About the opportunity
The UNICEF Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates from diverse academic backgrounds the opportunity to gain direct practical work experience in the humanitarian sector. Interns take on meaningful assignments designed to support their academic, professional, and personal growth. Placements typically range from 6 to 26 weeks and can be undertaken on either a full-time or part-time schedule, supporting teams at headquarters, regional offices, or country offices worldwide.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly stipend provided by UNICEF for the duration of the internship
- One-time lump sum contribution toward travel and visa expenses, subject to funding availability
- Official supporting documentation provided by UNICEF for visa application processes when necessary
Who can apply?
- Must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or PhD degree program, or graduated within the past two years
- Proficiency in at least one of UNICEF's working languages (English, French, or Spanish)
- Fluency in the working language of the specific hiring office may also be required
- No immediate relatives (e.g., mother, father, sister, brother) working with UNICEF, and no relatives in the applicant's prospective reporting line of authority
- Strong academic performance and demonstrated motivation
- Relevant professional or practical experience related to the position is considered an advantage
Required documents
- Completed online candidate profile submitted through the UNICEF recruitment portal
- Tailored resume or CV reflecting relevant skills and academic background
- Any additional documentation or portfolio materials specified in the individual vacancy notice
When to apply
- Internship opportunities are published throughout the year on an ongoing basis
- Application deadlines vary by individual post and are specified on each vacancy announcement
How to apply
- Visit the UNICEF global vacancies portal and filter open positions by the internship work type
- Carefully review the specific role requirements and duties for your vacancy of interest
- Click 'Apply Now' and follow the instructions to set up or log into your candidate account
- Customize your profile and submit your application before the position's posted deadline
- Monitor your application status, noting that only shortlisted applicants will be contacted
Additional information
- Internships normally last between 6 and 26 weeks
- Arrangements can be structured on a full-time or part-time schedule depending on the office's operational needs and the candidate's availability
- Placement formats may be on-site, hybrid, or remote depending on the specific post
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Current university students or recent graduates within two years of graduation pursuing careers in international development, humanitarian affairs, or public administration
- Candidates who possess strong language skills in English, French, or Spanish and want direct experiential learning within the United Nations system
- Applicants with relevant coursework, volunteering, or prior work experience aligned with specific departmental functions
What should you think carefully about?
- Travel and visa lump-sum allowances depend on funding availability and may not be guaranteed for every role
- High application volumes mean only shortlisted applicants receive updates or interview invitations
- Tenure is temporary (between 6 and 26 weeks) and does not guarantee subsequent long-term UN employment
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This programme is an effective stepping stone for students and early-career professionals seeking practical exposure to multilateral humanitarian operations, skill building in international development, and valuable institutional networking within the United Nations.
Our take
Ideal for qualified students and recent graduates eager to contribute to child rights and humanitarian programs globally; less suitable for experienced professionals seeking long-term employment or guaranteed permanent relocation.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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