorates |
| Selection Steps | Online form → Screening → Interview/Test → Offer |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are international students eligible?
Yes. While priority is given to OECD member-country nationals, non-member applicants may apply for certain affiliated bodies and projects.
Can I apply if I’m graduating soon?
You must be enrolled for the entire internship period. Graduating students must show proof of enrolment until the end of placement.
Is the internship paid?
Yes, interns based in Paris receive a €1,000 monthly allowance.
Can I complete the internship remotely?
Yes. Some directorates allow fully remote or hybrid internship formats.
Is French required?
No, but you must have excellent command of English or French and willingness to improve the other.
How competitive is the programme?
Highly competitive. A strong cover letter, relevant academic knowledge and demonstrated analytical skills significantly improve chances.
Final Thoughts
The OECD Internship Programme 2026 is an exceptional opportunity for students aspiring to work in international policy, economic development, research and governance. With its global impact, flexible working arrangements and exposure to real policy work, it is one of the most valuable international internships available today.
Students from all academic fields — economics, law, data science, governance, environment, digital policy and more — can find a suitable placement. If you want to contribute to global policy solutions while gaining world-class professional experience, this programme is highly recommended.
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