UNESCO Internship Program 2026

Applications are now open for the UNESCO Internship Program 2026. This 6-month internship opportunity is available for students and recent graduates in all fields of study who want to gain practical experience with one of the United Nations’ specialized agencies. The program offers placements at UNESCO Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes worldwide. This is a partially funded internship where UNESCO provides limited medical insurance coverage up to USD 30,000, but does not cover visa fees or travel expenses.

The application deadline is 31st December 2025, and there is no application fee required. Students and recent graduates from around the world who are at least 18 years old and proficient in English can apply. The best part? No IELTS test is required to apply for this internship! You can check out more Internships, BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details

• Program Name: UNESCO Internship Program 2026
• Host Organization: UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)
• Internship Duration: 6 months
• Location: UNESCO Headquarters, Field Offices, and Institutes (Multiple locations worldwide)
• Eligible Fields: All fields of study
• Funding Type: Partially funded (limited medical insurance provided)
• Medical Insurance: Up to USD 30,000
• Application Deadline: 31st December 2025
• Eligible Nationalities: All countries
• Age Requirement: Minimum 18 years old
• Application Fee: No application fee
• Language Requirement: English proficiency (No IELTS required)

Who Can Apply?

Educational Requirements

• Currently enrolled students (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. programs)
• Recent graduates who are enrolled in a graduate program
• Bachelor’s degree holders who are currently pursuing a Master’s degree

Important Note: Candidates who have completed their bachelor’s degree but are NOT enrolled in a Master’s degree program are not eligible to apply.

Also check: Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships 2026 (Fully Funded)

Other Eligibility Criteria

• Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application
• Language Skills: Proficiency in English is required
• Computer Skills: Excellent knowledge of computer systems and office-related software
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a team and adapt to an international working environment
• Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Also check: Stipendium Hungaricum Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2026-2027 and Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship 2026/2027 (Study in Hungary) for BS and MS

Financial Coverage & Benefits

Medical Insurance

UNESCO provides limited insurance coverage of up to USD 30,000 during the internship period.

What UNESCO Does NOT Cover

Please be aware that UNESCO will not provide financial support for:

• Visa fees
• Travel expenses

Leave Entitlement

Interns are entitled to 2.5 days of leave per month during their internship period.

Required Documents

Before applying, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• Valid ID card
• Certificate of Enrollment (for current students)
• Diploma (if you have recently graduated)

Language Note: All application documents must be submitted in either English or French.

Check this: Hardiman PhD Scholarship at University of Galway (Fully Funded)

How to Apply for the UNESCO Internship?

All applicants must apply online through the UNESCO careers portal. Your application will be reviewed by UNESCO managers worldwide. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted via email regarding their selection status.