The United Nations Internship Programme 2026 is now open to Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students. Learn who can apply, internship duration, requirements, costs, and how to apply for a UN internship at Headquarters or field offices.
Overview: United Nations Internship Programme 2026
The United Nations Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain first-hand experience inside one of the world’s most influential international organizations. Designed for individuals pursuing careers in diplomacy, international relations, public policy, human rights, development, climate action, and global governance, the internship provides direct exposure to UN operations and high-level decision-making.
Interns work closely with UN staff, attend conferences and meetings, contribute to analytical work and policy discussions, and engage with various UN departments at Headquarters in New York or offices worldwide. The programme is intended to help participants build foundational experience in multilateral environments.
Why Be a UN Intern?
An internship at the United Nations provides:
- A first-hand view of the daily work of the UN
- Opportunities to work with experienced professionals and senior leadership
- Exposure to global conferences, missions, and policy analysis
- A chance to contribute to reports, research, and organizational priorities
- Practical experience in diplomacy, development, and international cooperation
- Professional growth aligned with global issues and public service
Intern responsibilities grow as capacity and performance allow, enabling significant professional development.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the United Nations Internship Programme, applicants must meet all eligibility criteria at the time of application.
Academic Requirements
You must be one of the following:
- Enrolled in a Master’s programme
- Enrolled in a PhD programme
- In the final year of a Bachelor’s degree
- OR within one year after completing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programme
Language Requirements
- Excellent command of English or French
- Knowledge of an additional UN language is an asset
Family Restrictions
- You must not be a child or sibling of a United Nations Secretariat staff member
Key Conditions You Should Know
Duration
- Minimum: 2 months
- Maximum: 6 months
- Must begin during studies or within one year after graduation
Financial Considerations
- UN internships are unpaid
- All costs must be covered by the intern or a sponsoring institution, including:
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Visas
- Health insurance
Insurance Requirement
- Interns must have major global medical insurance coverage for the entire duration
Visa Responsibility
- Interns must obtain and finance any required visas
Confidentiality
- Interns must keep all unpublished information confidential
- No publication of materials based on UN work is allowed without authorization
Academic Credit
- Some universities offer credit for UN internships
- Applicants must confirm policies with their institution
Benefits of Being a UN Intern
While the internship is unpaid, the benefits include:
- Direct experience in the world’s leading diplomatic institution
- Multicultural working environment
- Leadership and policy exposure
- Opportunities to build a global network
- Skills in research, analysis, communication, and international teamwork
- A strong foundation for future UN or global governance careers
How to Apply
Applications for the UN Internship Programme are submitted through the United Nations Careers Portal.
Application Steps
- Visit the United Nations Careers site
- Search for “Internship” positions within the Secretariat
- Select opportunities based on department, duty station, and interest
- Prepare required documents, including:
- Personal history/profile
- Motivation statement
- Educational certificates
- Submit an online application through the job posting
Each UN department posts internships separately, and deadlines vary throughout the year.
Applying to Other UN Agencies
For internships with other UN entities, candidates must apply directly through agency-specific portals:
- UNDP
- UNICEF
- UNFPA
- UNOPS
- UNHCR
- UNEP
- Other specialized agencies
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | United Nations Internship Programme 2026 |
| Eligibility | Bachelor’s final year, Master’s, or PhD students; or graduates within 1 year |
| Languages | English or French required |
| Paid | No |
| Duration | 2 to 6 months |
| Location | UN Headquarters or global field offices |
| Costs Covered By | Intern or sponsoring institution |
| Restrictions | No children/siblings of UN Secretariat staff |
| Application Method | Apply individually through the UN Careers Portal |
Conclusion
The United Nations Internship Programme 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for emerging professionals seeking to build careers in diplomacy, development, and global governance. With exposure to international operations, high-level meetings, and policy processes, the programme provides one of the most valuable pathways into the UN system. Although unpaid, the experience, networks, and training make it a competitive stepping stone toward future international roles.
APPLY NOW
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn, and Follow our Twitter Page.
Related Opportunities on Reign Gigs
- UNDP 100% Remote Volunteer Assignments 2026 – Paid & Fully Funded
- Mercy Corps Global Fellowship 2026 – Fully Funded Training + Monthly Stipend
- UNICEF Remote Internship 2026 – Paid International Opportunities
- Global Fellowships & Skills Training Programs 2025