OECD Legal Internship – Apply Now for 2025-2026 Opportunity
The OECD Legal Internship is an exceptional chance for law students and graduates to gain international exposure, strengthen their analytical skills, and contribute to meaningful policy development. Ideal for law students seeking practical legal experience, this internship offers a unique opportunity to work with global policy experts, legal researchers, and international organizations. Whether you are pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degree in law or related fields, this internship enhances your understanding of the legal profession in a global policy-making context.
About the Organization / University
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) is a premier international institution that works with governments around the world to address a broad spectrum of policy challenges, including artificial intelligence, climate change, regulatory frameworks, and education. Founded in 1961, OECD’s mission is to build better policies for better lives by fostering economic growth, employment, and social well-being.
The OECD Legal Internship provides students the chance to directly engage with policy development processes while supporting corporate and research functions. Interns are integrated into teams and given responsibilities that align with their skill sets and academic background. The organisation values diversity, curiosity, and initiative, encouraging interns to contribute meaningfully while developing professional networks across member countries.
Selected interns can work in-person, hybrid, or fully remote, depending on team needs, offering flexible arrangements that accommodate various schedules. This flexibility allows law students to gain valuable international exposure without logistical constraints.
About the Internship / Opportunity
During the OECD Legal Internship, participants will engage in a variety of professional tasks, including:
- Preparing studies and documents relevant to ongoing OECD projects.
- Conducting research and reviewing existing materials to support policy initiatives.
- Collecting, organizing, and analyzing data to inform reports and recommendations.
- Supporting the production of documents, working papers, and publications, including drafting notes and preparing technical annexes.
- Participating in meetings, seminars, and workshops, gaining first-hand insights into international legal processes.
- Liaising and building networks with officials in national administrations, researchers, other international organizations, and delegations from member countries.
- Assisting in event organization, communications, planning, and evaluation efforts.
This internship allows law students to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical, global context, enhancing their understanding of policy-making, international law, and corporate legal functions. The experience gained here is invaluable for students aspiring to careers in international law, governance, and public policy.
Duration: Flexible, based on the department and intern availability.
Working Hours: Standard OECD office hours (typically 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM CET).
Event Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Ongoing |
| Application Deadline | Rolling, throughout the year |
| Internship Period | Flexible, based on selection |
Location and Mode
Mode: Offline / Hybrid / Online (depending on team requirements)
Location / Address: OECD Headquarters, Paris, France
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | Flexible (Typically 3–6 months) |
| Working Hours | Standard OECD Office Hours |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Designated OECD Team Leader or Policy Expert |
Eligibility & Requirements
Candidates eligible for the OECD Legal Internship must be enrolled in a fully accredited degree programme throughout the internship, including bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD degrees in law or related disciplines. Ideal applicants are curious, motivated, and capable of working independently as well as collaboratively in a multicultural, international environment.
Applicants should possess strong analytical, research, and communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality written work. While no prior international experience is mandatory, interns are expected to demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and a genuine interest in contributing to policy development.
The internship is ideal for law students seeking practical exposure to international law and policy, helping them build a foundation for careers in global governance, corporate law, or human rights advocacy.
Additional Highlights
- Certificate of Completion
- Unpaid Internship (flexible arrangements; details upon selection)
- Mentorship by experienced policy experts and legal professionals
- Networking opportunities with international officials, researchers, and diplomats
- Professional exposure to global legal and policy frameworks
- Possibility of pre-placement consideration for outstanding interns
FAQs about OECD Legal Internship
1. Who can apply for this OECD Legal Internship?
Students enrolled in fully accredited law or related degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD) during the internship duration are eligible. Candidates should be curious, motivated, and eager to contribute to OECD policy and legal work.
2. Is this OECD Legal Internship paid or unpaid?
This internship is unpaid. However, it offers mentorship, international exposure, networking, and a certificate of completion, making it highly valuable for career development.
3. What is the last date to apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year, giving flexibility to interested candidates.
4. What is the selection process?
The selection process is based on academic qualifications, relevant experience, analytical and research skills, and alignment with OECD’s mission. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes, all selected interns receive a Certificate of Completion, validating their international internship experience.
Important Links
Downloadables
- Sample Cover Letter
Contact Information
- Email: internships@oecd.org
- Phone: +33 1 4524 9260
- Address: OECD Headquarters, 2 rue André Pascal, 75775 Paris Cedex 16, France