UNESCO Internship Programme

UNESCO

♡ Save

Details checked on 22 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master's, PhD or equivalent, second university degree or higher); bachelor's graduates not enrolled in a graduate programme are not eligible; good command of English or French

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Internship of 1 to 6 months at UNESCO headquarters, field offices or institutes. Applicants join a pool and are contacted directly by a manager if a matching opening appears.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master's, PhD or equivalent, second university degree or higher); bachelor's graduates not enrolled in a graduate programme are not eligible; good command of English or French
2. Note the deadline. Rolling (open all year; applications stay in the internship pool for six months) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Online application in the UNESCO careers portal with CV, motivation and proof of graduate enrolment; medical certificate and insurance proof before starting.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Managers around the world review the pool and contact selected candidates directly

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

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. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
4. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
5. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
6. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for UNESCO Internship Programme?

Currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master's, PhD or equivalent, second university degree or higher); bachelor's graduates not enrolled in a graduate programme are not eligible; good command of English or French

What does UNESCO Internship Programme cover?

Unpaid: no compensation of any kind; interns finance their own travel and living costs and must hold health insurance (UNESCO provides only limited workplace insurance); 2.5 days of leave per month

When is the deadline for UNESCO Internship Programme?

Rolling (open all year; applications stay in the internship pool for six months) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with UNESCO Internship Programme?

Host countries: France.

What documents do I need for UNESCO Internship Programme?

Online application in the UNESCO careers portal with CV, motivation and proof of graduate enrolment; medical certificate and insurance proof before starting.

How are applicants selected for UNESCO Internship Programme?

Managers around the world review the pool and contact selected candidates directly

How much work is the UNESCO Internship Programme application?

Medium: online profile and application in the UNESCO careers portal