United Nations Secretariat Language Internships

United Nations Department for General Assembly and Conference Management (DGACM)

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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 (master's, PhD or equivalent) or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a recent graduate who starts within one year of graduating. An excellent command of at least two official UN languages other than your main language. Applications are completed in English or French.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

DGACM offers short language internships (typically two months) in the UN Secretariat for graduate students with excellent skills in at least two UN official languages. Positions are advertised on the UN Careers portal, and interns must cover their own travel, accommodation and living costs.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Enrolled in a graduate programme (master's, PhD or equivalent) or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a recent graduate who starts within one year of graduating. An excellent command of at least two official UN languages other than your main language. Applications are completed in English or French.
2. Note the deadline. Jan – Feb and Jul – Aug (internships are usually organised in January-February and July-August; openings are advertised at least three months ahead on careers.un.org) 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. 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. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for United Nations Secretariat Language Internships?

Enrolled in a graduate programme (master's, PhD or equivalent) or in the final year of a first university degree (at least bachelor's level), or a recent graduate who starts within one year of graduating. An excellent command of at least two official UN languages other than your main language. Applications are completed in English or French.

What does United Nations Secretariat Language Internships cover?

Unpaid: the UN states that its internships are not remunerated, and no stipend amount is given on the page; language internships usually last two months

When is the deadline for United Nations Secretariat Language Internships?

Jan – Feb and Jul – Aug (internships are usually organised in January-February and July-August; openings are advertised at least three months ahead on careers.un.org) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with United Nations Secretariat Language Internships?

Host countries: United States.

What documents do I need for United Nations Secretariat Language Internships?

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 United Nations Secretariat Language Internships application?

Medium: Inspira account + cover letter + Personal History Profile