FAO Internship Programme

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)

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Details checked on 22 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

National of an FAO member country; enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme or a recent graduate; under age 31 when the internship starts; working knowledge of at least one FAO official language; no previous FAO internship; no parent or sibling employed by FAO

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Internship of 3 to 11 months at FAO headquarters, regional, sub-regional or country offices, supporting work on hunger, food security and agri-food systems.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. National of an FAO member country; enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme or a recent graduate; under age 31 when the internship starts; working knowledge of at least one FAO official language; no previous FAO internship; no parent or sibling employed by FAO
2. Note the deadline. Rolling (posted as "Calls for Expression of Interest" on the FAO career portal) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Online profile on the FAO career portal, letter of motivation naming the unit or area of work, CV, proof of enrolment or recent graduation.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Hiring unit reviews responses to a published call → shortlisted candidates contacted

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
5. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for FAO Internship Programme?

National of an FAO member country; enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme or a recent graduate; under age 31 when the internship starts; working knowledge of at least one FAO official language; no previous FAO internship; no parent or sibling employed by FAO

What does FAO Internship Programme cover?

Monthly stipend in local currency (up to USD 700) for individual interns, plus medical coverage for service-incurred illness or injury; sponsored interns receive support from their sending institution

When is the deadline for FAO Internship Programme?

Rolling (posted as "Calls for Expression of Interest" on the FAO career portal) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with FAO Internship Programme?

Host countries: Italy.

What documents do I need for FAO Internship Programme?

Online profile on the FAO career portal, letter of motivation naming the unit or area of work, CV, proof of enrolment or recent graduation.

How are applicants selected for FAO Internship Programme?

Hiring unit reviews responses to a published call → shortlisted candidates contacted

How much work is the FAO Internship Programme application?

Medium: online profile + motivation letter