The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) offers one of the most respected internship programmes for students seeking hands-on experience in global policy, research, and international cooperation.
OECD Internship Programme: Build Global Policy Experience in an International Environment
Designed to attract curious, motivated, and talented students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds, the OECD Internship Programme provides a unique opportunity to work alongside leading policy experts while contributing to the organisation’s mission of building better policies for better lives.
About the OECD Internship Programme
OECD internships are open on a rolling basis throughout the year and welcome students who are currently enrolled in a fully accredited degree programme, including bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD studies. Interns join the organisation to support analytical, research, policy development, or corporate functions in a truly international setting. Depending on team needs, internships can be conducted in person in Paris, in a hybrid format, or fully remotely, offering valuable flexibility to candidates worldwide.
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The programme is designed to help interns strengthen their analytical, technical, and professional skills while gaining exposure to real-world policy challenges that affect governments and societies across the globe.
What Interns Do at the OECD
Interns at the OECD play an active role in supporting the daily work of policy analysts, economists, researchers, and corporate professionals. Responsibilities vary by directorate and assignment, but interns may be involved in:
- Preparing studies, background papers, and policy documents
- Conducting research and reviews of existing literature and data
- Collecting, organising, and analysing quantitative and qualitative data
- Supporting the drafting of working papers, reports, and publications
- Participating in meetings, seminars, and workshops
- Liaising with government officials, researchers, and representatives of international organisations
- Supporting communication activities, event organisation, planning, and evaluation
Through these tasks, interns gain practical exposure to evidence-based policymaking and international collaboration.
Policy Areas and Departments
The OECD’s work spans a wide range of policy domains, allowing interns to align their placement with their academic background and career interests. Internship opportunities are available across areas such as:
- Agriculture and fisheries
- Climate change and environment
- Development and trade
- Digital transformation and innovation
- Economy, finance, and taxation
- Education, skills, and employment
- Health and social policy
- Governance and public sector reform
- Science, technology, and innovation
- Regional, rural, and urban development
- Energy, transport, and nuclear policy
In addition to policy-focused roles, interns can also work within corporate functions, including communications, finance, human resources, IT, legal services, translation, audit, and event management. This diversity ensures that students from a wide range of disciplines can find relevant opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for an OECD internship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled full-time in an accredited degree programme for the entire duration of the internship
- Be available for a minimum internship duration of one month
- Have an excellent command of English or French, with a willingness to learn the other official language
- Possess strong quantitative, IT, drafting, and communication skills
- Be able to work effectively in a multicultural and international team environment
Most internships are based at the OECD headquarters in Paris, France. While internships are primarily allocated to nationals of OECD member countries, non-member country nationals may also be considered for specific programmes and affiliated bodies such as the International Energy Agency, Nuclear Energy Agency, Financial Action Task Force, or International Transport Forum.
Selection Process
The OECD internship selection process follows four main stages:
- Online application and cover letter submitted via the SmartRecruiters platform
- Pre-screening by the Internship Office, with shortlisted candidates shared with OECD directorates
- Interview and/or written test, depending on the hiring team
- Internship agreement issued to selected candidates
Because the recruitment process can take up to three months, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply well in advance and clearly indicate their availability.
Internship Duration, Allowance, and Benefits
Internships last between one and six months, with the possibility of renewal up to a total of twelve months. Internships are generally full-time (40 hours per week), although part-time arrangements may be possible in exceptional cases.
Interns based in Paris receive a monthly living allowance of €1,000. In addition, interns are entitled to 2.5 days of annual leave per full month worked, and French public holidays are observed. The OECD recommends an internship duration of at least four months to fully benefit from the experience.
Why Apply for an OECD Internship?
An OECD internship offers more than just professional experience—it provides exposure to international policymaking, opportunities to build a global professional network, and a chance to contribute to meaningful work that shapes policies worldwide. For students aspiring to careers in international organisations, public policy, research, or development, the OECD Internship Programme is a powerful stepping stone.
