The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) is offering paid internships for 2026, presenting a valuable opportunity for students and recent graduates to contribute to the organization's global mission of protecting children's rights. These internships provide practical experience, skill enhancement, and the chance to work alongside experts in various fields.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a UNICEF internship, candidates generally need to meet the following requirements:

• Enrollment: Applicants must be enrolled in a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program or have graduated within the past year.
• Language Proficiency: A strong command of English or French is usually required.
• Age: Candidates for UNICEF USA internships must be at least 18 years old.
• Nationality: Some internships, like those at UNICEF Jordan, may be open only to nationals of that country.
• Work Authorization: For internships within the USA, applicants must possess valid work authorization, as UNICEF USA does not provide sponsorship.

Benefits of a UNICEF Internship

UNICEF internships offer numerous benefits, including:

• Professional Development: Interns gain real-world experience by working on impactful projects, enhancing their professional skills and contributing to the protection of children's rights globally.
• Financial Support: Many UNICEF internships are paid, with some offering a monthly stipend. For instance, remote internships, particularly within the Education Cannot Wait (ECW) initiative, may offer around $1,700 USD per month for eligible locations such as Geneva, New York, or Copenhagen. UNICEF USA internships pay $17.50 per hour.
• Varied Opportunities: Internships are available in various locations and fields, from the main headquarters in New York to country offices worldwide, including Guinea, Jordan, and Eswatini. These opportunities span areas such as program support, child protection, ICT, and youth participation.
• Meaningful Contribution: Interns contribute to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education and reduced inequalities.
• Networking: Interns collaborate with experienced UN staff, participate in meetings and conferences, and gain exposure to an international, multicultural work environment.
• Flexibility: Some internships offer remote or hybrid work options.
• Academic Credit: It may be possible to receive course credit for the internship.

How to Apply

To apply for a UNICEF internship, follow these general steps:

1. Visit the UN Careers Portal: Go to the official careers website at careers.un.org.
2. Search for Internships: Select "Internship" in the Category drop-down menu to filter the available opportunities.
3. Review and Apply: Carefully review the listed internships and apply to those that match your qualifications and interests. You may apply for more than one position.
4. Prepare Documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents, such as a cover letter, resume, and academic transcripts, as required by the specific internship posting.

Additional Information

• Internships typically last for a minimum of two months and a maximum of six months. UNICEF USA internships usually last for 12 weeks, with interns working up to 30 hours per week during the summer.
• Interns are responsible for their travel arrangements, visa applications, and medical insurance.
• Confidentiality must be maintained regarding unpublished information.

The UNICEF Internship Program 2026 offers a valuable opportunity to gain professional experience in a global humanitarian organization and contribute to improving the lives of children worldwide.