The FAO Internship Program (Food and Agriculture Organization) is a prestigious international training opportunity designed for talented and motivated students from around the world who are eager to gain hands-on professional experience within a United Nations agency. Through this program, selected interns work closely with FAO professionals while contributing innovative ideas, academic knowledge, and research skills to global food and agricultural development initiatives.
The internship allows undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students to complement their academic studies with practical work assignments aligned with FAO’s mission of ending hunger and improving food security worldwide. In addition, successful applicants receive a monthly stipend of up to USD 700, making this one of the most attractive UN internship opportunities for students globally.
Also, read:
- Swansea University EPSRC Scholarships in UK | Fully Funded
- University of Bradford Scholarships in UK For International Students
- UCL Humanitarian Scholarship in UK | Fully Funded
Summary of FAO Internship Program 2026
- Host Organization: Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- Internship Type: International Internship / Training Program
- Eligible Countries: All FAO Member Countries
- Target Group: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Postgraduate Students
- Financial Benefits: Up to $700 Monthly Stipend
- Additional Benefits: Medical Coverage and Professional Training
- Language Test (IELTS): Not Required
- Internship Duration: 3 to 11 Months
- Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
About the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized UN agency that leads international efforts to combat hunger, improve nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture. Headquartered in Rome, Italy, FAO operates in more than 130 countries and works with 194 member states worldwide.
FAO’s core mission is to ensure food security for all by guaranteeing regular access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food. Through policy development, research, emergency response, and technical support, FAO plays a central role in improving livelihoods and building resilient food systems across the globe.
What Is the FAO Internship Program?
The FAO Internship Program is a structured learning initiative aimed at young students and recent graduates who wish to gain international work experience within the UN system. The program provides interns with the opportunity to work in FAO offices at headquarters in Italy or in FAO country and regional offices worldwide.
Interns are assigned to departments relevant to their academic background and interests, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges in agriculture, food security, climate change, economics, nutrition, development policy, and related fields.
FAO Internship Program 2026 Details
Applications are now open for the 2026 FAO Internship Program, and candidates from all eligible countries are encouraged to apply. Internships are offered throughout the year and placements are based on organizational needs, candidate qualifications, and availability.
The program is highly competitive and seeks candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance, adaptability, and a genuine interest in FAO’s work and values.
Eligibility Requirements for FAO Internship Program 2026
To be considered for the Food and Agriculture Organization Internship 2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Academic Requirements
- Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate degree programme at a recognized educational institution, or be a recent graduate
- The educational institution must be listed in the IAU/UNESCO database
- Area of study must be relevant to FAO’s mission and work
Nationality Requirement
- Applicants must be nationals of FAO Member Nations
Age Requirement
- Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old at the time of application
Language Requirements
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO official language:
Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish - Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an advantage
- Only language certificates from UN-accredited external providers or FAO official language examinations (LPE, ILE, LRT) are accepted
Other Requirements
- Ability to work in a multicultural and international environment
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Must have appropriate residence or immigration status for the duty station before the internship begins
Ineligibility Conditions
- Applicants with immediate family members (parent, sibling) currently employed by FAO under any contractual arrangement are not eligible
Benefits of FAO Internship Program 2026
The FAO Internship Program offers both financial and professional benefits to selected candidates.
Financial Benefits
- Monthly stipend of up to USD 700 for interns who are not sponsored by a university or other institution
- Stipend is paid for the entire duration of the internship
Professional and Career Benefits
- Practical experience within a United Nations agency
- Exposure to international development and food security projects
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced FAO professionals
- Opportunity to build a global professional network
- Enhanced career prospects within international organizations
Internship Duration
- Internship assignments last between 3 and 11 months, depending on departmental needs and candidate availability
FAO Internship Selection Process
Once an application is submitted through the FAO recruitment portal, the selection process follows several stages:
- Application Screening
Applications are reviewed based on academic background, language skills, and relevance to FAO’s work. - Credential Verification
FAO only considers degrees and qualifications obtained from institutions recognized by the IAU/UNESCO. - Shortlisting and Selection
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further assessment or interviews.
Only applications submitted through the official FAO recruitment portal are considered.
Required Documents for FAO Internship Application
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents during the online application process:
- Completed FAO online profile
- Letter of motivation explaining interest in the internship
- Proof of enrollment in a recognized university or copy of academic qualifications
- Language proficiency certificates (if applicable)
- Updated academic and personal information
Incomplete or inaccurate applications will not be reviewed.
How To Apply for FAO Internship Program 2026 (Step-by-Step Guide)
Follow the steps below carefully to apply for the FAO Internship Program 2026:
1: Visit FAO Careers Portal
- Go to the official FAO recruitment website: Jobs at FAO
2: Create or Update Your Online Profile
- Complete your profile with accurate personal, academic, and language information
- Include employment history (if any) and relevant skills
3: Upload Required Documents
- Attach your letter of motivation
- Upload proof of university enrollment or academic certificates
4: Submit Your Application
- Review all details carefully
- Submit your application well before the deadline
5: Reapply If Necessary
- Candidates not selected before the closing date may reapply to new calls if they wish to remain under consideration
Application Support
- For inquiries or technical issues, contact: Careers@fao.org
Why Apply for the FAO Internship Program?
The FAO Internship Program for Students Worldwide is an excellent opportunity for young professionals seeking international exposure and practical experience in global development. It allows interns to contribute meaningfully to FAO’s mission while gaining skills that are highly valued in international organizations, NGOs, and government agencies.
Moreover, the program provides a strong foundation for future careers within the United Nations system and other global institutions.
Conclusion
If you are a student or recent graduate looking for a paid UN internship with global impact, the FAO Internship Program 2026 is an opportunity worth pursuing. Ensure your profile is complete, your documents are accurate, and your application is submitted on time.
Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
 is a prestigious international training opportunity){kind=link}