The NATO Internship Programme is a prestigious initiative offered by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), the world’s leading intergovernmental military alliance. Established in 1949, NATO’s mission is to safeguard the freedom and security of its members through political and military cooperation. The Internship Programme provides a unique platform for talented university students and recent graduates to contribute to this vital mission and gain invaluable experience working within a truly international environment. The NATO Internship Programme is open to citizens of all NATO member states. If you are a highly motivated individual with a strong academic background and a keen interest in international security affairs, then you may be a strong candidate. There are no specific degree requirements, but NATO seeks interns with a background in a wide range of disciplines, including political science, international relations, security studies, law, economics, engineering, communications, and languages.
The programme offers a limited number of internship placements each year, with start dates in either March or September. Internships typically last for six months, providing interns with a substantial period of time to gain meaningful experience and contribute to ongoing projects. As a NATO intern, you will be placed within a specific directorate or division at NATO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. This vibrant and cosmopolitan city is a hub for international organizations and diplomacy, offering a dynamic backdrop for your internship experience. Throughout your internship, you will be assigned real-world tasks and projects, allowing you to work alongside experienced professionals and contribute directly to NATO’s ongoing work.
The internship programme goes beyond simply providing work experience. NATO offers interns a comprehensive stipend to help cover living expenses in Brussels. Additionally, the programme provides travel assistance and a generous amount of paid leave. More importantly, you will have the opportunity to network with a diverse range of international professionals, attend briefings and seminars, and gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues facing NATO and the broader international security landscape. By participating in the NATO Internship Programme, you will gain invaluable professional experience, develop a strong network of international contacts, and make a real contribution to the vital work of this important organization. If you are a passionate and motivated individual with a strong interest in international security, then the NATO Internship Programme 2025 is an opportunity you won’t want to miss.
NATO Internship Programme 2025 Short (Summary)
- Programme: Internship
- Level of Study: University Students & Recent Graduates
- Institution(s): North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Headquarters, Brussels, Belgium
- Field of Study: Diverse fields including Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, Law, Economics, Engineering, Communications, Languages (and more)
- Deadline: 20th May 2024
Benefits Of Internship:
- Gain real-world experience working on international security issues.
- Work alongside experienced professionals at NATO Headquarters in Brussels.
- Receive a competitive monthly stipend of €1,217 to help cover living expenses in cosmopolitan Brussels, Belgium. This amount changes by year in line with inflation and NATO salary adjustments.
- Benefit from travel assistance and paid leave.
- You will be entitled to 15 days of paid leave during the six-month internship period.
- Attend briefings and seminars on current security challenges.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 21+
- Citizen of a NATO member state (check here)
- Educational status at least two years of university completed and enrolled in a third year OR having obtained your highest degree less than a year prior
- Strong academic background in a relevant field (political science, international relations, security studies, etc.).
- Fluency in English, with additional language skills a plus.
Documents Required:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Cover Letter outlining motivations and career goals
- Academic Transcripts
Application And Selection Process:
Apply online: Submit your application through NATO’s e-recruitment system (TALEO)
In your application, please provide as many relevant details as possible for the position you are interested in. We advise you to read the requirements of each internship position carefully, and to apply only if you meet those requirements. You may apply to a maximum of three positions.
Selection Stages:
- May-June: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and qualifications.
- May-June (shortlisted candidates): Interviews are conducted.
- July-September: Final selections are made.