ESN Traineeships 2026: Internships at Erasmus Student Network Headquarters in Brussels

Are you a motivated student or recent graduate seeking hands-on experience in an international NGO? The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) is inviting applications for multiple traineeships at its headquarters in Brussels, offering a unique opportunity to grow your skills in communication, policy, project management, and digital marketing while contributing to student mobility across Europe.

About Erasmus Student Network (ESN)

Founded in 1989, ESN is the largest student network in Europe, representing international students and fostering cultural understanding through the principle of Students Helping Students. With over 500 local sections across 44 countries, ESN provides opportunities for learning, development, and active participation in international mobility projects.

ESN headquarters in Brussels coordinates the network, supports international student mobility, and drives initiatives in education, digital transformation, sustainability, inclusion, and youth engagement.

Available Traineeships at ESN Headquarters

The ESN headquarters is offering a range of traineeship positions starting September 1, 2026, for 6–12 months (duration flexible). Candidates must secure an Erasmus+ traineeship grant and be willing to relocate to Brussels.

1. Communications and Content Strategy Trainee

Role Overview:
Support ESN’s communications with a focus on strategic outreach, digital storytelling, and content creation across social media, websites, and newsletters. Perfect for aspiring media and communications professionals.

Key Responsibilities:

• Social media management and content production (TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, Bluesky)
• Website management (ESN.org) and editorial content creation
• Copywriting, newsletter design, and article production
• Photography, video, and graphic design for mobility promotion
• Contributing to ESN publications and collecting testimonials

Qualifications:

• Fluent in English
• Background in communication, media, or graphic design
• Knowledge of Canva, Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator
• Highly proactive, organized, and adaptable in multicultural settings

Benefits:

• Accommodation allowance: €700/month
• Travel allowance: €50/month
• Flight reimbursement: up to €275
• Insurance coverage: Public Liability & Personal Accident

Download PDF,  to learn more.

2. Multimedia and Visual Communication Trainee

Role Overview:
Focus on creating visual and multimedia content to communicate ESN activities and mobility opportunities effectively.

Key Responsibilities:

• Graphic design and multimedia content production for digital and print
• Social media management and visual storytelling
• Photography and video production
• Editorial content creation and contributions to ESN publications

Qualifications:

• Experience in graphic design, multimedia, or visual communication
• Familiarity with social media marketing and Adobe Suite
• Proactive, organized, and collaborative in a multicultural environment

Download PDF to learn more.

3. Youth Projects Trainee

Role Overview:
Support planning, implementation, and reporting of youth projects, non-formal education, and volunteer capacity-building initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organize training events and international projects
• Assist in research, manual/toolkit production, and reporting
• Support active citizenship, youth participation, and student well-being projects

Qualifications:

• Strong written communication and organizational skills
• Experience with training events, volunteering, or non-formal education is a plus

Download PDF to learn more.

4. Policy & Project Trainee – Traineeships, Skills, Employability, and Digital Transformation

Role Overview:
Engage in EU higher education policy research, project development, and advocacy in areas such as employability, digital skills, and mobility programmes.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor policy developments in Erasmus+ and higher education
• Support policy research, focus groups, and data analysis
• Draft position papers, briefs, and advocacy materials
• Assist in event preparation and EU-funded project implementation

Qualifications:

• Knowledge of EU policies and higher education trends
• Strong analytical, organizational, and proactive skills

Download PDF, to learn more.

5. Policy & Project Trainee – Inclusion, Student-Centred Teaching and Learning, and Sustainability

Role Overview:
Contribute to initiatives promoting inclusive education, student-centred teaching approaches, and sustainable mobility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support development and implementation of inclusion and sustainability projects
• Conduct policy research and assist in advocacy efforts
• Draft policy briefs, event materials, and participate in EU-funded initiatives

Qualifications:

• Interest in inclusion, education, and sustainability policy
• Experience in volunteering and policy advocacy is a plus

Download PDF to learn more.

6. Digital Marketing Trainee

Role Overview:
Support ESN’s digital marketing initiatives, partnership campaigns, and online communications while gaining hands-on experience in marketing analytics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Plan and execute marketing campaigns for commercial partners
• Manage social media and newsletters, run paid ads
• Conduct market research and data analysis
• Maintain CMS and support project teams

Qualifications:

• Background in marketing, business, communications, or related field
• Familiarity with social media, analytics, SEO, SEM, Google Ads, Canva, or Photoshop
• Strong analytical, proactive, and team-oriented attitude

Download PDF, to learm more.

Terms and Conditions for All Traineeships

• Duration: 6–12 months (flexible)
• Start Date: 1st September 2026
• Location: Brussels, Belgium
• Allowance & Benefits:
  • Accommodation: €700/month
  • Travel allowance: €50/month
  • Flight reimbursement up to €275
  • Insurance: Public Liability & Personal Accident
• Requirement: Erasmus+ traineeship grant

How to Apply

• Submit your motivation letter, CV, and portfolio (if applicable) via the ESN application form by 22 April 2026, 23:59 CEST.
• Confirm eligibility for an Erasmus+ traineeship grant with your university before applying.

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