European Union Competitions

The Blue Book Traineeship is one of the best ways into the European Union: five months of paid traineeship at the European Commission, with a monthly grant, working side by side with the professionals who shape the policies that steer the continent. It is real experience, a first-class network and a line on your CV that keeps opening doors at institutions, consultancies and international organisations throughout your career.

But you have to take it seriously. There are only two intakes per year —one in March and one in October— and thousands of candidates from across Europe compete for a limited number of places. An improvised application gets filtered out. Getting in usually comes down to the details: a well-built European CV, a motivation letter that connects and knowing how to navigate the process.

That is where EU Campus comes in. With this service you don’t face the call on your own: we guide you step by step until you submit a strong, competitive application.

What’s included

• A complete, step-by-step guide to the process: requirements, deadlines for the March and October calls, how selection works and how to stand out at every stage.
• A personalised review of your European CV and motivation letter: we adapt them to the format and language the Commission’s services value, so your profile arrives in the best possible shape.
• Ongoing follow-up and support to access the institutions: vacancy alerts, analysis of your profile against open calls and discounts on EPSO competition preparation to take the next step in your European career.

Preparing properly isn’t an expense: it’s what separates those who try from those who land the place. The next call will be here sooner than you think.

Book your place now and start preparing your Blue Book Traineeship application with EU Campus.

Frequently asked questions about the Blue Book Traineeship

What is the European Commission Blue Book Traineeship?

It is a five-month paid traineeship that the European Commission runs twice a year (March and October sessions). Trainees work on EU policymaking and administration within the Commission, its agencies or the Commissioners’ cabinets, in a multicultural environment.

How much do Blue Book trainees get paid?

Trainees receive a monthly grant that is adjusted according to the place of assignment: roughly €1,400–1,500 (around €1,493 in Brussels for the March 2026 session). There is also a travel allowance (around €275) and, depending on the location, a meal and transport allowance (5% of the grant) or an accommodation allowance (20%, Luxembourg only).

What are the eligibility requirements for the Blue Book?

You must be a national of an EU country (a limited quota is available for non-EU nationals), hold a university degree of at least three years and know two official EU languages (one at C1 and a second at B2; for Brussels or Luxembourg, one must be English, French or German). Applicants who have already completed more than six weeks of paid traineeship in another EU institution are not eligible.

When are the Blue Book application rounds?

There are two sessions per year: one starting in March and another in October. The application period opens several months before each session begins.

Is it hard to get into the Blue Book Traineeship?

Yes, it is highly competitive: each session receives thousands of applications for a limited number of places. Pre-selection is carried out by the Directorates-General themselves and depends heavily on the quality of your European CV, your motivation letter and your choice of assignments.

How can I improve my chances of being selected?

By preparing a well-structured European CV, a motivation letter that connects with your chosen Directorate-General, a strong language profile and a coherent, error-free application. At EU Campus we guide you step by step, review your CV and motivation letter and support you until you submit your application.

Can I apply again if I am not selected?

Yes. You can apply for as many sessions as you like; each round requires a new application.