ABOUT US: UNOPS | Who we are; UNOPS | Organization overview
NIGERIA PROJECT: UNOPS | Nigeria Project Unit
INTERNSHIPS: UNOPS | Internships


UNOPS Internships provide exceptional, penultimate- and final-year students enrolled in advanced university degree programmes the opportunity to gain practical experience working in a United Nations organization. Interns perform practical work assignments, applying and developing their skills under the guidance of experienced professionals. All units and offices at UNOPS have hosted interns specializing in a variety of professional fields.


Eligibility criteria
  • Students must be pursuing an advanced university degree, such as a Masters or a PhD. Undergraduate students are ineligible.
  • Candidates must specialize in a field relevant to the mission and work of UNOPS
  • Fluency in English is normally essential but in some regions French or Spanish may be required. Knowledge of other United Nations working languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, Spanish or Russian) is an asset
  • Candidates must be able to adapt to new environments and establish and maintain good working relations with individuals of different cultural backgrounds

Please note that students accepted as UNOPS interns receive no money from UNOPS and all costs connected with their assignments must be borne either by their universities or by the students themselves. Interns must also make their own arrangements for accommodation, travel and medical insurance.


Work experience
It is possible for university graduates to do unpaid work experience at UNOPS without being currently enrolled in an advanced university degree. Interested candidates should submit their applications to internship vacancy announcements.



Application process
Intern applications that meet the eligibility criteria are shared with units at UNOPS headquarters or regional offices, depending on the candidate’s preferred duty station. The hosting unit contacts candidates to arrange an interview.
Due to the high number of applications received UNOPS cannot respond to all applications.
Interested applicants should complete an Internship Application Form and submit it with the necessary supporting documents to [email protected], ensuring that you enter "INTERNSHIP:..." in the e-mail subject line.