If you're looking to kickstart your career with hands-on international experience, EU internships (traineeships) offer a valuable gateway into Europe’s most influential institutions. Whether you're a recent graduate or a current student, applying for a paid internship in the European Union can enhance your CV, broaden your global perspective, and provide networking opportunities across sectors such as policy, economics, law, translation, IT, and more.
What Are EU Internships?
EU internships, also known as “stages” or “traineeships”, are structured training programs typically offered by EU institutions and agencies. They usually last between 3 to 5 months and are mostly based in Brussels or Luxembourg.
Most of these internships are salaried, offering a monthly stipend of around €1,200 tax-free, plus health insurance in some cases.
Top EU Institutions Offering Internships
Here’s where you can apply for highly competitive European Union internships:
- European Commission (EC Traineeship)
- European Parliament
- European Council
- European Central Bank (ECB)
- European Court of Justice
- European Court of Auditors
- European Economic and Social Committee
- European Ombudsman
- European Network and Information Security Agency (ENISA)
Tip: Browse current opportunities at Eurobrussels, which lists internships at European NGOs and international organizations with deadlines.
European Commission Traineeship 2025
The European Commission Traineeship is one of the most sought-after placements. With two intakes per year (March and October), the EC offers:
- 650 internship spots per intake
- €1,000 monthly allowance
- Private health insurance
- Work in policy development, economics, translation, law, and more
- Location: Brussels or Luxembourg
- Duration: 5 months
More details and applications: European Commission Traineeships Office
Eligibility and Application Tips
- Open to EU and non-EU graduates
- Typically require at least a Bachelor's degree
- Strong command of English or French (and sometimes a second EU language)
- No more than six weeks of prior experience in an EU institution
- Application deadlines vary; plan 6-9 months in advance
Beware of paid intermediaries: Some third-party websites offer placements for a fee. While they may be legitimate, it is cheaper and safer to apply directly via official websites.
What Will You Do During an EU Internship?
Internships within EU bodies vary widely and may include:
- Drafting reports and policy documents
- Conducting research and analysis
- Attending meetings and EU Parliament sessions
- Supporting translation or legal services
- Assisting in communications, press, or public relations
- Working in IT, HR, or administrative functions
LSE European Internships Fair
If you’re a student at the London School of Economics (LSE) or Sciences Po, don’t miss the annual European Internship Fair held every Lent term. The fair connects students with:
- EU institutions and agencies
- International NGOs based in Brussels
- European diplomatic and economic networks
How to Apply for European Union Internships
- Research internship deadlines at institutions you’re targeting
- Prepare your CV, cover letter, and references in English or French
- Track application windows (typically open once or twice per year)
- Submit applications via official portals (e.g., EPSO, EC traineeships site)
- Consider speculative applications to MEPs if you're interested in working in the European Parliament
Conclusion: Whether you aim to work in public policy, economics, law, or communications, an EU internship offers an exceptional launchpad. With generous stipends and unmatched exposure to international governance, applying for the European Commission traineeship or other EU internships could be your first step into a global career.
Start planning now for 2025 intakes—early applications lead to better outcomes!
Official Call: https://info.lse.ac.uk/current-students/careers/information-and-resources/type-of-organisation/eu-internships