The UNDP Internship Programme 2026 is now open to qualified undergraduates, recent graduates, and students worldwide. This paid opportunity allows you to gain hands-on experience in global development within an international environment at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
UNDP serves as the United Nations’ global development network, operating in 170 countries with over 17,000 staff members. It addresses critical challenges such as extreme poverty, climate change, good governance, renewable energy, crisis prevention, and women’s empowerment.
Available Internship Areas
UNDP offers internships across various workstreams, including remote and on-site positions. Common areas include:
- Media and Advocacy Intern
- Programme and Research Intern
- Legal Intern
- Digital and AI Intern
- Climate and Sustainability Intern
- Communications and Engagement Intern
- Procurement Support Intern
Specific openings vary over time and are advertised individually (e.g., remote media roles or research positions in specific locations).
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the UNDP Internship Programme, you must meet one of the following educational criteria at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s degree or equivalent, or higher).
- Be in the final academic year of a first university degree programme (Bachelor’s level or equivalent).
- Have graduated with a university degree (Bachelor’s or higher) and start the internship within one year of graduation.
Key Competencies:
- Excellent communication skills (solid writing and editing).
- Strong organisational skills and ability to multitask.
- Attention to detail.
- Responsible, responsive, and enthusiastic attitude.
- Interest in global issues and the United Nations.
- Ability to work in a multicultural environment while being mindful of political sensitivities.
Desired Skills:
- Strong IT proficiency, including Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, Power BI, etc.).
- Fluency in English (required); good working knowledge of French and/or Spanish is an asset.
- Knowledge of design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, Illustrator, InDesign) is advantageous.
- Excellent problem-solving and collaborative skills.
Internship Duration and Benefits
- Duration: Typically 6 months (up to 9 months in exceptional cases for academic credit).
- Stipend: Interns receive a monthly stipend to help cover living costs. The amount varies by duty station, assignment type (in-person or remote), and location. For example, stipends may reach around $1,000 per month in places like Copenhagen, with adjustments for remote roles.
- Part-time arrangements are possible, with prorated stipends.
- Note: Internships are not salaried positions, and additional expenses (e.g., travel, accommodation) are usually the intern’s responsibility unless specified.
How to Apply for UNDP Internship 2026 – Step-by-Step Guide
UNDP internships are decentralised and advertised on the official careers portal. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official UNDP Jobs portal: https://jobs.undp.org/ or the Candidate Experience site: APPLY HERE.
- Search for internship vacancies using keywords such as “intern”, “internship”, or specific areas (e.g., “research intern”, “media intern”).
- Review individual postings carefully for details on location (remote or on-site), duration, specific requirements, and deadlines — each opportunity has its own closing date.
- Create an account or log in to the portal if required.
- Select the desired internship position and start your application.
- Complete the online form with your personal details, education, and experience.
- Upload required documents: Prepare a CV/resume, cover letter/motivation statement, and proof of enrolment/graduation (e.g., university letter or transcript). Merge all documents into one PDF file (under 10 MB if specified in the vacancy).
- Submit your application before the deadline. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
- If applying to multiple positions, submit separate applications for each.
Applications are competitive, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews by the hiring office.