Consilium Traineeships EU Paid Internship in Belgium 2026/27 (Funded)

Funded By: Council of the European Union

Posted Date: February 20, 2026

Deadline: 19 March 2026

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Apply for Consilium Traineeships at the Council of the European Union. Paid EU internship in Brussels with monthly grant. Start your journey today.

Overview of Consilium Traineeships at the Council of the European Union

The Consilium Traineeships at the Council of the European Union offer a prestigious paid internship opportunity for graduates who want to gain direct experience inside EU institutions. Hosted in Brussels, this programme allows young professionals to contribute to real EU policymaking processes.

Consilium Traineeships EU Paid Internship in Belgium
Consilium Traineeships EU Paid Internship in Belgium

The traineeship provides first-hand exposure to how the Council and its General Secretariat operate, supporting member states in legislative coordination and political decision-making. With approximately 110 trainees selected each year, it is one of the most competitive EU internship opportunities.

If you are passionate about European governance and international affairs, Apply now and secure your future in EU policy.

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Details of the Paid EU Internship in Brussels

  • Host Institution: Council of the European Union
  • Location: Brussels, Belgium
  • Programme Type: Paid EU Internship
  • Traineeship Cycle: September – January and February – June
  • Number of Positions: Around 110 per year
  • Application Deadline (Current Cycle): 19 March 2026

The traineeship period for the upcoming cycle runs from 1 September 2026 to 31 January 2027. This is a structured professional programme designed for graduates seeking hands-on EU institutional experience.

Eligibility Criteria for Consilium Traineeships

Who Can Apply for the Council of the EU Paid Internship?

Applicants must meet the following conditions:

  • Be a citizen of an EU Member State
  • Hold at least a completed university degree
  • Have strong interest in EU governance, law, policy, or administration
  • Possess good knowledge of at least two EU official languages
  • Demonstrate motivation to work in a multicultural environment

The programme targets young graduates and early-career professionals who want to build careers in EU institutions, diplomacy, public administration, or international policy.

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Benefits of the Fully Funded Consilium Traineeship

The Consilium traineeship is a fully funded opportunity designed to support interns during their stay in Brussels.

Financial Benefits and Professional Support

  • Monthly paid grant
  • Additional allowances and benefits
  • Professional mentoring and institutional guidance
  • Real exposure to EU policy-making
  • Multicultural working environment

Trainees receive financial compensation to help cover living expenses in Brussels, making it a highly attractive paid EU internship programme. There is also a Positive Action Programme reserving up to six positions annually for EU nationals with a recognised disability, ensuring inclusive access and tailored workplace support.

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Duration of the EU Council Traineeship Programme

The Council offers two traineeship cycles per year:

  • 1 February – 30 June
  • 1 September – 31 January

Each traineeship lasts five months. This structured duration allows trainees to gain meaningful professional experience while contributing to the Council’s daily operations.

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Traineeship Tracks and Work Areas in EU Policy

Policy, Legal, Communication, and Administrative Fields

Trainees are placed in various departments within the General Secretariat of the Council. Possible areas include:

  • EU law and legislative affairs
  • International relations
  • Economic and financial policy
  • Communication and media
  • Human resources and administration
  • Digital and IT services

This is not a university scholarship but a professional institutional internship programme.

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Is a Supervisor Required for the Consilium Traineeship?

  • No supervisor is required.

Applicants do not need to contact academic supervisors or secure institutional endorsement before applying. Selection is based solely on eligibility, qualifications, and motivation.

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Universities Under This Programme and Offered Study Fields

The Consilium traineeship is not linked to specific universities.

There are no partner universities under this programme because it is a professional EU institutional traineeship rather than an academic scholarship.

However, eligible academic backgrounds typically include:

  • European Studies
  • Law
  • Political Science
  • International Relations
  • Economics
  • Public Administration
  • Communication
  • Public Policy

Graduates from any recognised university in relevant fields may apply.

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Required Documents for the Council of the European Union Internship

Applicants must prepare:

  • Completed online application form
  • Proof of university degree
  • Language proficiency details
  • Supporting documents as required by the application portal

All documents must be submitted through the official online platform within the application window.

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Application Process for Consilium Traineeships in Brussels

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online

  • Check eligibility criteria carefully.
  • Gather all required documents.
  • Complete the online application form via the official portal.
  • Submit before the deadline.
  • There is no application fee.

Applications are only open during specific periods each year. Late submissions are not accepted. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain real EU institutional experience. Start your journey today.

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Apply Now for the Paid EU Internship in Brussels

The Consilium Traineeship Programme offers direct access to European policymaking at one of the EU’s most influential institutions. Working inside the Council of the European Union in Brussels gives you practical experience, international exposure, and a competitive advantage for future careers in governance and diplomacy.

If you are serious about building a career in European affairs, this is your chance to step into the heart of EU decision-making.


Apply now, secure your future, and take advantage of this fully funded opportunity to work in Brussels.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Yes. It is a paid traineeship that provides a monthly grant and allowances to support living costs in Brussels.
The general traineeship programme is primarily open to EU citizens. Applicants should check the official eligibility rules before applying.
Work experience is not mandatory, but relevant academic or professional background in EU affairs, law, or policy strengthens your application.
It is highly competitive, with around 110 positions available annually. Strong motivation, academic performance, and relevant skills are important.
No, the traineeship does not guarantee employment. However, it significantly enhances career prospects within EU institutions and international organisations.

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