Become a European Commission trainee – applications are now open | Apply by September 4

The European Commission has opened applications for its annual Blue Book Traineeship programme in March–July 2027.

The Blue Book Traineeship programme is a five-month paid internship offered by the European Commission, providing young graduates from around the world with hands-on experience in EU policymaking and administration.

The March 2027 session will last for five months and give applicants the opportunity to apply to around 1,000 positions in the Commission’s many departments, services and agencies split between Brussels, Luxembourg and the national bureaus in the 27 EU Member States.

All EU citizens are eligible, and a limited number of positions are allocated to non-EU nationals, including from the Eastern Partnership, in specific Directorates-General or Services.

Traineeships are split into two types: Administrative Traineeships and Translation Traineeships unique to the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT). Scientific traineeships are also available at the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC).

There’s no age limit for applicants. You will need to have completed a standard 3-year higher education degree and be proficient in at least two EU official languages, one of which must be English, French or German. For the first time, the programme is now open to graduates of vocational education and training (VET) – so if you didn’t go to university, you may still be eligible.

Trainees are expected to have an open-minded approach to European issues, an interest in the Commission’s work, a proactive attitude and a willingness to work in a multicultural environment.

The selected trainees will receive a grant of €1,538 to cover their living expenses but must secure accommodation at their own initiative.

The daily work of a trainee consists of a diverse array of tasks, including attending and organising meetings, working groups, and public hearings, researching documents, answering citizens’ inquiries, and supporting the management of projects.

The application procedure will take place through the European Commission Authentication Service (EU Login) where applicants will need to register.

The deadline for applications is 4 September, 10am Brussels time.

Find out more

Press release

Blue Book Traineeship Programme

European Youth Portal – how to apply to the Blue Book traineeship programme

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