Closed Fully Funded

IFAD Enhanced Internship Programme 2026 | Paid Internships

Last updated Jul 23, 2026

Deadline

2026-07-16

Country

Italy, Various

Level

undergraduate, masters

Organization

International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Field

Agriculture, International Development, Rural Development, Food Security

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The IFAD Enhanced Internship Programme (EIP) 2026 is an international internship offered by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialized agency of the United Nations and an international financial institution. IFAD's mission is to eliminate rural poverty and hunger globally. This program offers students and recent university graduates a unique opportunity to gain experience in international development and agriculture, understand IFAD's functions, mission, and core values, and contribute to empowering rural communities. The internship duration is six months. Interns may be placed at IFAD's headquarters in Rome, Italy, or in various IFAD country, regional, or multicountry offices.

Coverage

This is a fully-funded internship. EIP interns receive a higher monthly stipend designed to cover living expenses, including housing and travel costs, thereby reducing financial burdens.

Eligibility

Open to recent university graduates and current students specializing in fields relevant to IFAD’s mission. Current students must be enrolled in a university or graduate school, have attended courses within the last 24 months, and completed at least two years of undergraduate studies upon joining the program. Applicants must be 30 years of age or younger. The program aims to enhance the geographic distribution of staff at IFAD, particularly by offering opportunities to candidates not based in Rome. Proficiency in English is essential. Proficiency in other official IFAD languages is advantageous. For interns recruited in IFAD country offices, proficiency in the main country language may be necessary.

Requirements

Applicants are expected to meet the academic and age criteria outlined in the eligibility section. Specific required documents include an application form, a customized cover letter for each position, and other documents to be uploaded online.

How to apply

The application process is entirely online and free of charge. Interested candidates must first register and create a profile on the official IFAD careers website. After registration, navigate to the "view all jobs" section and select the internship programme. Applicants should carefully review the minimum requirements and ensure they submit a customized cover letter for each internship position they apply for.

Notes

This is an excellent opportunity for international students and graduates to intern at a UN agency. There is no application fee.

Source & Verification

Host organization: International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)

Original source: OpportunitiesCircle

Official application page: https://www.ifad.org/en/internship-programme

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.