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If you’re passionate about politics, diplomacy, or international cooperation, a European Union Internship offers a rare chance to learn directly from its institutions. Whether you’re working with the European Parliament, the Commission, or the Council of the EU, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how decisions are made that affect over 400 million citizens across Europe. From policy research to communication and legal work, EU internships place students at the heart of European governance.
The most popular options include the Schuman Traineeship in the Parliament, the Blue Book Traineeship at the Commission, and specialized roles like the Cicero and Administrative Traineeships. These programs are open to both EU nationals and international students and are often fully funded, with monthly stipends, travel allowances, and health insurance. Whether you’re applying from Italy, Russia, Spain, Kenya, or the UK, there are clear timelines, deadlines, and selection steps. Keep reading to find out how to apply, what to expect, and how these internships can begin your career in European affairs.
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European Union Internship | Student Jobs in Legal Affairs & Human Rights
About the European Union
The European Union is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. It was formally established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1993, although its foundations trace back to earlier agreements like the European Coal and Steel Community in the 1950s. The EU was created to promote peace, economic cooperation, and shared political values across the continent. It has since evolved into one of the most influential regional organizations in the world, with its own institutions, laws, currency, and governance structures.
The EU operates through several main bodies, including the European Commission, the European Parliament, the Council of the European Union, and the Court of Justice. It manages key policy areas such as trade, agriculture, energy, the environment, and digital regulation. Its currency, the euro, is used by 20 of the member states. Through its treaties, directives, and joint policies, the EU works to ensure regional stability, protect human rights, regulate markets, and represent European interests on a global level. With its headquarters in Brussels, the EU also plays a leading role in diplomacy, climate action, and regional integration.
European Union Internship Program Overview
The EU offers several structured internship programs through its main institutions. Here are the key facts students should know before applying:
- Internships typically last 5 months, with sessions in Spring (March–July) and Autumn (October–February)
- Open to citizens of EU member states and a limited number of non-EU international applicants
- Most internships take place in Brussels, Luxembourg, or Strasbourg
- Trainees receive a monthly stipend of around €1,300, plus travel allowance
- Interns are placed in departments such as law, policy, communication, translation, or administration
- Applications are submitted online, with separate portals and deadlines for each program
- Each year, the EU accepts over 2,000 trainees across all its institutions
Types of Internships
The EU offers several well-known internship programs through its core institutions. Below are the most popular and frequently searched options.
- Blue Book Traineeship
Organized by the European Commission, this 5-month paid traineeship includes placements in policy, law, communications, and administration. Around 650 candidates are selected per session. - Schuman Traineeship
Offered by the European Parliament, this program places interns in committees, legal services, and research teams. It runs twice a year and is open to graduates from across the EU and select non-EU countries. - Summer Internships
Some EU institutions and agencies offer short-term summer roles, though they are less structured than Blue Book or Schuman. Availability varies and often depends on departmental needs. - Cicero Traineeship
Offered through the European External Action Service, this traineeship focuses on diplomacy and external relations. Ideal for students in political science, EU studies, or international affairs. - Administrative Traineeship
Separate from Blue Book, this program supports back-office and logistics teams in Brussels and Luxembourg. It’s often assigned to departments dealing with administration, finance, or HR.
Eligibility Criteria:
Each EU traineeship program has its own guidelines, but most follow similar basic requirements. Here’s what applicants typically need to qualify:
- Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Must have completed at least a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Must not have previously worked or interned at any EU institution for more than 6 weeks
- Must have excellent command of English or French; knowledge of a second EU language is an asset
- Must provide university transcripts, a CV, and sometimes a motivation letter
- For the Schuman Traineeship, a clear interest in EU affairs or parliamentary work is required
- For Blue Book, some roles may require specific fields like law, economics, communications, or translation
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Interview Questions:
EU internship interviews focus on motivation, policy interest, and cultural awareness. Below are common questions with quick tips on how to answer:
- Why do you want to intern with the European Union?
Show interest in EU policies, public service, and cross-border cooperation. - What do you know about the department or unit you applied to?
Mention recent work, reports, or focus areas relevant to that office. - How do you stay informed about EU affairs?
List sources like Euronews, Politico EU, or the European Parliament website. - Describe a time you worked in a multicultural or international environment.
Use a real example that shows communication, respect, and adaptability. - What skills would you bring to this traineeship?
Highlight things like research, languages, policy writing, or analytical thinking. - How would you handle tasks with tight deadlines or limited supervision?
Mention time management, self-initiative, and staying organized. - Are you familiar with the goals and values of the European Union?
Refer to peace, democracy, human rights, and economic cooperation.
How to Apply for the European Union Internship?
Applying for an EU internship involves a structured online process. Follow these steps to submit your application:
- Visit the official portal through the given “Apply” button.
- Browse available listings by institution, role, or program.
- Select an internship that is a good fit for you to view detailed information.
- Click the “Apply” button to start your application.
- Sign in with your EU Login account or create one if you don’t have one.
- Complete the online application form, providing accurate personal and educational details.
- Upload the required documents, including your resume/CV, academic transcripts, and any other specified materials.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure all information is correct.
- Submit your application and await further communication regarding the selection process.
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