SHAPE Internship Programme 2026: Applications Now Open

The Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Internship Programme. This opportunity is available for highly motivated individuals from various academic disciplines. The application period is open until February 28, 2025. If applicants submit their applications after this date, SHAPE will not consider them.

Wide Range of Eligible Disciplines

SHAPE is looking for candidates from diverse backgrounds, including:

Political Science
International Relations
Security Studies
Law
Economics
Engineering
Logistics
Human Resources
Financial Administration
Accounting/Auditing
Information Technology
Languages
Journalism and Media Communications
Electronics
Library Science

This programme offers valuable professional experience in an international environment. Moreover, it helps interns develop skills relevant to their careers.

Internship Details

The SHAPE Internship Programme limits participation to 35 interns per year. Each internship lasts for six months. Applicants must specify their preferred start date, either January or September 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the SHAPE internship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

They must be citizens of a NATO member nation.
They need to be at least 21 years old.
Candidates must hold a first university degree.
They should be currently enrolled in an MA/MSc or PhD programme, or they must have graduated within the last 18 months.
They must be proficient in one NATO official language (English or French). Additionally, knowledge of the second language is desirable.
Applicants should not be over 35 years old unless they are engaged in a PhD programme that benefits SHAPE.

Only candidates who meet these criteria will be considered. SHAPE will reject other applications automatically.

Internship Benefits

Interns will receive several benefits, including financial support and travel reimbursement.

They will receive a monthly stipend of €1,216.74 (subject to tax deductions).
SHAPE will reimburse travel expenses at the start and end of the internship.
Interns must arrange their own accommodation.
They must also have health and accident insurance.

Application Procedure

To apply for the SHAPE Internship Programme, candidates must submit:

The official application form.
A detailed CV.
A one-page essay explaining their motivation and expectations.

All applications must be submitted through the National Military Representatives or directly to SHAPE. Candidates will receive an automatic email confirmation upon submission. If they do not receive confirmation, they should resubmit their application.

Selection Process

The SHAPE Civilian Human Resources Management Branch (CHRM) will conduct an initial screening. Then, they will send eligible applications to relevant divisions for further evaluation. Finally, the selection committee will make a decision in May or June 2025. SHAPE will notify selected candidates, while others will not receive a response.

Important Information for Interns

Interns must obtain the necessary visas and work permits. The competent Belgian authority for residence and foreigner matters is the Federal Public Service of the Interior in Brussels. Interns can also seek assistance from Belgian embassies or consulates.

Apply Now

This internship is a great opportunity to gain experience in an international organization. Therefore, interested candidates should prepare their applications carefully and submit them before the deadline. For more details, they can visit the official SHAPE website or contact the internship office.

Stay informed and apply early to secure a spot in the SHAPE Internship Programme 2026!