UNICEF Internship Programme 2026: Paid Internship, Monthly Stipend, Eligibility and How to Apply

Overview

The UNICEF Internship Programme gives students and recent graduates direct work experience with the United Nations Children's Fund. Internships are offered throughout the year across UNICEF offices and functions, including communications, programme management, research, administration, public policy, finance, technology and social policy. The duties and location depend on the individual vacancy, and some assignments may be remote or flexible where the position permits.

What you get

UNICEF provides interns with a monthly stipend. A one-time lump-sum contribution toward travel and visa costs may also be provided when funding is available. The amount of the stipend varies with the internship, location and applicable arrangements. Internships normally last between six and 26 weeks and can be full-time or part-time. Interns can gain experience in research and analysis, programme support, policy development, data management, project coordination, administration, public information and humanitarian programmes.

Who can apply

Candidates must be at least 18 years old and either enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate or PhD programme or have graduated within the previous two years. They need proficiency in at least one UNICEF working language, English, French or Spanish, plus any additional language required by the relevant office. Strong academic performance and motivation are expected, and UNICEF's restrictions on relatives working for the organization apply. Relevant professional experience can count in an applicant's favour.

All academic backgrounds are welcome, including international development, public health, social sciences, economics, communications, journalism, finance, business, information technology, data science, public policy, law and education.

How to apply

Candidates search current internship vacancies on the UNICEF careers platform, choose one that matches their qualifications, tailor their CV or application profile to it, submit the application through the UNICEF recruitment system and complete any required assessments.