Looking for an international internship in Italy? The Nato Defence College offers paid internships in Rome for university students and recent graduates from Nato member countries. The five-month programme includes a monthly stipend and provides hands-on experience in an international environment focused on security, diplomacy and strategic studies.
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What is the Nato Defence College?
Based in Rome, the Nato Defence College is the Alliance’s leading institution for higher education and strategic thinking. It runs courses and research programmes for military officers, diplomats, civil servants and senior officials from Nato states and partner countries. It supports the development of future leaders in defence and international security.
Its internship programme gives young professionals direct exposure to the daily work of an international organisation while supporting departments such as Academic Operations, Public Affairs, Executive Coordination, Human Resources and Communications.
Rather than observing from the sidelines, interns join multicultural teams and actively contribute to projects, research activities, events and administrative tasks that support the College’s mission.
Who can apply?
The programme is open to current university students and recent graduates, but applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements.
Candidates must be between 21 and 30 years old at the time of the internship. They must also hold the nationality of a Nato member country. Applicants must be citizens of an Alliance member state, no matter where they live or study.
They must have completed at least two years of university studies or have obtained their highest degree within the past 12 months. Students and graduates in Political Science, International Relations, Security Studies, Journalism, Media Studies and related fields are strongly encouraged to apply. Other academic backgrounds may also be considered.
English proficiency is required. A working knowledge of French is an advantage. All selected candidates must obtain security clearance issued by their national authorities before starting the internship. This is required for access to Nato institutions.
An international student enrolled at an Italian university is eligible only if they are a citizen of a Nato member country. Studying or living in Italy alone is not enough.
Visa and residence permit requirements
Selected interns must follow Italian immigration rules before arriving in Rome.
Depending on nationality and country of residence, this may include an entry visa. After arrival in Italy, interns may need to apply for a residence permit. The Nato Defence College states that these steps remain the responsibility of the intern. Costs are estimated at around €200.
Applicants who already have the legal right to live and study in Italy must still ensure their status allows them to carry out an internship under Italian law.
Salary and internship benefits
Internships last around five months. They are full-time positions based at the Nato Defence College headquarters in Rome.
Participants receive a monthly stipend of €1,138.52. This payment may be subject to taxation in their country of origin, depending on national tax regulations. Interns must also arrange their own health insurance before the start of the programme.
After three months of service, interns accrue leave at a rate of 2.5 days per month worked. At the end of the programme, they receive an official certificate evaluating their performance and contribution.
Why this internship stands out
For students and graduates aiming for international careers, a placement at the Nato Defence College offers far more than a line on a CV. Interns work alongside academics, military officers, diplomats and policy experts. They gain direct insight into the internal functioning of one of the world’s most influential security organisations.
The programme also helps participants build international professional networks, strengthen intercultural communication skills and gain practical experience in policy, research and public affairs. It does not guarantee future employment. However, many former interns see it as a strong stepping stone towards careers in international organisations, think tanks, government institutions and the broader defence and security sector.
How to apply
They can submit applications through the Nato Defence College recruitment portal when internship calls are open. Candidates must create an online profile and upload the required documents, including proof of enrolment or degree completion and a CV in English. The deadline is on June, 22.
Given the competitive nature of the programme, applicants should tailor their application to the department they are targeting. They should clearly highlight their academic background, motivation and interest in international affairs.
