Apply for the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026, a two-year, fully funded fellowship for young professionals from UNDP programme countries. Gain global development experience, mentorship, and leadership training with the United Nations.
Launch Your International Development Career with the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is inviting talented, ambitious graduates from across its programme countries to apply for the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026 — a two-year, fully funded young professionals’ fellowship designed to develop the next generation of leaders in global development.
This unique opportunity allows emerging professionals to gain hands-on experience working on sustainable development projects that address today’s most pressing challenges — from poverty reduction and gender equality to climate action and digital transformation.
If you are a recent graduate with a passion for driving change and making an impact, the UNDP Graduate Programme offers a life-changing entry into the United Nations system.
About the UNDP Graduate Programme
The UNDP Graduate Programme is a flagship talent development initiative that brings together exceptional recent graduates from the more than 170 countries where UNDP operates.
It provides participants with a two-year professional placement at either a UNDP Country Office or Regional Hub, where they contribute to key projects aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Programme Objectives
The Graduate Programme is designed to:
- Equip participants with professional and leadership skills for a long-term career in development.
- Integrate young, diverse, and innovative perspectives into UNDP’s global workforce.
- Build a strong pipeline of future UN leaders committed to advancing inclusive and sustainable development.
Who Can Apply for the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements at the time of application:
- Education:
Hold a Master’s degree, or a Bachelor’s degree with up to two years of relevant experience, in a field related to UNDP’s work (e.g., international development, economics, political science, public policy, climate change, data science, or social sciences). - Citizenship:
Be a national of a UNDP programme country (a country in which UNDP operates). - Language:
Demonstrate fluency in English (spoken and written).
Knowledge of a second UN language (French, Spanish, or Arabic) is an asset. - Experience:
Up to two years of relevant work experience following completion of a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
UNDP strongly encourages applications from:
- Women,
- Persons with disabilities,
- Indigenous peoples,
- Minority groups, and
- First-generation university graduates.
The programme reflects UNDP’s core values of equality, inclusion, and opportunity for all, aiming to build a workforce that represents the communities it serves.
Programme Duration and Structure
The UNDP Graduate Programme runs for two years, during which participants are placed in a UNDP country or regional office.
Each fellow is assigned a supervisor and mentor, who provide ongoing guidance and professional support.
Programme Components
- On-the-Job Learning – Practical experience working on live UNDP projects in areas such as:
- Democratic governance and peacebuilding
- Gender equality and women’s empowerment
- Climate change and environment
- Economic transformation and inclusive growth
- Innovation, digital development, and partnerships
- Formal Learning Modules – Fellows participate in structured learning sessions, covering:
- Results-based management
- Policy design and implementation
- Project evaluation and reporting
- Communication, negotiation, and leadership skills
- Career Mentorship and Coaching – Personalized mentorship to help fellows grow professionally and prepare for long-term UN or development careers.
- Global Networking – Fellows engage with peers from around the world, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing across the UNDP network.
What You’ll Gain as a UNDP Graduate Fellow
The UNDP Graduate Programme is not just a job — it’s an investment in your future as a global development professional.
Key Benefits
- Fully Funded Placement: UNDP covers all fellowship-related costs, including a stipend, travel, and insurance.
- Professional Development: Access to exclusive training modules and leadership workshops.
- Global Experience: Hands-on exposure to real development challenges in diverse country contexts.
- Networking Opportunities: Collaborate with experts, policymakers, and leaders from around the world.
- Career Pathway: A stepping-stone to long-term opportunities within UNDP or other UN agencies.
Graduates leave the programme with strong technical skills, leadership capacity, and an international network of peers and mentors.
Application Process for the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026
The application and selection process is highly competitive, designed to identify outstanding individuals with leadership potential and a demonstrated commitment to development.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, review the educational and citizenship requirements. Only nationals of UNDP programme countries may apply.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Documents
You’ll need:
- Updated CV or résumé
- Motivation statement (max. 1,000 words) describing your interest in sustainable development and how the Graduate Programme aligns with your career goals
- Academic transcripts or certificates
- Language certificates (if applicable)
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Applications are submitted online through the UNDP Careers Portal.
Search for “UNDP Graduate Programme 2026” under “Early Career Opportunities.”
Step 4: Assessment Process
Shortlisted applicants may undergo:
- An online reasoning and situational judgment test
- Video or panel interviews
- A case study or written exercise
Step 5: Final Selection and Placement
Successful candidates are placed in one of UNDP’s country or regional offices. Placements are based on:
- Applicant’s background and expertise
- UNDP’s programmatic needs
- Geographic and gender diversity considerations
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Meet the UNDP Graduates: Stories of Impact
Participants from previous cohorts have gone on to work in leadership roles across the UN system and other global organizations.
From designing digital inclusion projects in Rwanda to coordinating climate resilience initiatives in the Pacific, UNDP Graduate Fellows are driving measurable change in their communities and beyond.
As one graduate shared:
“The UNDP Graduate Programme empowered me to transform my passion for development into tangible action. Working on real projects taught me how policy translates into lives changed.”
Why You Should Apply
The UNDP Graduate Programme 2026 is a launchpad for global careers in development. By joining, you will:
- Contribute directly to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Develop a strong professional foundation in project management, innovation, and policy implementation.
- Gain international exposure and cross-cultural communication experience.
- Join a network of young changemakers working to make the world fairer, greener, and more inclusive.
If you’re passionate about solving global challenges, this is your opportunity to be part of the change.
Important Dates
- Application Opening: Expected March 2026
- Application Deadline: Typically 4–6 weeks after opening
- Programme Start: Late 2026 or early 2027
Candidates are advised to monitor the UNDP Careers Portal and official social media pages for updates.
Meta Description
Apply for the UNDP Graduate Programme 2026, a two-year, fully funded fellowship for young professionals from UNDP programme countries. Gain global development experience, mentorship, and leadership training with the United Nations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is eligible to apply for the UNDP Graduate Programme?
Nationals of UNDP programme countries holding a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant disciplines are eligible.
2. Is the UNDP Graduate Programme paid?
Yes. Fellows receive a competitive stipend and full coverage of travel and insurance.
3. What is the duration of the fellowship?
The programme lasts two years with structured learning and professional development components.
4. Can applicants from any country apply?
Only applicants from UNDP programme countries (countries where UNDP has operations) may apply.
5. What fields of study are relevant?
International relations, development studies, economics, political science, public administration, climate change, or related fields.
6. Does the programme guarantee employment after completion?
While not guaranteed, many fellows transition into UNDP staff positions or other UN roles after completing the programme.
7. When will applications open?
The next campaign is expected to open in early 2026. Keep an eye on the UNDP Careers Page for announcements.
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