UNESCO invites applications for 2025 internship program for graduate and postgraduate students

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has opened applications for its 2025 Internship program, inviting graduate students and recent postgraduates to gain practical experience in its global initiatives.

The program offers participants hands-on exposure across UNESCO’s sectors, including education, science, culture, and communication, while enhancing their academic and professional understanding of international policy and development.

“The Internship program enables opportunities for students to learn about UNESCO’s mandate and programs. The students can also enhance their academic and technical knowledge through practical assignments,” UNESCO said.

Eligible applicants must be at least 20 years old and currently enrolled in a graduate program, such as a master’s degree, PhD, or equivalent. Recent postgraduates who completed their degree within the past 12 months may also apply.

“Candidates who have completed their full-time bachelor’s degree but are not enrolled in a graduate program are not eligible to apply,” UNESCO clarified.

Applicants are expected to have strong English or French skills, with working knowledge of the other language considered an advantage. Certain roles at UNESCO headquarters may require proficiency in both languages.

Candidates should also demonstrate computer literacy, teamwork, and effective communication, while keeping contact details valid for six months and submitting applications in English or French.

Internships can last from one to six months. Participants are responsible for securing visas and covering travel and living costs, as UNESCO does not provide financial compensation.

“UNESCO does not remunerate interns. There is no compensation, financial or otherwise, for internship assignments,” the organization said.

Placement is not guaranteed, and applications remain on UNESCO’s portal for six months, subject to review by hiring managers worldwide.

“If you do not receive any update within six months, it means that your application has not been successful,” UNESCO added.

Internship opportunities span multiple departments, including the Office of the Director-General, Education, Culture, Natural Sciences, Communication and Information, the Bureau of Human Resource Management, Digital Business Solutions, and the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission.

The deadline to apply for the 2025 UNESCO Internship program is Dec 31.