The UNOPS Internship Programme provides exceptional, penultimate- and final-year students enrolled in an advanced university degree programme the opportunity to gain practical experience working in a United Nations organization.

Interns perform practical work assignments, applying and developing their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. All units and offices at UNOPS have hosted interns specializing in a variety of professional fields.

 Eligibility criteria

• Students must be studying towards an advanced university degree, such as a Masters or PhD. Undergraduate students are not eligible
• Candidates must specialize in a field relevant to the mission and work of UNOPS
• Fluency in English is normally essential but in some regions French or Spanish may be required. Knowledge of other United Nations working languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish or Russian) is an asset
• Candidates must be able to adapt to new environments and to establish and maintain good working relations with individuals of different cultural backgrounds

Please note that students enrolled in the UNOPS Internship Programme receive no money from UNOPS and all costs connected with their participation in the Programme must be borne either by the student’s university or by the student, who must obtain financing. Interns must also make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and medical insurance.

Application process

Applications that meet the eligibility criteria are shared with units at UNOPS headquarters or regional offices, depending on the candidate’s preferred duty station. The hosting unit contacts candidates to arrange an interview.

Due to the high number of applications received UNOPS cannot respond to all applications.

Interested applicants should complete an Internship Programme Application Form and submit it with the necessary supporting documents to vacancies@unops.org, ensuring that you enter "INTERNSHIP:..." in the e-mail subject line.