The OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) 2026–2028 is now open for applications. Recent Bachelor’s graduates can earn €3,886 per month while gaining two years of policy experience in Paris. Apply by 14 December 2025.
Overview: OECD Young Associates Programme 2026–2028
The OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a prestigious two-year, fully paid policy placement designed for outstanding recent graduates seeking international careers in public policy, research, and global cooperation. Based at OECD headquarters in Paris, the programme provides early-career professionals with hands-on involvement in shaping global socio-economic policies, supporting research, and contributing to high-level international projects.
With competitive pay, structured mentorship, and direct exposure to world-leading policy experts, YAP serves as a launchpad for future postgraduate study and international public service careers.
Applications for the 2026–2028 cohort are now open.
About the Young Associates Programme
Each Young Associate (YA) works within a specific OECD Directorate or special body, contributing to analytical work, research, policy development, event coordination, and strategic initiatives. YAs collaborate with senior managers, technical experts, external institutions, and government representatives while developing essential competencies in policy analysis, communication, data interpretation, and multilateral cooperation.
Typical responsibilities include:
- Conducting research and background analysis
- Drafting technical papers, briefs, and reports
- Supporting conferences, workshops, and ministerial meetings
- Working with internal and external stakeholders
- Monitoring policy trends and contributing to strategic recommendations
Throughout the programme, each Young Associate is mentored by a senior OECD official to support professional growth and postgraduate study preparation.
Directorates Hosting Young Associates (2026–2028)
Successful applicants will be placed in one of the following OECD divisions:
| Directorate / Body | Placement Focus |
|---|---|
| Financial & Enterprise Affairs (DAF) | OECD Working Group on Bribery |
| Economics Department (ECO) | Office of the Chief Economist |
| Employment, Labour & Social Affairs (ELS) | Health data linkage & socio-economic/demographic analysis |
| Environment Directorate (ENV) | Climate finance assessments |
| Financial Action Task Force (FATF) | Anti-money laundering & counter-terrorism financing |
| Public Governance Directorate (GOV) | Director’s Office |
| International Energy Agency (IEA) | Energy security data processes & training |
| International Energy Agency (IEA) | World Energy Outlook team |
| Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) | Data flows, governance & privacy |
| Science, Technology & Innovation (STI) | Digital transformation, firms, tech diffusion |
| Trade & Agriculture Directorate (TAD) | Director’s Office |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the OECD YAP 2026–2028, candidates must meet all the following requirements:
Minimum Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree obtained between 1 January 2025 and 1 September 2026
- Not currently enrolled in or holding a Master’s or PhD
- National of an OECD member country
- Minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0
- Fluency in English or French, with willingness to learn the other
- Strong motivation to pursue future graduate studies
- Ability to relocate to Paris, France in September 2026
- Demonstrated capacity for policy analysis, research, and teamwork
Preferred Qualifications
- Coursework or academic focus related to the assigned area
- Previous research, thesis work, or policy-oriented projects
- Relevant internships or work experience
- Strong analytical, communication, and drafting skills
- Clear long-term plans aligned with the programme
Selection Process Timeline
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 14 November 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 14 December 2025 (23:59 CET) |
| Screening & Online Test | December 2025 |
| Video Interviews & Written Assessments | January–February 2026 |
| Final Selection & Offers | March–April 2026 |
| Start Date in Paris | September 2026 |
Salary and Benefits
Young Associates receive a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package:
Base Compensation
- Monthly salary: €3,886 (tax-exempt in France)
- Leaving allowance: ~€21,000 (in lieu of pension contributions)
Possible Additional Benefits
- Expatriation allowance
- Installation allowance (equivalent to one month’s salary)
- Home leave allowance
- Reimbursement of relocation and travel expenses
- Comprehensive medical insurance
This makes the OECD YAP one of the most attractive early-career international policy programmes globally.
How to Apply
- Visit the OECD Careers portal.
- Search for the Young Associates Programme 2026–2028 vacancy.
- Complete the online eligibility test.
- Prepare your application documents, including:
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts
- GPA information
- Responses to application questions
- Submit your application by 14 December 2025 (23:59 CET).
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) |
| Duration | 2 years (2026–2028) |
| Salary | €3,886 per month |
| Location | Paris, France |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s degree only |
| Nationality | OECD member countries |
| Deadline | 14 December 2025 |
| Start Date | September 2026 |
| Benefits | Tax-free salary, relocation, insurance, allowances |
| Application Mode | Online |
Conclusion
The OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) 2026–2028 is one of the most competitive early-career opportunities for future policymakers, economists, researchers, and development professionals. With a fully paid two-year placement in Paris, expert mentorship, and a salary of €3,886 per month, this programme offers an unparalleled launchpad into international public policy and postgraduate studies.
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