UNESCO Internship programme
The purpose of the UNESCO Internship programme is to offer selected graduate and postgraduate students in a field related to the work of UNESCO the opportunity to supplement their academic knowledge with practical work assignments and to enable them to gain a better understanding of UNESCO’s mandate and programmes. The duration of an internship generally ranges between 2 and 6 months.
The programme also allows students of bilingual secretarial schools/technical institutions to gain practical experience in an international Organization.
Who can apply for an internship at UNESCO?
Students enrolled in a graduate or post-graduate degree program in a university or equivalent institution at the time of application. Applicants pursuing their studies in a country where higher education is not divided into undergraduate and graduate stages must have completed at least 3 years of full-time studies in a university or equivalent institution towards the completion of a degree.
Applicants must be undertaking studies in areas related to UNESCO’s fields of competence (namely, education, culture, sciences, communication and social sciences) or in other areas which support UNESCO’s work (such as law, human resource management, management studies, international relations, etc.)
Additional Requirements:
- Languages: An excellent knowledge, both written and spoken, of at least one of UNESCO’s working languages (English or French). A working knowledge of the other language is an asset, and may be required of candidates for internships in secretarial/assistant assignments at Headquarters.
- Computer skills: Ability to use computer systems, email and office-related software (MS Office).
- Attitude: An awareness of the many facets of a multicultural world and a commitment to international public service are essential.
Please keep in mind:
- Costs/compensation: UNESCO interns are not paid. All costs related to travel, insurance, accommodation and living expenses must be borne either by the interns or their sponsoring institutions.
- Visa: Interns are responsible for obtaining and financing any necessary visas.
- Travel: Interns must arrange and finance their travel to the location where they will have the internship.
- Medical insurance: Interns are responsible for all costs arising from accidents/illness incurred during an internship. Interns must show proof of a valid major global medical insurance coverage.
- Confidentiality: Any and all unpublished information obtained during the course of the internship must be kept confidential, and interns may not publish any reports or papers based on this information.
- Academic credit: Some institutions of higher education award academic credit for internship programs. Interns should check with their university to confirm its credit policy.
