UNCTAD Internship Programme

United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Enrolled in a graduate programme (second university degree or higher), or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a graduate who starts the internship within one year of graduating. Selected candidates provide proof of enrolment, insurance valid in Switzerland and a certificate of good health.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

UNCTAD, the UN body for trade and development, offers internships at its Geneva office. Students apply to specific announcements through the UN careers portal and follow the Internship Applicant's Manual.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Enrolled in a graduate programme (second university degree or higher), or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a graduate who starts the internship within one year of graduating. Selected candidates provide proof of enrolment, insurance valid in Switzerland and a certificate of good health.
2. Note the deadline. Open all year (apply to individual internship announcements on the UN careers portal) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.

Quick answers

Who can apply for UNCTAD Internship Programme?

Enrolled in a graduate programme (second university degree or higher), or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a graduate who starts the internship within one year of graduating. Selected candidates provide proof of enrolment, insurance valid in Switzerland and a certificate of good health.

What does UNCTAD Internship Programme cover?

Unpaid: UNCTAD states that internships are not remunerated; interns arrange their own visas, travel and accommodation and need medical insurance valid in Switzerland

When is the deadline for UNCTAD Internship Programme?

Open all year (apply to individual internship announcements on the UN careers portal) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with UNCTAD Internship Programme?

Host countries: Switzerland.

What documents do I need for UNCTAD Internship Programme?

CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the UNCTAD Internship Programme application?

Medium: UN careers portal application for each announcement