Global UNDP Internships 2026: Stipends for Graduates & Students. Explore fully funded global UNDP internships for 2026, including the Washington DC internships offering stipends for graduate students. Learn eligibility, roles, deadlines, and application steps.
Overview: UNDP Internships for 2026
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) offers some of the most competitive and prestigious internships for graduate students worldwide. These internships provide hands-on exposure to sustainable development work, policy analysis, global partnerships, climate action, humanitarian support, and international cooperation.
For 2026, UNDP offers global remote, hybrid, and on-site internships—all of which include monthly stipends based on the duty station. Among the most sought-after opportunities are the UNDP Washington Representation Office (WRO) internships.
UNDP Washington 2026 Internships
The UNDP Washington Representation Office serves as the main liaison between UNDP and:
- The U.S. Congress
- The U.S. State Department
- USAID
- The World Bank Group
- Multilateral organisations
- The diplomatic community
- Policy think tanks
- Media and civil society
Interns support high-level engagements, attend important policy events, and help advance UNDP’s global mission.
UNDP Washington offers two internship tracks:
- General Internship
- Communications & Outreach Internship
Both profiles are open to competitive candidates from around the world.
General Eligibility Requirements
All applicants must meet the following:
- Be enrolled in a graduate degree programme in communications, economics, public administration, environmental studies, or other development-related fields.
- Must return to their studies after completing the internship.
- Able to work 3 months consecutively, a minimum of 24 hours per week.
- Strong interest in global development and multilateral work.
- Respect for UN values and the UNDP mission.
- Proficiency in English (writing and speaking).
1. UNDP Washington General Internship
This internship gives graduate students direct exposure to UNDP’s work in the United States. It complements academic studies with practical, professional experience in:
- Multilateral technical cooperation
- Global governance
- International development
- Policy research
- Diplomacy
Desirable Skills
(Not required, but beneficial)
- Experience working on Capitol Hill or knowledge of U.S. Congress
- Field experience in development
- Familiarity with government policy processes
Typical Tasks
- Attend hearings and policy events relevant to UNDP
- Assist in planning and executing UNDP events
- Draft briefing notes and responses
- Update databases and contact lists
- Support day-to-day operations of the Washington Office
2. UNDP Washington Communications & Outreach Internship
Ideal for students specializing in communications, journalism, digital strategy, or public policy communication.
Responsibilities
- Update and maintain the UNDP Washington website
- Support communications strategy development
- Research UNDP news, articles, and internal resources
- Monitor media and assemble daily clips
- Assist with social media, newsletters, and content creation
- Contribute to outreach materials and events
Preferred Skills
- Strong writing and editing abilities
- Experience with communications tools (Twitter, Hootsuite, newsletters)
- Audio/video editing knowledge
- Familiarity with U.S./Washington media
- Interest in development storytelling and advocacy
Stipends & Conditions of Service
- UNDP interns receive a monthly stipend, which varies by duty station.
- Part-time interns receive pro-rated stipends.
- Interns must provide health insurance proof.
- Internships may be remote, hybrid, or on-site, depending on office needs.
- Internships do not guarantee employment with UNDP.
- Interns must maintain confidentiality of all unpublished UN information.
- UNDP does not charge fees for any stage of recruitment.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit all 4 documents, or their application will not be reviewed:
- Cover Letter
- CV (1–2 pages only)
- Completed UNDP Application Form
- One Reference Letter
Send all materials to:
undp.washington@undp.org
Copy: Ebru.Kuran@undp.org
Subject Line Example: Application – Washington Internship Spring 2026
Global UNDP Internships 2026: Stipends for Graduates & Students
| Internship Period | Start Date | End Date | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | March | 15 June 2026 | 15 January 2026 (11:59 PM ET) |
| Fall 2026 | September | 15 December 2026 | 15 June 2026 (11:59 PM ET) |
Only shortlisted candidates are contacted due to high application volume.
What You Gain from a UNDP Washington Internship
- Exposure to global policy processes
- Participation in high-level conferences and meetings
- Hands-on experience in UNDP’s development and communication work
- Opportunity to engage with U.S. policymakers and international actors
- Strengthened research, writing, and analytical skills
- A prestigious addition to your academic and professional portfolio
Summary Table: UNDP Washington Internships 2026
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Washington, DC (remote/hybrid possible) |
| Tracks | General & Communications/Outreach |
| Stipend | Yes (varies by duty station) |
| Duration | 3–6 months |
| Hours | Min. 24 hours per week |
| Eligibility | Graduate students returning to studies |
| Deadline (Spring) | 15 January 2026 |
| Deadline (Fall) | 15 June 2026 |
Conclusion
The Global UNDP Internships 2026, including the prestigious Washington DC placements, offer a powerful opportunity for graduate students to engage with sustainable development, international cooperation, and global policy. With a stipend, hands-on learning, and frontline exposure to high-level development work, these internships stand among the best pathways for emerging professionals.
