Deadline: October 17, 2025
Are you looking to gain valuable experience in EU security and defence policy while working in the heart of Europe? The European Security and Defence College Internship 2026 is now open for applications! This is an excellent opportunity for motivated students from EU Member States to develop professional skills, expand their networks, and work closely with experts in Brussels.
The internship aims to provide hands-on exposure to the European Union’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), making it a unique career development opportunity.
About the European Security and Defence College Internship 2026
The European Security and Defence College (ESDC) offers internships to give students a deeper understanding of EU security and defence policy within the framework of the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). Interns support ESDC activities, assist in programme implementation, and engage in meaningful administrative and organisational tasks.
Location: Brussels, Belgium (with occasional activities abroad)
Application Deadline: 17 October 2025
Internship Duties and Responsibilities
Successful interns will support the work of the ESDC through a wide range of responsibilities, including:
- Assisting in the preparation, implementation, and follow-up of ESDC courses, seminars, and conferences in Brussels and abroad.
- Drafting background briefs, reports, and preparing course materials.
- Supporting logistics and administrative tasks such as coordinating meetings, taking minutes, and post-processing sessions.
- Assisting in revising and updating eLearning modules.
- Supporting the maintenance of the annual ESDC training and course catalogue.
- Contributing to the drafting of the ESDC Annual Report and participating in knowledge management activities (lessons identified/lessons learnt).
- Proofreading official documents and drafting content for ESDC social media platforms.
This diverse role gives interns practical exposure to EU policy, strategic communication, and international cooperation.
Internship Benefits
The European Security and Defence College Internship 2026 offers the following benefits:
- A monthly allowance of €1,300. If you receive an external grant (e.g. Erasmus+), ESDC will top up your allowance to reach €1,300 in total.
- Reimbursement of travel expenses for occasional duty trips outside Brussels.
This makes the internship not only a learning experience but also financially supportive.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the internship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a national of an EU Member State.
- Be currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree relevant to the work of the ESDC and remain enrolled throughout the internship period.
- Hold valid health and accident insurance coverage for the duration of the internship.
- Be fluent in English or French (the EU’s working languages); knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.
Note: This internship is not open to non-EU nationals.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates must prepare and submit the following documents:
- A CV in Europass format, in English or French.
- A Motivation Letter, also in English or French.
All documents should be in PDF or Word format.
How to Apply:
Submit your application via email to: esdc-vacancies@eeas.europa.eu
Important Considerations
- Ensure that your university enrolment covers the entire internship duration, otherwise your application may not be considered.
- Applications must be complete and tailored to the ESDC’s work areas to stand out.
- Given the competitive nature of EU internships, a strong motivation letter is highly recommended.
Summary Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Internship Title | European Security and Defence College Internship 2026 |
| Location | Brussels, Belgium |
| Monthly Allowance | €1,300 |
| Deadline | 17 October 2025 |
| Eligibility | EU nationals currently enrolled in a relevant degree |
| Languages | English or French (fluency required) |
| Host Organisation | European Security and Defence College (ESDC) |
Useful Links
👉 Click here to Apply
👉 Read more about the Programme
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