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The FAO Internship 2026 is an opportunity accorded to non-national students and graduates, to work with the specialized United Nations agency, located in Rome, Italy to gain relevant professional experience. The program will give young people with interests a linkage to FAO projects in the world towards sustainable agriculture, food security and environmental conservation. The participants will be under professional mentorship and assist in real-life development objectives in the process of refining their research, policy as well as field operation skills.
The FAO Internship is the golden opportunity to work in one of the most influential global organizations whether you are a student who wants to gain the exposure or a graduate who wants to advance his or her career.
Key Highlights
| Host Country | Italy (and FAO regional offices worldwide) |
| Organization | Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) |
| Duration | 3 to 11 months |
| Coverage | Monthly stipend up to USD 700, medical coverage for service-incurred incidents |
| Eligibility | Students & Recent Graduates (21–30 years old) from FAO Member Countries |
| Deadline | 1 January 2026 |
Detailed Description
The FAO Internship 2026 is a place to invite young talent to help in global food systems, and agricultural sustainability by working in various departments. Interns will be assigned to work with professionals in projects regarding research, communication, IT, development, and field management.
It is a program that fills the gap between the academic and professional job life and prepares the interns with global experience and technical knowledge. Assignments can be posted in FAO Headquarters in Rome, Italy and also regional/sub-regional offices around the world.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of up to USD 700
- Medical coverage for work-related incidents
- Certificate of completion from FAO
- International contacts with professionals
- Professional UN experience and skill development
- Global exposure in the fields of agriculture and development
Eligibility Criteria
- Be nationals of an FAO Member Country
- Be currently enrolled in or have recently graduated from a recognized university
- Be between 21 and 30 years during the internship period.
- Have working knowledge of at least one FAO official language (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, or Russian)
- Have no immediate relatives employed by FAO
- Hold the necessary visa/residence status if required by the duty station
Required Documents
- Updated CV / Resume
- Motivation Letter outlining interest and preferred field
- Proof of Enrollment or Degree Certificate
- Proof of Nationality (Passport or ID)
- Language Proficiency (if applicable)
- Visa/Residence Permit (if required
Application Process
- Visit the FAO Careers Portal.
- Find the vacancy of the “Internship Programme”.
- Create or log in to your FAO account.
- Complete the online application form and attach all the documents.
- Submit your application before the 1 January 2026 deadline.
How to Apply
Apply through the official FAO website:
Apply Now
FAQs
1. Is the FAO Internship 2026 paid?
Yes, FAO Internship is fully sponsored and also has monthly stipend to cater to living expenses.
2. Can I apply if I have just graduated?
Yes, recent graduates are eligible as long as their graduation date is within the last 12 months.
3. Do I need prior work experience?
None of the previous work experience is necessary. FAO does not reject the new graduates and students.
4. Are international students eligible?
Yes, all FAO Member Countries offer their students and graduates eligibility.
5. What language should I apply in?
Applications can be submitted in English or another FAO working language (French, Spanish, etc.).
6. Where will I work during the internship?
Most interns work at FAO Headquarters in Rome, but positions are also available in regional offices worldwide.