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How to Get a Job at the UN in 2025

    How to Get a Job at the United Nations in 2025

    Working for the United Nations (UN) is a dream shared by professionals around the globe. For me, it was more than a fleeting ambition-it was a vision that took root at 13 when I first saw those iconic UN trucks in films, driven by strong female humanitarians making a tangible difference. I didn’t just see the UN as a workplace but as a calling-a way of life dedicated to helping those who need it most, no matter where they are in the world.

    As I grew older and travelled extensively-visiting over 40 countries-the dream of working for the UN never wavered. Along the way, I explored various pathways, applying for roles with organizations like MSF and the UNV program. Ultimately, I achieved my goal by securing a P3 position with the UN, even before pursuing the other opportunities.

    I imagine you’re here because you, too, dream of working for the United Nations. So, let’s break it down and explore how you can turn that dream into reality in 2025.

    Essential Qualifications to Work at the UN

    To work at the UN, you typically need:

    Once you meet these basic qualifications, you can explore specific pathways to enter the UN system.

    Are You Qualified to Work for the UN?

    If you’re a university student eager to work for the UN, I can relate to your passion and drive. However, for most people, joining the UN isn’t typically an entry-level move. Many begin their careers with local NGOs, government agencies, or academic institutions and eventually transition to the UN after gaining substantial experience. Personally, I had a Masters degree and over 6 years of full-time work experience, mostly in my home country, before securing a role with the UN. There are also NGOs offering entry-level jobs that you could start with to build international field experience.

    That said, entering the UN as a recent graduate isn’t impossible. It requires a strategic approach and leveraging programs specifically designed to bring young talent into the organization. Let’s explore the main pathways:

    #1 UN Internship Program

    The UN Internship Program is a stepping stone for young professionals looking to gain firsthand experience. Interns work alongside UN staff, attend meetings, and contribute to meaningful projects.

    Key Details:

    • Eligibility: Must be in the final year of a university degree or have graduated within the past year.
    • Languages: Proficiency in English or French is required.
    • Duration: Typically 2-6 months.
    • Compensation: It depends. Some UN internships are paid a living stipend, others are not. It largely depends on the specific program and the location.
    • Other Benefits: In some cases, interns may receive additional benefits such as travel allowances, health insurance, or housing support, depending on the location and the agency.

    If you’re interested in a UN internship, it’s important to check the details of the specific program to see whether it is paid or not and what benefits are included.

    Where to Find Internships:

    If you are looking for more in-depth information, you can visit my complete guide to UN Internships.

    #2 UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP)

    The YPP is a competitive initiative aimed at hiring young professionals into the UN Secretariat. It includes an annual entrance examination and professional development opportunities.

    Key Details:

    • Eligibility:
    • Application Process: Opens annually in June via the Inspira platform.

    Where to Apply:

    You can find my Ultimate Guide to the UN Young Professionals Program (YPP) here.

    #3 Junior Professional Officer Programme (JPO)

    The JPO Program offers entry-level professional positions for young talent, sponsored by donor countries. JPOs work at P1 or P2 levels and typically have an advanced degree and 2 years of experience.

    Key Details:

    • Eligibility: Open primarily to nationals of donor countries, though some programs include nationals of developing nations.
    • Duration: Usually a one-year term, renewable based on performance and funding.

    Where to Find JPO Opportunities:

    If you’re looking for more in-depth information, be sure to check out my post on the JPO (Junior Professional Officer) program here.

    #4 UN Volunteer Program (UNV)

    The UNV Program allows individuals to contribute to peace and development efforts worldwide. Volunteers receive a modest monthly living allowance.

    Key Details:

    • Eligibility: Must be at least 18 years old; specific roles may require advanced qualifications.
    • Duration: 3 to 12 months (renewable up to 4 years).
    • Compensation: Varies by location, typically USD 1,800 to 3,500 monthly.

    Where to Apply:

    I’ve created a few resources for those interested in the UNV program. Check out my Comprehensive Guide to the UNV program, or learn how to secure a UNV interview.

    #5 International Staff Positions (P1, P2, P3, P4, P5)

    The UN has various professional levels:

    • P1: Rare, requires no experience.
    • P2: Requires a master’s degree and 2 years of experience.
    • P3: Requires a master’s degree and 5 years of experience.
    • P4: Requires a master’s degree and 7 years of experience.
    • P5: Requires a master’s degree and 10 years of experience, often with senior leadership responsibilities.

    Where to Find Jobs:

    Tips for Getting a Job at the UN in 2025

    Securing a job at the United Nations requires strict adherence to the job posting requirements. You can’t expect to land an interview for a position you’re not qualified for, especially when you’re competing against hundreds or even thousands of applicants. To be successful, you must be strategic-carefully aligning your work experience with the role, tailoring each application to the specific position, and applying to multiple opportunities. There’s no secret to getting in-success comes down to submitting a strong application that meets all requirements, timing, persistence, and a bit of luck. And contrary to popular belief, you don’t need an insider connection (I didn’t). Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

    1. Become a Specialist in a Specific Field: Avoid generalist Master’s programs like humanitarian action or international development. Instead, focus on becoming an expert in a specific area. Consider fields such as engineering, medicine, law, social work, psychology, education, communications, economics, or information technology. By developing specialized, in-demand hard skills, you increase your chances of having your expertise sought after by organizations like the UN.
    2. Gain Field Experience: Consider starting with smaller NGOs to acquire valuable international field experience. If you’re looking to break into the humanitarian aid sector, I highly recommend organizations like MSF (Doctors Without Borders) as a strong starting point. And don’t forget—volunteer experience also counts.
    3. Learn Languages: Fluency in multiple UN languages can enhance your candidacy, but it’s not always a requirement—it depends on the role and the country of operation. Personally, I only speak English, and it hasn’t hindered my career.
    4. Network: Build relationships with professionals in the field to hear about opportunities. Chat to humanitarians who are working in the exact role you are interested in on LinkedIn. Perhaps they are willing to provide you some suggestions.
    5. Target your Applications: Do not waste your time sending out 100 applications to roles that you are not qualified for. You will be screened out immediately. All UN job applications are lengthy. Do yourself a favour and target your applications down to the exact role you are after and only apply to those.
    6. Be Persistent: If you’re genuinely committed to working at the UN, persistence is key. Keep applying, even after receiving rejection emails. Continue building your work experience, both at home and abroad, and stay focused on your ultimate goal.

    Essential Resources for How to Get a Job at the UN in 2025

    Looking for more insights and resources to kickstart or further your humanitarian career? Explore more on The Global Humanitarian Blog for expert advice and actionable tips.

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    Please note: the views and opinions expressed on this blog are that of my own and do not represent the opinions of any agency mentioned.

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