OECD Young Associates Programme (YAP) 2026–2028: A Fully Paid Two-Year Policy Fellowship in Paris

Applications for the 2026–2028 Young Associates Programme are now open, and the deadline to apply is 14 December 2025. If you dream of working in Paris, contributing to cutting-edge policy reforms, and preparing for graduate study, this program is an exceptional opportunity.

The Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a two-year programme targeted at recent undergraduates who wish to gain a significant first professional experience in the world of multilateral policy making, research and analysis. The Programme provides support for talented students with an interest in policy making who wish to pursue future postgraduate studies.

OECD Young Associates work closely with senior managers, gaining exposure to tackling some of today’s most pressing social and economic policy challenges. Day-to-day tasks may involve background research, drafting, liaising with partners internally and externally, and assisting in the coordination of events ranging from policy forums to ministerial conferences. Senior managers will act as mentors throughout the programme, with a focus on developing professional competences and research expertise – and providing a solid foundation for future academic success.

What Is the OECD Young Associates Programme?

The Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a two-year, full-time professional development programme designed for talented recent undergraduates interested in multilateral public policy, research, and global affairs. It provides:

• Direct mentorship from OECD senior managers

• Exposure to high-level policy work

• Hands-on experience in research, analysis, and event coordination

• A strong foundation for future Master’s or PhD studies in relevant fields

Young Associates collaborate on critical policy issues—from climate action and economic analysis to digital transformation and global governance.

Where Will Young Associates Work? (2026–2028 Host Directorates)

Selected candidates will be assigned to one of the following OECD directorates or special bodies:

Directorates & Work Areas

• Directorate for Financial and Enterprise Affairs (DAF): OECD Working Group on Bribery

• Economics Department (ECO): Office of the Chief Economist

• Directorate for Employment, Labour & Social Affairs (ELS): Health data linkage and socio-economic analysis

• Environment Directorate (ENV): Climate finance assessment

• Financial Action Task Force (FATF): Anti-Money Laundering & Counter-Terrorist Financing

• Directorate for Public Governance (GOV): Director’s Office

• International Energy Agency (IEA):

  • Energy security data and training

  • World Energy Outlook

• Science, Technology and Innovation Directorate (STI):

  • Data governance, privacy & digital flows

  • Digital transformation and technology diffusion

• Trade and Agriculture Directorate (TAD): Director’s Office

This diversity of placements gives candidates the opportunity to work on some of today’s most pressing global issues.

Who Is Eligible?

To apply for the YAP 2026–2028 cycle, candidates must:

To be eligible for the YAP 2026-28 round, candidates must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s or equivalent degree with graduation date between 1 January 2025 and 1 September 2026 in the academic field related to the position(s) of interest (Applications from candidates who already hold or are enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or equivalent degree are not considered)
• Hold a nationality of an OECD Member country (Applications from candidates who are not OECD Member country nationals are not considered)
• Demonstrate overall academic achievement with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale (Please see the GPA conversion tool)
• Have fluency in one of the two OECD official languages (English and French) and a commitment to reach a good working level of the other after joining the OECD
• Demonstrate the ability to contribute as a Young Associate in the area of work, as well as demonstrate motivation to pursue a graduate degree in a relevant field after completing the Programme.
• Be able to start the Programme in September 2026 in Paris, France for the two-year assignment.

In addition, it is an asset if candidates demonstrate they:

• Hold a degree or have completed coursework in the relevant academic fields required for the position
• Have conducted research, written reports, or a thesis related to the work area
• Possess relevant work experience for the position
• Demonstrate the required skills and competencies
• Understand how their participation in the Programme could contribute to their future academic and professional plans.

Selection Timeline for YAP 2026–2028

Recruitment for the YAP 2026-28 round:

• 14 November 2025: YAP positions are advertised and applications (CVs and cover letters) are accepted through the OECD Careers website. Candidates may apply to more than one relevant position
• 14 December 2025: Deadline for submission of applications at 23:59 CET.
• December 2025: Applications are screened, and elegible candidates are invited to complete an online aptitude test.
• January-February 2026: Retained candidates will advance through a series of assessments, which may include video interviews and a written assessment. Only those who are successful at each stage will be invited to participate in the subsequent assessments.
• March-April 2026: Final selections are made and employment offers are sent to successful candidates.
• September 2026: Young Associates take up duty in Paris, France.

Applicants can apply for multiple positions, provided they match the required profiles.

Special Invitation: Live YAP Webinar on 24 November 2025

Join the official YAP Live Webinar to learn:

• How to write a standout CV and cover letter

• What to expect at each assessment stage

• Tips from current Young Associates

• Answers to your questions during a live Q&A

📅 24 November 2025
🕓 14:00 (Paris time)

Register via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7389256264297435136/

Salary and Benefits

The OECD provides a competitive compensation package, including:

Monthly Salary

• €3,886 per month
  (Exempt from French income tax; standard deductions apply)

Additional Benefits

In addition, Young Associates may be eligible for the following allowances as established by the Staff Regulations:

• Leaving allowance: approx. €21,000 (24-month assignment)

• Medical insurance

• Expatriation allowance & home leave

• Installation allowance: one month’s salary for single candidates

• Reimbursement of travel and relocation expenses

This makes the YAP one of the most financially accessible early-career international programmes.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted exclusively through the OECD Careers Portal (English). If you want to apply with the French language portal, please check here .
Prepare the following:

• A polished CV

• A compelling cover letter tailored to each position

• Academic transcripts

• Any relevant research samples (if required)

For questions, email: YoungAssociate@oecd.org

Useful Resources

• Young Associates Programme Video

Source:

French https://www.oecd.org/fr/about/careers/young-associates.html

English: https://www.oecd.org/en/about/careers/young-associates.html