The UNESCO Internship Programme 2026 offers international students a unique opportunity to gain practical work experience in one of UNESCO’s priority areas. This internship helps you understand the Organization’s mandate, programmes, and main thrusts while enhancing your academic knowledge with relevant work assignments that prepare you for your future career.
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, is a specialized agency of the United Nations based in Paris, France. With a mission to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture, UNESCO offers internships at its Headquarters, Field Offices, and Category I Institutes worldwide.
UNESCO Internship Programme Benefits
- Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship and an additional leave of 1 working day per complete month of internship.
- Interns are provided with a limited workplace insurance coverage against risk of injury, illness, disability, or death incurred during the period of the internship and directly attributable to the execution of the internship.
UNESCO Internship Programme Eligibility Criteria
- You must be at least 20 years old to apply.
- At the time of your application, you should be currently enrolled AND on the 3rd year or last year of your Bachelor’s degree; OR currently enrolled in your second university degree, Master’s or PhD degree or equivalent; OR have finished your Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree within the last 12 months.
- Applicants in technical/vocational assignments must be enrolled in a specialized technical/vocational institution and must have reached the last year of their studies, or have recently graduated (within the last 12 months).
- You should have an excellent command, both written and spoken, of English or French. A working knowledge of the other language is an asset.
- You must have an excellent knowledge of computer systems and office-related software.
- You should be able to work well in a team and adapt to an international working environment.
- You should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills.
How to Apply for UNESCO Internship Programme?
- Have your motivation statement and résumé (CV) ready before filling out the application form. You only have one hour to finish the process.
- Make sure your contact details will be valid for the next 6 months.
- You can only use either English or French in applying.
- Please provide an unofficial French or English translation of your documents if they are not in these languages.
- Submit your application to become part of the pool of internship candidates. Your application will be further assessed by UNESCO managers and will stay in the portal for six months.
- If selected, you will be directly contacted by the manager. If you do not receive any update within six months, your application has not been successful.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the UNESCO Internship Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the UNESCO Internship Programme?
The UNESCO Internship Programme offers practical work experience in one of UNESCO’s priority areas. It helps you understand the Organization’s mandate, programmes, and main thrusts while enhancing your academic knowledge with relevant work assignments that prepare you for your future career.
Who can apply for the UNESCO Internship Programme?
You can apply if you are at least 20 years old and are currently enrolled in the third or last year of a Bachelor’s degree, or enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program, or have graduated within the last 12 months. You must have excellent command of English or French and strong computer skills.
What is the deadline for the UNESCO Internship Programme 2026?
The application deadline is 30 June 2026 (Midnight Paris Time). Applications must be submitted through the UNESCO careers portal before this date.
Is the UNESCO Internship Programme fully funded?
No, UNESCO does not remunerate interns. There is no compensation, financial or otherwise, for internship assignments. However, interns receive limited workplace insurance coverage and are entitled to leave days.
How long does the UNESCO Internship last?
The duration of an internship generally ranges between 1 and 6 months. The specific duration will be determined by the hiring manager based on the needs of the assignment.
Where can I do a UNESCO internship?
Internships are available at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris, France, as well as at Field Offices and Category I Institutes around the world. The duty station is specified in the vacancy notice.
What tasks will I perform as a UNESCO intern?
Interns may carry out research, prepare documents and communication materials, collect and analyze data, assist in organizing events, participate in meetings, contribute to technical work, and liaise with colleagues in other UN entities.
How do I apply for the UNESCO Internship Programme?
Prepare your motivation statement and CV before starting the application. You have one hour to complete the form. Submit your application through the UNESCO careers portal. Your application will stay in the talent pool for six months.
Will I be contacted after applying?
UNESCO does not respond to every candidate. If you are selected, you will be directly contacted by the hiring manager. If you do not receive any update within six months, your application has not been successful.
What language skills are required for the UNESCO Internship?
You must have an excellent command, both written and spoken, of English or French. A working knowledge of the other language is an asset and may be required for certain assignments at Headquarters.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
