About the opportunity
The Internship Programme aims to attract talented young women and men who are strongly motivated to share their new perspectives, innovative ideas, and latest academic experience in FAO’s domains. The Programme provides a learning opportunity to participants to supplement their academic knowledge with a practical work assignment in a field related to the work of FAO. Through the FAO internship experience, interns contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and FAO’s Strategic Framework to support the 2030 Agenda through the transformation to more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable agri-food systems for better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life.
Salary and benefits
- FAO provides a monthly stipend to interns if they are not sponsored by sending universities or other entities.
- Practical work experience and professional development in an international multicultural environment.
Who can apply?
- Enrolled in an under-graduate or graduate degree programme in a bona fide educational institution at the time of application, or be a recent graduate.
- Higher educational qualifications must be obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
- Must specialize in a field relevant to the mission and work of FAO.
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish); knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.
- Must be nationals of FAO Members.
- Aged between 21 and 30 years old.
- Able to adapt to an international multicultural environment and possess good communication skills.
- Candidates who have already undertaken an internship assignment at FAO are not eligible.
- Candidates with family members (mother, father, sister, or brother) employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible.
Required documents
- Letter of motivation
- Evidence of attendance in a recognized university or a copy of academic qualifications
When to apply
- Opening date: 24/Jan/2026
- Closure date: 25/Aug/2026, 9:59:00 PM
How to apply
- Visit the recruitment website at Jobs at FAO and complete your online profile, ensuring it includes employment records, academic qualifications, and language skills.
- Attach a letter of motivation and evidence of university attendance or a copy of your academic qualifications.
- Apply and submit your application through the FAO recruitment portal.
Additional information
- FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
- Selected candidates should have appropriate residence or immigration status in the proposed country of assignment prior to joining the Organization.
- Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non- and under-represented Members, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Current students or recent graduates aged 21-30.
- Individuals with a strong academic background in fields relevant to FAO's mission.
- Candidates who are nationals of FAO member nations and possess strong communication skills.
What should you think carefully about?
- Candidates must secure their own residence or immigration status in Italy prior to starting.
- Those who have previously completed an FAO internship or have close family members currently employed by the FAO are ineligible.
- The stipend is only provided if the intern is not already sponsored by another entity.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This internship is an excellent way to bridge the gap between academic study and professional practice. It provides a unique opportunity to contribute to global sustainable development goals while gaining experience in a multicultural, international environment.
Our take
Talented students and recent graduates who meet the age and nationality criteria should consider this for the professional exposure it provides. It is less suitable for those who cannot secure their own residency in Rome or who require a permanent salary.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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