The OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) is now open for applications for the 2026–2028 cycle, offering a rare opportunity for recent graduates to begin a meaningful international career in public policy, socio-economic research, and multilateral cooperation. This two-year, fully paid placement is designed for emerging talent eager to contribute to the work of one of the world’s most influential international organisations while preparing for future postgraduate study and long-term careers in global policy.
About the Young Associates Programme
The Young Associates Programme provides recent Bachelor’s graduates with the chance to work at the centre of international policy analysis and decision-making. Over the course of two years, Young Associates collaborate with senior managers and thematic experts across the Organisation’s directorates. The role is designed to build strong analytical, communication, and research capabilities through hands-on engagement with high-impact initiatives.
Daily responsibilities may include conducting background research, drafting reports and policy briefs, coordinating with internal and external partners, and supporting events such as workshops, policy dialogues, and ministerial meetings. Each Young Associate is paired with a dedicated senior mentor who provides professional guidance, supports development of key competencies, and helps the associate prepare for future graduate studies.
Applications for the 2026–2028 cohort are open until 14 December 2025.
Directorates Hosting Young Associates
For the 2026–2028 programme cycle, Young Associates will be placed within one of several OECD directorates or special bodies, each offering a distinct thematic focus:
- Directorate for Financial and Enterprise Affairs (DAF): Supporting the OECD Working Group on Bribery
- Economics Department (ECO): Office of the Chief Economist
- Directorate for Employment, Labour and Social Affairs (ELS): Data linkage and socio-economic and demographic analysis for health
- Environment Directorate (ENV): Assessing finance for climate action
- Financial Action Task Force (FATF): Anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing
- Directorate for Public Governance (GOV): Director’s Office
- International Energy Agency (IEA): Energy security data processes and training
- International Energy Agency (IEA): World Energy Outlook
- Science, Technology and Innovation Directorate (STI): Data flows, governance and privacy
- Science, Technology and Innovation Directorate (STI): Firms, digital transformation and technology diffusion
- Trade and Agriculture Directorate (TAD): Director’s Office
Eligibility Requirements
The OECD provides an eligibility self-assessment tool, but applicants must meet the following core criteria:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) obtained between 1 January 2025 and 1 September 2026
- Not be enrolled in or already hold a Master’s or PhD degree
- Be a national of an OECD member country
- Have a minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA or equivalent
- Be fluent in English or French and committed to developing proficiency in the second language
- Demonstrate strong motivation and potential to contribute to the assigned work area
- Show clear intention to pursue postgraduate studies after completing the programme
- Be available to relocate to Paris and start the two-year placement in September 2026
Additional desirable qualities include:
- Coursework or academic background aligned with the chosen directorate
- Previous research or thesis relevant to the thematic area
- Work or internship experience
- Demonstrated analytical, organisational or communication competencies
- A clear long-term academic and professional vision linked to the programme
Selection Timeline
- 14 November 2025: Applications open
- 14 December 2025 (23:59 CET): Application deadline
- December 2025: Screening and online aptitude testing
- January–February 2026: Video interviews and written assessments
- March–April 2026: Final selection and offers issued
- September 2026: Young Associates commence duty in Paris
Compensation and Benefits
Young Associates receive a competitive OECD salary and benefits package. Key elements include:
- Monthly salary: EUR 3,886, exempt from French income tax
- Leaving allowance: Approx. EUR 21,000 in lieu of pension contributions
Eligible candidates may also receive:
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- Expatriation allowance and periodic home leave
- Installation allowance (equivalent to one month’s salary for single candidates)
- Reimbursement of travel and relocation costs
These benefits support Young Associates in establishing themselves in Paris and contributing effectively during the two-year placement.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the OECD Careers website by 14 December 2025. Candidates are encouraged to review the eligibility tool, prepare relevant documentation, and clearly articulate their motivation, competencies, and future academic plans.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
