May 15 2026

NATO opens applications for its Young Professional Programme

NATO has opened applications for its Young Professionals Programme (YPP), an initiative designed to attract and develop highly talented early-career professionals interested in building a career within the Alliance.

The programme offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience across multiple successful candidates will have the opportunity to work in various areas in different NATO bodies, including the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA).

NATO opens applications for its Young Professional Programme

Selected candidates will undertake a three-year rotational journey, spending one year in each of three different NATO bodies. This structure enables participants to develop a broad understanding of NATO’s work while building a diverse range of professional skills and experience.

The programme provides a dynamic international environment where Young Professionals contribute to NATO’s objectives while expanding their expertise and professional networks across the Alliance, including in areas such as communications, information technology and cybersecurity at NCIA.

After completion of the three-year programme, participants may be appointed to a position in one of the NATO bodies where they worked for an additional period of three years based on business needs and individual performance.

Applications are open to candidates aged 21 to 32 (included) who are nationals of a NATO member country, hold a degree from a recognized institution, have at least one year of professional experience, and are proficient in English or French. Applicants must fulfil this eligibility criteria on the closing date for applications.

The deadline to apply is 31 May 2026. Apply here and take advantage of this opportunity to gain experience across NATO, including with NCIA.