The UNDP Graduate Programme 2026/28 is now officially open for applications. Learn about eligibility, benefits, international assignments, how the programme works, and what young professionals can expect from this competitive UN career pathway.
The UNDP Graduate Programme 2026/28 has officially launched, offering an exceptional opportunity for talented young graduates from UNDP programme countries to begin their careers within one of the world’s leading development organizations. This competitive programme provides hands-on experience, international exposure, and a structured learning journey designed to shape the next generation of leaders in global development.
Launched in 2021, the programme aims to strengthen UNDP’s workforce, advance diversity, and build a pipeline of committed young professionals who can help accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With thousands of applicants each cycle, the programme has quickly become one of the most sought-after entry points into the UN system.
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What Is the UNDP Graduate Programme?
The Graduate Programme offers successful candidates a two-year international assignment with a UNDP country office, regional office, or headquarters. Participants gain practical experience supporting UNDP’s mission to eradicate poverty, strengthen governance, advance gender equality, and promote sustainable development.
The programme consists of two main streams:
1. Programme & Policy Stream
Participants work directly on UNDP projects and initiatives related to SDG acceleration, governance, climate action, innovation, crisis response, poverty reduction, and other thematic areas.
2. Corporate Operations Stream
Graduates support UNDP’s internal functions, including finance, HR, supply chain, project operations, oversight, and digital transformation.
Who Can Apply?
The 2026/28 intake is open to young professionals who meet the following requirements:
Nationality
- You must be from a UNDP programme country
UNDP strongly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Persons with disabilities
- Indigenous peoples
- Minority groups
- First-generation university graduates
Academic Requirements
You must have either:
- A Master’s degree with no more than 1 year of relevant work experience
OR - A Bachelor’s degree with 2–3 years of relevant experience
Relevant fields include:
- International development
- Economics
- Social sciences
- Public administration
- Environmental studies
- Data science
- Political science
- And other development-related areas
Other Requirements
- Strong interest in a UN career and SDG acceleration
- Strong digital, innovation, or systems-thinking skills
- Fluency in English (spoken and written)
- Knowledge of French, Arabic, or Spanish is an asset for some duty stations
- Willingness to live and work abroad for 2 years
Where Graduates Are Deployed
Previous cohorts have worked across diverse locations, including:
- New York (Headquarters)
- Thailand
- Mongolia
- Samoa
- Switzerland
- Bhutan
- Maldives
- Turkey
- Philippines
- Papua New Guinea
- Laos
- Timor Leste
- Trinidad & Tobago
- Micronesia
- Solomon Islands
The deployment location depends on available roles and organizational needs.
What the Programme Offers
1. International Assignment (2 Years)
Graduates complete a full-time professional assignment in a UNDP office, contributing directly to programmes that support the SDGs.
2. Structured Formation Journey
Participants receive:
- Tailored training
- Coaching and mentorship
- Leadership development
- Exposure to the UN development system
- Technical learning opportunities
3. Professional Growth
Graduates gain real-world experience working with top experts and partners including:
- Governments
- UN agencies
- Civil society
- Private sector
- International donors
4. A Pathway into the UN System
While the programme does not guarantee a permanent position, graduates are well-positioned to pursue longer-term careers within UNDP and other UN agencies.
Inspiring Graduate Stories
The programme has transformed the careers of young professionals worldwide. Past participants include:
- Omar Marzouk, supporting SDG implementation
- Phallyka Chan, working on climate resilience
- Estefanía Asturizaga, contributing to global governance
- Sylvie Kuyisenga, advancing gender equality
- Mohammed Jopran Alsaied, implementing innovation solutions
- Gcinile Ndzinisa, supporting inclusive development
- Charya Gamalath, applying digital tools to development challenges
These stories demonstrate how the Graduate Programme propels young professionals into impactful global careers.
Next Recruitment Campaign
The application window for the 2026/28 cohort is now officially open.
UNDP will provide additional updates regarding timelines, assessment steps, and deployment details in the coming weeks.
Candidates are encouraged to prepare their documents early and monitor UNDP career channels for announcements.
APPLY NOW
Applications Officially Open
For more opportunities like these, be sure to follow us on Facebook, join our WhatsApp Group and Channel, and connect with us on LinkedIn.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is the UNDP Graduate Programme paid?
Yes. Participants receive a competitive compensation package aligned with UNDP’s international assignment conditions.
2. Do I need work experience?
Yes.
- Master’s: max 1 year
- Bachelor’s: 2–3 years
3. Can I choose my duty station?
No. Placement depends on UNDP needs and candidate profiles.
4. Can I apply if I studied outside my home country?
Yes, as long as you are a national of a UNDP programme country.
5. Are remote placements available?
No. This is a fully in-person, international assignment.
6. Can I apply if English is the only language I speak?
Yes. English is mandatory. Other languages are an asset but not required for all roles.
7. Does the programme lead to permanent employment?
There is no guarantee, but many graduates secure UN contracts after completing the programme.
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