Traineeship

Traineeship in an EU institution is a very popular first step towards an EU career, though it is limited to 5 months in duration and cannot be prolonged (at the European Commission), though for other institutions the system is less streamlined and this often results in more flexibility (e.g. at the European Parliament or the Court of Justice).

There are different traineeship schemes, the most well-known is the so-called "blue book" one which welcomes some 600 people twice a year at the European Commission and got its name from a blue book in which pre-selected candidates' names were listed in before an online system was put in place.

Trainees are, in most cases, paid approximately 1 250 euros a month if based in Brussels, whereas in other countries where EU institutions are based this sum may vary. For anyone seeking a career in European affairs a traineeship provides valuable experience and insight.