PAID FAO Internship Programme 2027: Gain Hands-On Experience with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization

Overview

The Internship Programme offers a learning opportunity for talented individuals to share their perspectives, ideas, and research experience in fields related to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. Selected participants gain practical work experience to supplement their academic knowledge and understand FAO mandates and programs, while assisting the organization with its Strategic Objectives and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The typical duration of an internship ranges from 3 to 11 months, depending on departmental needs and the specific assignment. Interns receive a monthly stipend in local currency, capped at a maximum of US$700 to help with living expenses, whereas sponsored interns are financially supported directly by their sponsoring institutions.

Who can apply

Applicants must be nationals of FAO Member countries and between 21 and 30 years old at the start of the internship, meaning the assignment must begin before the candidate turns 31. Eligible candidates include students currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a bona fide educational institution, as well as recent graduates. For applicants studying where higher education lacks divided undergraduate and graduate stages, completion of at least three full-time years of study toward a degree is required.

Candidates must also hold appropriate residence or immigration status in the country of assignment before the internship starts. Individuals are ineligible if they have family members, defined as a father, mother, brother, or sister, who are employed by FAO under any type of contract.

Requirements

Candidates are required to have a working knowledge of at least one official FAO language, which includes Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish, while knowledge of a second official FAO language is considered an asset. Applicants should possess basic computer program knowledge, good communication skills, and the ability to adapt to a multicultural, international environment.

How to apply

Interested individuals must submit an online application through the career portal by responding to a Call for Expression of Interest. The application package must include a motivation letter and evidence of attendance at a recognized university. Only candidates who are selected will be contacted by the organization. Those who are not selected before the closing date and wish to remain considered for an assignment must re-apply to new calls.

Key dates

The posting date for the internship calls is 21/Sep/2026. The closure date for applications is 31/Dec/2026 at 10:59:00 PM.