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UNESCO’s international internship pool connects students and recent graduates with practical assignments in its programme sectors and central services. Placements can be at headquarters, field offices or Category I institutes.
Organization: UNESCO
Location: Headquarters, field offices and institutes worldwide
Deadline: 31 December 2026, midnight
Duration: One to six months
Funding: Unpaid
Responsibilities and learning
Assignments depend on the host team’s needs. Supervisors define the terms of reference and learning objectives. Interns may research and summarize findings, draft substantive or communication materials, collect and present data, support events, attend stakeholder meetings, contribute to technical projects and coordinate with other UN entities.
The programme develops accountability, communication, teamwork, innovation, results delivery, planning and knowledge-sharing skills.
Who can apply?
- Applicants must be at least 20.
- Be in the third or final bachelor’s year; enrolled in a second university degree, master’s or PhD; or have completed a qualifying degree within 12 months before the internship agreement is issued.
- Technical/vocational applicants must be in their final year or have graduated within 12 months.
- Have excellent spoken and written English or French. Knowledge of the other language is beneficial and can be required for headquarters assistantship assignments.
- Have strong computer, office-software, communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work in an international team.
Funding and arrangements
UNESCO provides no salary or other financial compensation. Interns arrange and fund travel, obtain necessary visas and provide comprehensive medical insurance. UNESCO supplies limited insurance for incidents directly connected to internship duties.
Monthly leave consists of 2.5 days plus one additional working day for each complete internship month. UNESCO uses its own internship agreement rather than agreements supplied by universities.
Application documents and selection
Prepare a CV, motivation letter, identity document and enrolment certificate, transcript or diploma. Apply in English or French and provide translations where required. The online process allows one hour, so prepare responses beforehand and use contact details that remain valid for six months.
This application joins a candidate pool rather than filling one specified post. Managers assess candidates against available assignments. Applications remain in the pool for six months; selected applicants are contacted directly.
How to apply
Open the official vacancy and choose Apply now. Complete the profile and submit the required information before the closing date.
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