Applications are open for the UNHCR Internship Program 2027, a paid internship route for students and recent graduates from around the world. The programme is open to all nationalities and is designed to give eligible candidates experience in the humanitarian sector while supporting UNHCR’s work with refugees and stateless people.
Key facts
- The internship is open to undergraduate students, graduate students and recent graduates.
- Placements are paid and may include a monthly allowance to help with food, transport and living costs.
- Internships can run for two to six months, with possible extensions in some cases.
- Opportunities are offered across different UNHCR locations worldwide, including headquarters, global service centres and field offices.
- There is no fixed deadline; each internship position has its own closing date.
What does this mean for applicants?
For eligible students and recent graduates, the main practical benefit is access to funded work experience in an international humanitarian setting. UNHCR says interns may receive a monthly allowance, and those engaged from outside their duty-station country may be reimbursed for return travel by the most economical route available.
The programme is aimed at candidates whose studies or interests relate to UNHCR’s work. Internships can start at any time during the year, and the exact opportunity, location and closing date depend on the office offering the placement.
- Who can apply: students and recent graduates from all countries.
- Support offered: monthly allowance and, in some cases, return travel reimbursement.
- Where: Geneva, Amman, Budapest, Copenhagen and field country offices, among other locations.
- When to apply: whenever a suitable position is posted, before that role’s deadline.
How long do UNHCR internships last?
UNHCR says internships normally last between two and six months. Full-time internships may be extended by up to eight months, while part-time internships may be extended by up to 12 months. The duration depends on the position and the needs of the office hosting the intern.
Where are the internships based?
The programme is offered in multiple locations worldwide, including UNHCR headquarters in Geneva, Global Service Centres in Amman, Budapest and Copenhagen, as well as field country offices. Some internships may also allow telework, subject to managerial approval.
What benefits are included?
UNHCR says eligible interns may receive a monthly allowance to help cover food, transport and living costs. It also says interns who travel from another country for the placement may be reimbursed for return travel costs by the most economical route available, regardless of how long the journey takes.
How does the application process work?
Applicants are expected to use the UNHCR recruitment portal, choose a suitable internship, complete a profile, fill in the application in English and submit it before the closing date for that role. UNHCR says only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a fixed deadline for the UNHCR Internship Program 2027?
No. UNHCR says internships are offered throughout the year and each position has its own closing date, so applicants need to check the deadline for the specific role they want.
Who is eligible to apply?
UNHCR says the programme is open to students and recent graduates from all countries, including undergraduate and graduate students. Candidates with refugee or stateless backgrounds are also welcome.
