Apply for the Council of the European Union Paid EU Traineeship 2026–2027. 5-month programme in Brussels with €1,538.16 monthly grant. Deadline: 19 March 2026.
The Council of the European Union has opened applications for its Paid Traineeship Programme (September 2026 – January 2027 intake).
This prestigious EU traineeship offers graduates first-hand experience of how the European Union operates at institutional level, with approximately 100 paid positions available each year.
Key Traineeship Details
- Host Institution: Council of the European Union
- Location: Brussels, Belgium
- Start Date: 01 September 2026
- Duration: 5 months
- Monthly Grant: €1,538.16
- Application Deadline: 19 March 2026 (12:00 Brussels Time)
About the EU Traineeship Programme
The traineeship provides participants with direct exposure to:
- EU legislative processes
- Policy coordination between Member States
- Institutional operations within the Council
- International diplomacy and governance
Trainees work alongside EU officials, contributing to policy research, administrative coordination, legal drafting, communications, and more.
What Trainees Gain
1. Financial Support
A monthly traineeship grant of €1,538.16 to support living expenses in Brussels.
2. Institutional Experience
Hands-on experience within one of the EU’s core decision-making institutions.
3. Professional Development
Exposure to EU policy, negotiation processes, and international governance.
4. International Networking
Opportunity to collaborate with professionals from across EU Member States.
5. Career Advancement
EU traineeships significantly strengthen profiles for careers in European institutions, international organisations, public policy, and diplomacy.
Who Should Apply?
The programme is ideal for:
- University graduates
- Young professionals interested in EU governance
- Candidates seeking experience in international policy, law, economics, political science, or related fields
While eligibility criteria are detailed on the official EU portal, applicants typically must:
- Hold at least a university degree
- Have strong language skills (English and/or another EU language)
- Be nationals of an EU Member State (some non-EU nationals may also be eligible under specific conditions)
Programme Timeline
- Application Deadline: 19 March 2026
- Selection Process: Spring–Early Summer 2026
- Traineeship Period: 01 September 2026 – January 2027
How to Apply For Council of the European Union Paid EU Traineeship 2026
- Visit the official Council of the EU traineeship portal.
- Create an online application profile.
- Submit required documentation before 12:00 (Brussels Time) on 19 March 2026.
- Await notification if shortlisted.
Late applications will not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is the traineeship paid?
Yes. Trainees receive a monthly grant of €1,538.16.
How long is the traineeship?
Five months (September 2026 – January 2027).
Where is the traineeship based?
Brussels, Belgium.
How many positions are available?
Approximately 100 paid traineeships each year.
Is this programme competitive?
Yes. Selection is merit-based and highly competitive.
Conclusion
The Council of the European Union Paid Traineeship 2026–2027 offers a structured, fully funded opportunity to gain direct experience within one of the EU’s most influential institutions.
With a competitive monthly grant and exposure to European policymaking, this traineeship is an excellent opportunity for graduates aiming to build careers in international governance and diplomacy.
Application deadline: 19 March 2026 (12:00 Brussels Time).
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