UNDP Washington Internship 2026

Where to apply (official)

• UNDP Washington internships

Stipend & benefits

These stipends are designed to free you from financial stress so you can focus on your projects and learning. Many interns use the income to offset housing and food costs, travel to the work site, or invest in professional development. Paid internships also signal that the host institution values your time and contributions — a great indicator of organisational culture.

Eligibility

• Currently enrolled in a graduate (Master’s or PhD) programme in a field related to international development, public policy or economics.
• Commit to a minimum of 24 hours per week for at least three months during the internship period.
• Demonstrate proficiency in English; additional UN working languages are advantageous.
• Display strong analytical, communication and organisational skills.

Meeting these requirements is just the first step. Strong candidates also demonstrate passion for the host organisation’s mission, curiosity and a willingness to learn. Think about how your coursework, extracurricular activities and personal projects align with the internship. Reflecting on your own goals will help you craft a compelling application narrative.

Timeline

Deadlines and timelines can change from year to year. Check the official sites regularly and set reminders well ahead of due dates. Early preparation not only reduces stress but also allows time to gather stronger references and revise your application essays.

Required documents

• Résumé highlighting development experience and skills.
• Cover letter addressing your motivation and thematic interests.
• Academic transcripts and proof of current enrolment.
• Letter of reference from a professor or employer.
• Sample of written work or research (optional).

Always scan and save high‑quality copies of your documents. Use descriptive filenames (e.g., Lastname_Firstname_Transcript.pdf) so hiring managers can easily identify them. Proofread your résumé and statement to eliminate typos and ensure dates and GPAs are accurate.

How to apply

1. Research the programme. Read the official pages linked above to confirm the latest requirements and deadlines. Make note of any supplementary materials, such as letters of recommendation, coding samples or language certificates.
2. Prepare your application materials. Tailor your CV to highlight experiences that match the internship’s focus. Draft a concise, compelling motivation letter and solicit feedback from mentors or peers. Gather transcripts and proof of enrolment.
3. Submit your application. Use the online portal specified on the programme site. Check that you have answered all questions thoroughly, uploaded every document and completed any additional forms. Submit at least a few days before the deadline to avoid technical glitches.
4. Prepare for interviews. If shortlisted, you may be invited for one or more interviews. Review the organisation’s mission and recent projects, and prepare examples demonstrating your skills and adaptability. Practice answering behavioural questions and discussing your academic or professional work.
5. Follow up. Send thank‑you notes after interviews and monitor your email for updates. If you receive an offer, respond promptly. If not, request feedback and consider reapplying in a future cycle.

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? Visit the official programme site or email their internships office. Policies such as stipends, eligibility and deadlines are subject to change, so always verify information directly with the host organisation.

Experience & career impact

The value of a paid internship goes far beyond the stipend. As an intern you will be immersed in a professional environment where you can practice the theories and techniques learned in the classroom. Daily tasks may include assisting on live projects, attending strategy meetings, conducting research, analysing data or drafting proposals. Working alongside seasoned professionals exposes you to industry best practices and gives you a sense of the challenges and opportunities in your field. Many organisations also encourage interns to shadow different departments, attend lunch‑and‑learns and participate in networking events. These experiences broaden your perspective and help you identify future career paths.

Internships also build soft skills that employers value. You will learn to collaborate in multicultural teams, communicate clearly with colleagues and stakeholders, and manage your time and priorities when juggling coursework and job responsibilities. Feedback from supervisors provides insight into your strengths and areas for improvement, guiding your professional growth. Completing a reputable internship can make your résumé stand out to future employers, showing that you have practical experience and a track record of commitment. Some programmes even offer pathways to full‑time employment; for example, NASA’s Pathways interns can be converted to permanent positions, while World Bank interns may leverage contacts to secure future roles. Regardless of the outcome, the professional contacts and references you gain are invaluable.

Another important aspect of internships is cultural exposure. Multinational organisations like the OECD, IDB and UN agencies bring together people from diverse backgrounds. By working with international colleagues, you develop intercultural communication skills and sensitivity to different perspectives. This experience is particularly important if you aspire to work in global development or diplomacy. Even tech‑centric programmes like Google Summer of Code encourage collaboration with mentors from around the world, offering opportunities to learn new programming languages, tools and ways of thinking. In many cases, interns also take part in community outreach or corporate social responsibility events, giving back to the communities they serve. These experiences instill a sense of purpose and social responsibility that can guide your career choices.

Insights & tips for success

To make the most of your internship, adopt a proactive mindset from day one. Introduce yourself to colleagues, volunteer for projects and ask clarifying questions when needed. Keep a learning journal where you jot down new concepts, technologies or organisational insights. Setting clear goals with your supervisor early in the internship helps align expectations and provides a roadmap for success. If you encounter obstacles, communicate openly and seek feedback—internships are learning experiences, and supervisors expect questions. Staying organised through task lists or digital planners will help you balance multiple responsibilities and meet deadlines.

Networking is another crucial element. Attend office events, seminars and coffee chats to meet people from different departments. Building relationships not only enriches your internship experience but can also lead to mentorship and future opportunities. LinkedIn is a powerful tool to maintain these connections: after meeting someone, send a personalised note describing what you learned from the conversation and expressing your interest in staying in touch. Join professional associations or online communities related to your field. Participating in hackathons, workshops or industry conferences during your internship shows initiative and expands your network.

If your internship involves remote or hybrid work, establish a dedicated workspace and maintain regular working hours to stay focused. Use collaboration platforms effectively—respond promptly to messages, update project boards and schedule check‑ins with your team. Maintain professionalism in virtual meetings by being prepared, using clear audio and video, and contributing constructively. Lastly, reflect on your internship at its conclusion. Write down key achievements, challenges overcome and skills gained. This reflection will help you articulate your value during future job interviews and identify areas for continuous learning. Remember, each internship is a stepping stone toward your long‑term career goals.