UNESCO Internship 2025: Apply for Global Graduate Opportunities Before Dec 31

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has launched its 2025 Internship Programme, inviting graduate students and recent postgraduates from across the globe to apply for hands-on professional experience in international development.

The initiative aims to bridge academic learning with real-world application, offering students a chance to work within UNESCO’s diverse departments — spanning education, science, culture, communication, and information — while contributing to the organisation’s global mission.

Purpose and Structure of the Programme

According to UNESCO, the internship is designed to immerse students in practical assignments that enhance their understanding of international cooperation and policy implementation.
“The Internship Programme enables participants to learn about UNESCO’s mandate and develop technical knowledge through real-world tasks,” the agency noted.

Internship placements last between one to six months, depending on department requirements and the intern’s availability.

Eligibility Criteria for UNESCO Internship 2025

To qualify, applicants must:

• Be at least 20 years old.

• Be currently enrolled in a graduate programme (Master’s, PhD, or equivalent).

• OR have completed a postgraduate degree within the last 12 months.

Candidates who have only completed an undergraduate degree and are not enrolled in a higher programme are ineligible.

Applicants must also demonstrate:

• Excellent command of English or French (working knowledge of the other language is an advantage).

• Proficiency in computer and digital tools.

• Strong teamwork and communication skills.

Proficiency in both official languages may be required for roles based at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris.

Application Process and Internship Details

Interested candidates can apply via UNESCO’s official careers portal. Applications remain valid for six months and are reviewed globally by departmental hiring managers.

While the internship offers valuable experience in global governance and policy, UNESCO has clarified that the positions are unpaid:

“UNESCO does not remunerate interns. There is no financial compensation or stipend for internship assignments.”

Applicants must cover their own travel, visa, and living expenses during the programme.

If no update is received within six months of applying, candidates should assume their application was not selected for the current cycle.

Departments Offering Internships

Internship opportunities are available in a range of departments, including:

• Office of the Director-General

• Education Sector

• Culture Sector

• Natural Sciences

• Communication and Information

• Bureau of Human Resource Management

• Digital Business Solutions

• Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission

These placements provide exposure to UNESCO’s global initiatives supporting sustainable development, cultural preservation, and digital transformation.

Important Deadline

The final date to submit applications for the UNESCO Internship Programme 2025 is December 31, 2025. Candidates are advised to apply early and ensure that their contact information remains valid for at least six months.