The UNESCO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an international organization. It is designed to help young professionals understand UNESCO’s mandate, programmes, and processes while enhancing their academic and technical knowledge through practical assignments.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the UNESCO Internship Programme, candidates must meet specific requirements:
- Age Requirement
- Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent, second university degree or higher).
- Recently graduated with a Master’s degree or PhD (or equivalent) within 12 months prior to the start of the internship.
- Note: Candidates who have completed a full-time bachelor’s degree but are not enrolled in a graduate programme are not eligible.
- For secretarial/assistant or technical/professional assignments:
- Must be enrolled in a secretarial school or specialized technical/professional institution.
- Must have reached the last year of studies or graduated within the past 12 months.
- Language Proficiency
- Excellent command of English or French (written and spoken).
- Working knowledge of the other language is considered an asset, especially for internships at UNESCO Headquarters.
- Computer Skills
- Strong knowledge of computer systems and office-related software is required.
- Teamwork and Communication
- Ability to work effectively in a team and adapt to an international environment.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential.
Key Conditions of the Internship
Applicants should carefully consider the following conditions before applying:
- Duration
- Minimum: 1 month
- Maximum: 6 months
- Visa
- Interns are responsible for obtaining any necessary visas.
- Travel
- Interns must arrange and finance their own travel to the internship location.
- Medical Insurance
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance valid in the host country for the entire internship period is required.
- UNESCO provides only limited workplace accident insurance.
- Medical Certificate
- A certificate issued by a qualified medical practitioner confirming fitness to work must be submitted.
- Detailed medical records (blood tests, X-rays, etc.) should not be submitted.
- Supporting Documents
- ID, Certificate of Enrollment, or Diploma (if recently graduated) must be provided before the internship begins.
- Leave Entitlement
- Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during the internship.
Application Process
Before applying, candidates should prepare the following:
- Motivation Letter
- Clearly explain your interest in the programme and how it aligns with your academic and professional goals.
- Résumé (CV)
- Highlight relevant academic achievements, skills, and experiences.
- Application Form
- Must be completed within one hour.
- Applications can only be submitted in English or French.
- If documents are in another language, provide an unofficial translation in English or French.
Important Notes for Applicants
- No Remuneration
- UNESCO internships are unpaid. There is no financial compensation or allowance.
- Placement Not Guaranteed
- Even if you meet all eligibility criteria, placement is not guaranteed.
- UNESCO receives more applications than available positions.
- Application Validity
- Applications remain in the internship portal for six months.
- If selected, you will be contacted directly by a manager.
- If no update is received within six months, the application is considered unsuccessful.
Why Consider the UNESCO Internship?
Despite the lack of financial compensation, the programme offers invaluable benefits:
- Professional Growth
- Gain practical experience in a leading international organization.
- Enhance academic knowledge with real-world application.
- Networking Opportunities
- Work alongside professionals from diverse backgrounds.
- Build connections that may support future career opportunities.
- Global Perspective
- Exposure to UNESCO’s work in education, science, culture, and communication.
- Develop skills to contribute to international cooperation and sustainable development.
The UNESCO Internship Programme is a competitive but rewarding opportunity for motivated students and recent graduates. While applicants must be prepared to cover their own expenses, the experience offers unmatched exposure to international work, professional development, and the chance to contribute to UNESCO’s mission of building peace through education, science, and culture.
For those passionate about global change and eager to gain practical experience, this internship can serve as a stepping stone toward a meaningful career in international development. Apply here.
