The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Internship Programme 2026 offers a unique opportunity for ambitious professionals seeking a paid internship in international development. This FAO internship allows participants to gain practical experience by working with leading experts in the fields of food security and agriculture, helping them enhance their skills and build a strong professional foundation.
About FAO
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger.
Our goal is to achieve food security for all and make sure that people have regular access to enough high-quality food to lead active, healthy lives. With 195 members – 194 countries and the European Union, FAO works in over 130 countries worldwide.
Join us in creating a world without hunger and poverty.
Program Overview
- Host Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO)
- Gender: Male and Female
- Program Level: Entry Level
- Qualifications: Undergraduate/Graduate Students
- Duration: 3-11 months
Benefits of the FAO Internship Programme 2026
- Financial support: Interns receive approximately $700 per month to help cover living expenses.
- Work experience: The program provides direct experience in food security and agriculture projects.
- Professional mentoring: Participants receive mentorship from experienced professionals to develop their skills.
- Global networking: An opportunity to build a network with colleagues from around the world.
- Diversity of locations: The program operates in various countries, providing a broad perspective on food security.
- Diversity of assignments: Internships suit a variety of backgrounds, with assignments in research, policy, and communications.
FAO Internship Programme 2026 Eligibility Criteria
- Nationality: Candidates must be citizens of FAO Member States.
- Academic Status: Candidates must be enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program at a recognized educational institution at the time of application, or recent graduates.
- Language: Candidates must have a working knowledge of at least one of the FAO official languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian). Knowledge of a second FAO official language is an added advantage.
- Age: Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years of age at the start of the internship (i.e., the internship must begin before the candidate turns 31).
- Personal Skills: Candidates must be able to adapt to an international, multicultural environment, have good communication skills, and be familiar with basic computer software.
- Residence: Candidates must have appropriate residency or immigration status in the country of assignment before the start of the internship assignment. No Conflict of Interest: Candidates who have family members (brother, sister, mother or father) working for FAO under any type of contract are not eligible to apply for the internship programme.
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Selection Criteria for the FAO Internship Programme 2026
- A relevant degree or current enrolment in an appropriate study program.
- Strong communication skills in English; proficiency in other languages is preferred.
- Interest in international development.
- Flexibility to undertake diverse tasks.
How to Apply for the FAO Internship Program 2026
- Visit the FAO official website and search for internship vacancies that match your interests and qualifications.
- Review the internship requirements, including eligibility criteria and required documents.
- Prepare the required documents, including a curriculum vitae (CV), cover letter, academic transcripts, language certificates, letters of recommendation, and identity documents.
- Submit your application through the online application portal available on the FAO official website. Ensure you complete all sections of the application form and upload all required documents.
- After submitting your application, you will receive an email confirming receipt of your application.
- The selection process may include a written test and/or interview, and shortlisted candidates will be notified accordingly.
- If selected, you will receive an offer letter and additional instructions on how to prepare for the internship.
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Application Deadline
The application deadline for the FAO Internship Programme 2025 has not yet been announced. However, interested candidates are advised to submit their applications as soon as possible to avoid missing out on this valuable opportunity.
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Conclusion
The FAO Internship Programme 2026 provides an exceptional opportunity for ambitious young people to engage in international work and develop their professional skills. By working on impactful projects in the areas of food security and sustainable agriculture, interns can positively contribute to communities around the world, while building a global network of professionals committed to promoting sustainable development.
