The UNESCO Internship Programme 2026 is a valuable learning opportunity designed for students and recent graduates who wish to gain hands-on experience within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This internship programme allows participants to better understand UNESCO’s mandate, programmes, and processes while strengthening their academic, technical, and professional skills through real-world assignments in an international environment.
Open to eligible candidates from around the world, the UNESCO Internship Programme provides exposure to global development initiatives across education, science, culture, and communication. Although the internship is non-remunerated, it offers unmatched professional experience and international networking opportunities that can significantly enhance future career prospects.
What Is the UNESCO Internship Programme?
The UNESCO Internship Programme is structured to support learning and professional development. Interns are assigned practical tasks that align with their academic background and professional interests, enabling them to apply theoretical knowledge to real institutional challenges.
Internships may take place at UNESCO Headquarters, Field Offices, or Institutes, depending on organizational needs. Interns work under the supervision of UNESCO professionals and contribute to ongoing projects while developing essential workplace skills.
Who Can Apply for the UNESCO Internship Programme 2026?
- Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Be currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent, second university degree or higher)
- Have recently graduated with a Master’s degree or PhD (or second degree as defined above) within 12 months prior to the start of the internship
Important Note:
Candidates who have completed a full-time bachelor’s degree but are not enrolled in a graduate programme are not eligible to apply.
Special Academic Conditions
Applicants for secretarial/assistant or technical/professional assignments must:
- Be enrolled in a secretarial school or specialized technical/professional institution
- Be in the last year of their studies, or
- Have recently graduated within the last 12 months
Language Requirements
- Applicants must have excellent written and spoken command of English or French
- A working knowledge of the other language (English or French) is considered an asset
- For secretarial and assistantship assignments at the Headquarters, bilingual ability may be required
Required Skills and Competencies
To succeed in the UNESCO Internship Programme, applicants should demonstrate:
- Excellent computer skills, including office-related software
- Ability to work effectively as a team player
- Adaptability to a multicultural and international working environment
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
These competencies are essential for contributing meaningfully to UNESCO’s mission-driven work culture.
Key Conditions to Keep in Mind
Before applying, candidates should carefully consider the following internship conditions:
- Duration: Minimum duration: 1 month, Maximum duration: 6 months
- Interns are fully responsible for obtaining any required visas
- Interns must arrange and finance their own travel to the internship duty station
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance valid for the entire internship period and country of assignment is mandatory
- UNESCO provides limited workplace accident insurance only
- A medical certificate confirming fitness to work must be submitted before the internship begins
- The certificate must be issued by a qualified medical practitioner
- Applicants must NOT submit detailed medical records such as blood test results, X-rays, CT scans, or similar documents
Supporting Documents
Before the internship starts, interns must provide:
- ID
- Certificate of Enrollment
- Diploma (if recently graduated)
Leave Entitlement
- Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month
Important Guidelines Before Applying
To avoid disqualification, applicants should carefully follow these instructions:
- Prepare your motivation letter and résumé in advance
- You have only one hour to complete the online application
- Ensure your contact details remain valid for the next 6 months
- Applications must be submitted in either English or French
- Provide unofficial French or English translations if documents are in another language
- UNESCO does not remunerate interns; there is no financial compensation
- Meeting eligibility requirements does not guarantee placement
- Applications are stored in the internship portal for six months
- UNESCO does not contact unsuccessful candidates
- If you do not receive any update within six months, your application has not been successful
UNESCO Volunteer Programme
In addition to internships, UNESCO is also offering opportunities through the UNESCO Volunteer Programme, allowing individuals to contribute their skills to UNESCO initiatives worldwide.
Who Can Apply for the UNESCO Volunteer Programme?
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Possess relevant expertise, knowledge, competencies, and skills
- Be at least 20 years old, and normally not older than 65 years
- There is no maximum age limit for online volunteer assignments
- Have working knowledge of English or French
- Be legally entitled to reside in the country of assignment
Duration and Conditions of Volunteer Assignments
- Assignment duration ranges from a minimum of two weeks up to 6 months
- Assignments may be full-time or part-time
- Volunteers are not considered UNESCO staff members
- There is no compensation, financial or otherwise
- Volunteers are responsible for:
- Travel arrangements
- Visas
- Health insurance
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
How to Apply for UNESCO Volunteer Opportunities
The application process includes several stages:
1. Complete the application form, including:
- Proposal for contribution
- Objectives
- Expected results
2. Supervisors of Sector/Bureau review applications and assess suitability
3. References are verified to confirm credentials
4. Interviews and evaluations are conducted
5. A Description for Volunteer Assignment is prepared outlining duties and responsibilities
The UNESCO Internship Programme 2026 and UNESCO Volunteer Programme offer meaningful opportunities for students, graduates, and professionals to engage with a globally respected UN organization. While these roles are unpaid, they provide invaluable international exposure, professional development, and a deeper understanding of UNESCO’s mission.
For individuals seeking experience in global education, culture, science, and policy environments, these programmes represent a strong foundation for future careers in international organizations