The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Young Associates Programme (YAP) is a highly competitive, two-year paid opportunity in Paris for recent Bachelor’s graduates. The program is designed as a springboard for future postgraduate studies and a career in international policy. Young Associates work at the heart of global policy-making, contributing to research and analysis on pressing socio-economic challenges while receiving mentorship from senior OECD staff.
Financial Benefits and Program Details
The programme is fully funded and provides a comprehensive benefits package:
- Monthly Salary: Associates receive a monthly salary of €3,886, which is exempt from French income tax.
- Leaving Allowance: A leaving allowance of approximately €21,000 is provided at the end of the 24-month assignment.
- Additional Allowances: Associates may be eligible for an expatriation allowance, home leave, an installation allowance (equal to one month’s salary for single candidates), and reimbursement for travel and relocation expenses.
- Medical Insurance: The programme includes comprehensive medical insurance.
- Location: The two-year assignment is based at the OECD Headquarters in Paris, France.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026-2028 YAP cycle, candidates must meet the following strict requirements:
- Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with a graduation date between January 1, 2025, and September 1, 2026. Crucially, applicants who already hold or are enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or equivalent degree are not eligible.
- Nationality: Must be a national of an OECD Member country.
- Academic Achievement: Possess a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Languages: Be fluent in one of the two OECD official languages (English or French) and demonstrate a commitment to reaching a good working level of the other.
- Availability: Must be able to start the two-year assignment in Paris in September 2026.
Application and Selection Process
The selection process follows a clear timeline:
- Applications Open: November 14, 2025.
- Application Deadline: December 14, 2025 (23:59 CET).
- How to Apply: Applications, including a CV and cover letter, must be submitted through the official OECD Careers website.
- Selection Stages:
- December 2025: Application screening and online aptitude tests for eligible candidates.
- January – February 2026: Retained candidates advance to video interviews and written assessments.
- March – April 2026: Final selections are made and employment offers are sent.
- September 2026: The programme commences in Paris.
Application Link:
The application portal will open on November 14, 2025. Please refer to the official OECD careers page for position details and the application form.
