Fully Funded: IFAD Internship Programme 2025

The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), a specialised agency of the United Nations and an international financial institution, is firmly committed to the eradication of rural poverty and hunger across the globe.

Through strategic investments in rural communities, IFAD plays a vital role in improving agricultural productivity, boosting rural incomes, and promoting sustainable development. As part of its comprehensive efforts to foster rural transformation, IFAD also advocates for inclusive and equitable policies at the local, national, and international levels.

To support its mission and cultivate a new generation of development professionals, IFAD offers two distinct internship tracks: the Regular Internship Programme (IP) and the Enhanced Internship Programme (EIP). Both tracks are designed to provide recent university graduates and currently enrolled students with an exceptional opportunity to gain firsthand experience in international development, while contributing meaningfully to IFAD’s strategic initiatives.

Programme Overview

The IFAD Internship Programme spans a six-month duration and is tailored to individuals who are passionate about global development, agriculture, sustainability, and rural innovation. Interns are integrated into the organisation’s teams, where they work alongside experienced professionals and contribute to ongoing projects that directly support IFAD’s mandate.

Whether based at headquarters or in one of IFAD’s country, multi-country, or regional offices, interns benefit from a dynamic and diverse working environment.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for participation in the internship programme, candidates must meet a defined set of criteria. These include:

• Educational Enrollment: Applicants must either be currently enrolled in an accredited university or graduate school and have attended courses within the last 12 months, or have recently completed their academic studies at either the undergraduate or postgraduate level.
• Academic Progress: Students must have completed at least two years of undergraduate studies before the commencement of the internship.
• Age Requirement: Candidates must be 30 years of age or younger at the time of application.

• Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required for all applicants. Proficiency in other official IFAD languages—such as French, Spanish, or Arabic—is considered an asset. For positions based in country offices, fluency in the local language may also be necessary.

The Enhanced Internship Programme, in particular, is designed to promote greater geographic diversity within IFAD. It specifically encourages applications from qualified candidates who meet the general eligibility criteria but are not based in Rome. In recognition of the additional challenges faced by these applicants, the EIP offers a more comprehensive support package.

Financial Support and Benefits

Interns accepted under both programmes receive a monthly allowance to help cover basic living expenses. In addition, those selected for the Enhanced Internship Programme receive a housing and travel allowance, ensuring equitable access to internship opportunities for candidates from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.

Beyond financial support, IFAD internships offer an immersive professional development experience. Interns gain exposure to international policy dialogue, sustainable development strategies, and agricultural innovation. They also have opportunities to participate in high-level meetings, collaborate with global experts, and contribute to impactful, mission-driven work.

Application Process

Prospective candidates must register and create a personal profile through IFAD’s online application system. Applications can be submitted by clicking the “Apply” button provided in the programme listing. As competition for positions is high, applicants are encouraged to submit a well-crafted application that clearly demonstrates their motivation, academic background, and alignment with IFAD’s mission and goals.

Why Choose IFAD

Joining IFAD as an intern means becoming part of a global community that is dedicated to achieving food security, reducing rural poverty, and empowering marginalised populations.

The internship experience is not only a stepping stone to future employment within international development organisations, but also an opportunity to develop meaningful skills, forge valuable professional connections, and make a tangible difference in the lives of rural people.

Whether through the Regular or Enhanced Internship Programme, IFAD remains committed to nurturing talent, fostering innovation, and building the leadership capacity necessary to address the challenges of global food systems and rural development.

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