United Nations Internships: A Comprehensive Guide to Undergraduate Requirements

The United Nations (UN) offers a variety of internship programs for undergraduate and graduate students seeking to gain practical experience in international affairs, diplomacy, and various development-related fields. These internships provide a valuable opportunity to work within a global organization, contribute to its mission, and enhance one's understanding of international issues. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of UN internships, focusing on eligibility requirements, application processes, financial aspects, and the overall experience.

Overview of UN Internship Programs

UN internships are designed to provide students and recent graduates with direct exposure to the UN's work. Assignments vary greatly in content and may focus on country-specific, regional, sectoral, or thematic areas. Most interns support the design, implementation, and evaluation of UN projects, gaining insights into gender and humanitarian action in an international environment.

Several UN agencies and offices offer internship programs, including:

UN Women
UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)
UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)
UNU-INWEH (United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health)
UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund)
UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research)
OHCHR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights)
UN Global Compact
UN Secretariat

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for a UN internship, applicants must generally meet the following criteria:

Enrollment or Recent Graduation: Be enrolled in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. program, or have recently graduated (within one year) from such a program. Some programs may require current enrollment, ensuring that students return to their studies upon completion of the internship.
Academic Performance: Demonstrate excellent academic performance through recent university or institution records.
Language Proficiency: Be proficient in at least one of the UN's working languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian). Some positions may require proficiency in specific languages.
Visa and Travel: Be able to obtain the necessary visa and arrange travel to the duty station.
Financial Responsibility: Be able to cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and living expenses during the internship.
Health Insurance: Provide proof of valid medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship.
No Immediate Relatives: Have no immediate relatives (e.g. child, sibling, spouse, or recognized partner) employed by the UN.
Other Requirements: Awareness and ability to adapt to a multicultural environment and a commitment to international public service are essential.

Application Process

The application process for UN internships typically involves the following steps:

Review Available Opportunities: Check the websites of various UN agencies and offices for internship vacancies.
Read Job Descriptions: Carefully review the full job description for each posting to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities.
Create or Update Profile: Create or log in to the online e-recruitment system (e.g., "Inspira" for the UN Secretariat) or the specific portal indicated by the agency.
Prepare Application Materials: Draft a cover letter and curriculum vitae (CV), tailoring skills and motivations to the specific internship posting.
Submit Application: Submit the completed application and any required documents through the online system.
Selection Process: Applications undergo pre-screening and selection. Only short-listed applicants may be contacted for an interview.

Required Application Materials

Commonly required application materials include:

Cover Letter: A well-written cover letter highlighting interest in the specific internship and relevant skills and experiences.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV outlining education, work experience, skills, and other relevant qualifications.
UNDP Application Form: Some agencies, like UNDP, require a completed and signed application form.
Reference Letter(s): A letter of recommendation from a professor or previous employer.

Duration and Timing

UN internships typically last for a minimum of two months and a maximum of six months. The timing of internships can be flexible, with opportunities available throughout the year. However, some offices may have specific sessions, such as:

Fall Internships: Commencing in September.
Winter Internships: Commencing in December.
Spring Opportunities: Starting in the spring.
Summer Internship Program: Some offices do not offer summer internships

Financial Aspects

Internships at the United Nations Secretariat are unpaid. Interns or their sponsoring institutions are responsible for all costs, including travel, accommodation, medical insurance, and living expenses. However, some UN agencies, such as UNDP, offer a monthly stipend to interns, with the rate varying depending on the location. The stipend is typically pro-rated for part-time internships.

UNHCR may reimburse interns engaged from a location outside the country of the duty station for return travel costs to/from the duty station by the most economical route available, irrespective of the duration of the journey, unless these costs are provided or paid by their sponsoring entities. The allowance for part-time internships is calculated at 50% of the applicable rate of the full-time allowance at the respective duty station.

Costs to Consider

Travel: Costs associated with traveling to and from the duty station.
Accommodation: Expenses for housing during the internship period.
Living Expenses: Costs for food, transportation, and other daily necessities.
Medical Insurance: Premiums for health insurance coverage.
Visa: Fees for obtaining the necessary visa.

Internship Experience

Interning at the UN provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a global organization. Intern duties vary by office but commonly include:

Read also: Unlock summer legal internships

Researching human rights issues
Drafting documents and reports
Supporting conferences and meetings
Data analysis
Policy assistance
Monitoring media and social media
Compiling budget information
Assisting with day-to-day operations

Interns may also have the opportunity to attend high-profile conferences, participate in meetings, and contribute to analytical work and organizational policy.

Testimonials

Daniele Elizaire, Evaluation Intern: "Volunteering at International Women's Day and throughout the Commission on the Status of Women was both insightful and energizing. I've only been here for two months and am thrilled to continue engaging and learning.”
UNHCR Intern: "The best part about interning at UNHCR has been working as a part of the Community-Based Protection team. They are all such incredibly kind, driven, and intelligent people. Being able to contribute to ensuring that the voices and capacities of refugees, IDPS, and stateless people are incorporated into all facets of protection work has been exceptionally rewarding."
UNHCR Intern: "My time interning with UNHCR was unforgettable. I was involved in procurement processes for core relief items including fuel efficient cookstoves and portable solar lamps with mobile charging. It was incredibly rewarding knowing that at the end of the process, refugees would have access to these items, making their day to day lives a little easier, whilst reducing environmental impact."
UNHCR Intern: "Working with the Regional Africa Bureau has been a tremendously rich and exciting experience. It was a unique opportunity for me to work with senior skilled professionals specialized in the humanitarian sector. I contributed in drafting SMC (Senior Management Committee) notes and compiled budget information on Excel files for the East and Horn pillar. Moreover I had the pleasure of meeting refugees from all around the world and listening to their daily struggles, in order to best respond to their needs."

Tips for a Successful Application

Tailor Application Materials: Customize the cover letter and CV to match the specific requirements and responsibilities of the internship posting.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasize skills and experiences that align with the needs of the organization, such as research, writing, data analysis, and communication skills.
Demonstrate Passion for Development: Convey a genuine interest in international development and the UN's mission.
Gain Relevant Experience: If your background does not fit the ideal description, consider gaining field experience by working for a relevant non-governmental organization, non-profit, or volunteering with the Peace Corps.
Be Vigilant: Pay close attention to application procedures and deadlines, as they vary depending on the vacant position.
Apply Early: Submit applications well in advance of the deadline to ensure they are considered.

Other Opportunities

In addition to internships, the UN offers other opportunities for individuals interested in international service, such as the UN Volunteers (UNV) program. The UNV program mobilizes volunteers for peace, development, and humanitarian efforts worldwide, typically for a minimum of one year. UNVs receive benefits, including travel, a monthly living allowance, health coverage, and annual leave.

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