“This is a perfect programme for various individuals to expand their horizons and gain excellent experience at the highest-level institutions. I wish for everyone to experience such a perfect and valuable time as I luckily had,” says Mantas from Lithuania about the European Commission’s Blue Book Traineeship Programme. This scheme, established in 1960, allows around 1,000 people from all over the EU and beyond to gain 5 months of hands-on experience in EU policymaking and administration twice a year.
The internships are paid – expect around €1.490 per month in living allowance – and successful applicants get to work in a multicultural environment, develop professional skills, and gain insights into the operations of EU institutions. There’s no age limit for applicants. You will just need to have completed a standard 3-year higher education degree and be proficient in at least 2 EU official languages, one of which must be English, French or German.
To apply for an internship, you will first have to create an EU login account and then submit a completed application form and required supporting documents.
The internships start in March and October of each year. The next available traineeship you can register for is March-July 2026. You have until 29 August to submit your application.
Remember, the internships are open to all EU citizens, and there are also a limited number of places for non-EU nationals in specific EU departments. Like Kezia who travelled from Indonesia to take part in her Bluebook traineeship: “This is an incredible experience for a non-EU citizen. The European Commission’s inclusiveness is something I really like. I also gain skills that will help me in my professional career as an architect, urbanist, and researcher!”
So hurry, and get your application in now!
For more information
Blue Book Traineeship Programme
European Youth Portal – how to apply to the Blue Book traineeship programme
Traineeships and other opportunities for young people in the EU
