Applications are currently being accepted for UNESCO Internships Opportunities 2026. The UNESCO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience within the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It provides exposure to UNESCO’s work across areas including education, sciences, culture, communication and information, social and human sciences, administration and other fields.
UNESCO currently lists internship opportunities across several sectors and offices, giving eligible candidates the chance to work in an international environment while developing professional skills and gaining first-hand experience of how an international organization operates.
SUMMARY:
- Organisation(s): UNESCO
- Program Type: Student/Graduate Internship
- Program Location: Not specified
- Program Duration: 1-6 months
- Available Slot: Several
- Basic Qualifications: Enrolled in undergrad or grad program
- Nationality: All Nationalities
See Also: Microsoft Global University Internships 2026 | APPLY
Program Overview
The UNESCO Internship Programme is designed as a learning and professional development opportunity for students and recent graduates.
Internships may be available at UNESCO Headquarters and field offices, depending on the specific assignment. Current opportunities include positions in areas such as:
- Education
- Sciences
- Culture
- Communication and Information
- Social and Human Sciences
- Digital Business Solutions
- Communications and Public Engagement
- Priority Africa and External Relations
- Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission
- Governing Bodies Secretariat
- Human Resources Management
- Office of the Director-General
The duration of a UNESCO internship is generally between one and six months, depending on the assignment.
See More Internships:
- British Embassy Paid Internships 2026-2027 [New Openings]
- WHO Internships 2026-2027 Now Open | Paid Opportunities
Eligibility Criteria | UNESCO Internships Opportunities 2026
To be considered for the UNESCO Internship Programmme for this application phase, applicants generally must:
- Be at least 20 years old.
- Be currently enrolled in the third or final year of a Bachelor’s degree, or be enrolled in a Master’s, PhD or equivalent programme.
- Alternatively, have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s or PhD degree no more than 12 months before the issuance of the Internship Agreement.
- For technical or vocational assignments, be in the final year of a relevant technical/vocational programme or have graduated within the previous 12 months.
- Have excellent written and spoken English or French.
- Have good computer skills and knowledge of office-related software.
- Be able to work effectively in a team and adapt to an international working environment.
Internship Benefits
The UNESCO Internship Programme provides participants with an opportunity to:
- Gain practical work experience within UNESCO.
- Work alongside professionals in an international organization.
- Develop technical, research, communication and professional skills.
- Gain a better understanding of UNESCO’s mandate, programmes and operations.
- Develop experience working in a multicultural and international environment.
- Build professional knowledge that can support future careers in international work environments
Important Note: It is expected that interns might be given stipends while on the programme. However, UNESCO does not generally fund interns’ travel, accommodation or visa expenses. Interns are responsible for arranging and financing their travel to the internship location and obtaining any required visa. They must also provide proof of comprehensive medical insurance covering the entire internship period.
Application Procedures
How to Apply: Interested applicants can apply through the official UNESCO Careers portal.
- Visit the UNESCO Careers website.
- Go to the Internships section.
- Review the available internship opportunities and identify a position that matches your academic background and interests.
- Carefully read the requirements for your preferred internship.
- Prepare your CV/resume and motivation letter.
- Complete the online application in English or French.
- Provide information about your skills, competencies, experience and interests when requested.
- Submit the application before the deadline stated for the internship.
Applicants should note that the online application process may have a one-hour completion limit, so it is advisable to prepare the necessary information before starting the application.
Application Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Motivation letter
- Academic information
- Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation
- Academic transcript or diploma, where applicable
- Valid identification document or passport
- Any additional documents requested for the specific internship
Before beginning the internship, selected candidates must provide proof of identity, certificate of enrolment, transcript of records or diploma where applicable.
Application Deadline: Varies per Position (December 31, 2026 for some positions)
