FAO INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027 FOR STUDENTS AND GRADUATES

FAO INTERNSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027 FOR STUDENTS AND RECENT GRADUATES

International Opportunity | Paid Internship | 3 to 11 Months

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is offering an Internship Programme for talented and motivated young women and men who want to gain practical work experience in international development.

The programme is designed for students currently enrolled in undergraduate or postgraduate degree programmes and recent graduates who wish to apply their academic knowledge in a professional environment.

Selected interns will have the opportunity to contribute fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and research experience to FAO’s work while gaining a better understanding of its mandate, programmes, and global development priorities.

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

FAO works to improve food security, nutrition, agricultural productivity, and the sustainable management of natural resources worldwide.

Through its Internship Programme, the organisation provides young people with opportunities to develop professional skills and gain practical experience in fields connected to its Strategic Framework and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

INTERNSHIP DURATION

The duration of an internship assignment is between 3 and 11 months.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must meet the following criteria.

1. Nationality

Applicants must be nationals of countries that are members of FAO. Nigerian citizens may apply, subject to meeting the other eligibility requirements.

2. Educational Background

Applicants must either be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme at a recognised educational institution when applying or be recent graduates.

3. Language Requirements

Applicants must have working knowledge of at least one of FAO’s official languages: English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian.

Knowledge of a second official language will be considered an advantage.

4. Age Requirement

Applicants should be between 21 and 30 years old at the start of the internship. The internship must begin before the applicant turns 31.

5. Communication and Computer Skills

Applicants should possess good communication skills, basic computer proficiency, and the ability to adapt to an international and multicultural working environment.

6. Residence and Visa Requirements

Applicants must have the appropriate residence or immigration status in the country where the internship will take place before the assignment begins.

7. Family Relationship Restrictions

Applicants whose brothers, sisters, mothers, or fathers are employed by FAO under any type of contract are not eligible for the Internship Programme.

BENEFITS OF THE PROGRAMME

1. Practical Work Experience

Gain hands-on experience in a professional international organisation and apply academic knowledge to real-world development activities.

2. Professional Development

Develop communication, research, analytical, organisational, and workplace skills.

3. International Exposure

Gain a better understanding of global development programmes and work in a multicultural environment.

4. Contribution to Sustainable Development

Support initiatives connected to food security, agriculture, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals, depending on the assignment.

5. Career Development

Build relevant experience that can support future opportunities in international development, research, agriculture, and related professional fields.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested and eligible candidates should apply online through FAO’s official career portal by submitting an application under the relevant Call for Expression of Interest.

Applicants are required to provide:

1. A motivation letter explaining their interest in the programme and relevant qualifications.
2. Evidence of attendance at a recognised university, where applicable.

Applicants should review the official vacancy information and ensure that all required documents are submitted.

OFFICIAL APPLICATION LINK

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Only selected candidates will be contacted.

Applicants who are not selected before a call closes but wish to remain under consideration must apply again when a new Call for Expression of Interest is published.

The internship duration is 3 to 11 months. The specific assignment, location, and any applicable stipend or financial arrangements should be confirmed in the relevant official vacancy announcement.

Application Deadline: Check the official FAO career portal for currently open calls and their closing dates.

Share this opportunity with eligible students and recent graduates interested in gaining international experience and contributing to sustainable development.