Good news for aspiring global professionals! Applications are now open for the prestigious United Nations Internships 2025–2026. This guide provides all the essential details, including the benefits of the internship, eligibility requirements, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply successfully.
About the United Nations Internship Program
The United Nations (UN) is one of the world’s most respected international organizations, working tirelessly to maintain global peace and security, uphold human rights, promote sustainable development, and foster international cooperation. The UN offers unique internship opportunities for students and recent graduates from around the world, providing firsthand exposure to the UN’s work and contributing to real-world impact.
The United Nations Internship Programme is open to international applicants and typically lasts between two to six months. These internships are unpaid, but they offer an unparalleled learning experience, a certificate of participation, and a chance to contribute meaningfully to global initiatives.
Why Intern with the United Nations?
Interning at the United Nations is more than just a line on your resume—it’s a career-shaping experience. Interns work alongside international experts, contribute to global projects, and develop valuable professional skills in a multicultural environment. If you are passionate about international relations, sustainable development, peace, human rights, or humanitarian issues, this internship is for you.
Key Highlights
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Internship Host: United Nations
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Internship Location: Multiple UN offices worldwide
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Duration: 2 to 6 months
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Application Deadline: Varies by position
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Eligible Countries: All nationalities
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Languages Required: English (fluency required); knowledge of additional UN languages is a plus
Benefits of the UN Internship Programme
Although the UN internships are unpaid, selected candidates will receive:
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A certificate of completion from the United Nations
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Exposure to the workings of one of the world’s largest international organizations
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Opportunities to build a global network of professionals
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Valuable training and mentorship
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Experience contributing to meaningful projects with real-world impact
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the United Nations Internship Programme 2025–2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Requirements:
At the time of application, applicants must meet one of the following:
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Be enrolled in a graduate program (master’s degree or equivalent)
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Be in the final year of an undergraduate degree program (minimum bachelor’s level)
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Have recently graduated with a university degree (within the last year)
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In countries where education is not divided into undergraduate and graduate stages, applicants must have completed at least four years of full-time studies at a university or equivalent institution
Language Proficiency:
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Fluency in English is required
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Knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is considered an advantage
Additional Competencies:
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Strong interest in the mission and values of the United Nations
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Ability to work collaboratively in an international, multicultural environment
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Technological awareness and proficiency with common software (e.g., MS Word, Excel)
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Professionalism, organizational skills, and ability to meet deadlines
How to Apply for United Nations Internships 2025–2026
Follow these steps to successfully apply for a United Nations Internship:
Step 1: Create an Account
Visit the United Nations Careers Portal and create your personal account.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Fill in your Personal History Profile (PHP), including your education, work experience, language proficiency, and other relevant skills.
Step 3: Search for Internships
Use the search function on the UN portal to find internship opportunities that match your interests and qualifications. Internships are available in various fields such as:
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International Relations
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Human Rights
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Environmental Policy
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Communications and Media
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Human Resources
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Political Affairs
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Public Information
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Economic and Social Development
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Ensure that your application includes:
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A Cover Letter outlining:
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Your current degree program and expected graduation date
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Your motivation for applying to the internship
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Relevant experience (e.g., data analysis, communications, social media, research)
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Why you are a strong candidate for the internship
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A complete Personal History Profile (PHP) detailing:
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Educational background
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Work and volunteer experience
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Skills and competencies
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Three references
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Note: Only completed applications will be considered. Due to the high volume of applicants, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Click here for more information on the application process.
Tips for a Strong Application
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Tailor your cover letter to each internship posting
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Highlight specific skills aligned with the internship role
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Demonstrate a clear understanding of UN values and goals
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Showcase any international experience or cross-cultural communication skills
Official Website
For more details and to explore available internship openings, visit the official United Nations Internship Portal.
Final Thoughts
The United Nations Internship Programme 2025–2026 offers a rare opportunity to contribute to global causes while gaining valuable experience in international governance and development. If you are passionate about making a difference on a global scale, this internship could be the launchpad for your career in international affairs.
Apply now to be part of a dynamic team working to shape a better world.
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