European Commission – Blue Book Traineeship Programme 2024

Embarking on a career in the heart of the European Union is an unparalleled opportunity for young professionals seeking a unique and enriching experience. The “Blue Book” traineeship programme, offered by the European Commission, opens the door to a world of possibilities, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in the dynamic realm of EU policy making. In this blog, we unravel the intricacies of the Blue Book traineeship, shedding light on how it serves as a launchpad for professional growth.

The Blue Book traineeship programme is a flagship initiative by the European Commission, offering young talents the chance to work within its various departments and services. 

The European Commission proposes 2 types of traineeship: an Administrative Traineeship or a Translation Traineeship with the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT). Trainees work all over the European Commission, its services and agencies, mostly in Brussels, but also in Luxembourg and elsewhere across the European Union.

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Key Information

• Country: Belgium, Luxembourg and other EU Countries
• Offered By: European Commission
• Duration: 5-Months
• Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
• Deadline: 15th March 2024

Who can apply?

The traineeship programme is open to all EU citizens, regardless of age, sex, race, colour, ethnic or social origin, religion or belief, membership of a national minority, disability, age or sexual orientation. A limited number of places are also allocated to non-EU nationals.

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Benefits

• Monthly allowance of EUR 1,376 or INR 1.2 Lakhs per month.
• Visa costs
• Medical Fees
• Travel expenditure (Airfare Tickets)
• Exposure to the inner workings of the European Union, its institutions, and its decision-making processes. 
• Networking opportunities with professionals and fellow trainees from diverse backgrounds.

Eligibility Criteria

The traineeship programme is open to university graduates who:

1. have completed a standard 3-year higher education degree (minimum EQF 6 level), corresponding to a complete Bachelor’s cycle, or equivalent. Only if you have a certificate or official confirmation from your university that you have such a degree will you be eligible to apply.
   You will have to provide the following documents:
   • diplomas or certificates with final grades clearly indicated
   • and proof of minimum EQF 6 level. Find out more about EQF levels
      
2. have no prior work experience of any kind, in excess of 6 weeks in any EU institution, body or agency, delegation, with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), or Advocates General at the Court of Justice of the European Union (EUCJ)
    
3. have a very good knowledge of languages:

• For the administrative traineeship – you must have a very good knowledge of two EU official languages, one of which must be a working language: English, French or German at C1 or C2 level as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages and a second one at B2 level at least as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
  For non-EU nationals, only one procedural language is required at C1 or C2 level.
• For the translation traineeship in the Directorate-General for Translation (DGT) – you must be able to translate into your main/target language (normally your mother tongue), from two other official EU languages (source languages).:
  • your main/target language must be one of the official EU languages
  • your first source language for translation must be a working language of the EU: English, French or German
  • your second source language can be any of the official EU languages with at least B2-level proficiency

What does a trainee’s daily work consist of?

• Attending and organising meetings, working groups, and public hearings
• Researching, drafting and editing documentation – including reports and consultations
• Answering citizens’ inquiries
• Supporting the management of projects
• Translating, revising translations or researching terminology

Documents required

• Copy of a valid passport or identity card proving the nationality indicated in the application form.
• Copies of all university degrees indicated in the application form and/or transcripts from the relevant university (i.e. list of subjects studied each year).
• Copies of certifications obtained, as indicated in the application form, if applicable.
• Copies of evidence of all declared work experience in the home country, as indicated in the application form, if applicable.
• Copies of evidence of all international experience indicated in the application form, if applicable.
• Copies of evidence of language skills declared in the application.

How to apply?

• Create an EU Login or connect with an existing account here.
• Complete and submit the application form.
•  Upload your supporting documents. 
•  Once your application is submitted, you will need to wait for the results of its evaluation. You will be informed about the results via e-mail. In case of acceptance, you will be invited to apply to available traineeship positions. 
• Official link – https://traineeships.ec.europa.eu/index_en 

Conclusion

The “Blue Book ” traineeship programme is not just a professional opportunity; it’s a transformative experience that propels young talents into the heart of European policy making. Aspiring professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding start to their careers should consider the Blue Book programme as a gateway to unparalleled growth and a deeper understanding of global affairs and policies.

Frequently Asked Questions