The IOC Internship Programme 2026 offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience with the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO.
The programme provides short-term internship opportunities in areas related to ocean science, ocean observations, data management, capacity development, communications, partnerships, and other relevant fields.
Internships are designed around a learning-by-doing approach, allowing successful candidates to gain practical experience while contributing to the work of IOC/UNESCO.
IOC Internship Programme Summary
- Host Organisation: Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO
- Location: Multiple Locations
- Programme Type: Internship
- Eligible Study Levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- Duration: 1 to 6 months
- Deadline: December 31, 2026
About the IOC Internship Programme
The Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission of UNESCO coordinates international cooperation in ocean science and related services across its Member States.
The IOC supports programmes and initiatives in areas including ocean observations, marine data management, tsunami warning systems, marine spatial planning, capacity development, and the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development.
Through the internship programme, participants may support different areas of IOC/UNESCO’s work while gaining exposure to an international professional environment.
Internship assignments typically last between one and six months, with specific responsibilities and terms of reference outlined in the internship agreement.
Available Areas
Depending on available opportunities and organisational needs, interns may work in areas such as:
- Ocean science
- Ocean observations
- Marine and ocean data management
- Capacity development
- Communications
- Partnerships
- Marine spatial planning
- Tsunami warning and preparedness
- International cooperation
- Other areas related to the work of IOC/UNESCO
Benefits of the IOC Internship Programme 2026
The IOC Internship Programme provides successful candidates with practical professional experience in an international organisation.
Benefits include:
- Practical experience within IOC/UNESCO.
- Opportunities to contribute to projects related to ocean science and sustainable development.
- Exposure to an international and multicultural working environment.
- 2.5 days of leave per month during the internship.
- An additional one working day of leave per complete month of internship, where applicable.
- Limited workplace insurance coverage for risks directly attributable to the internship assignment.
Important Funding Information
The UNESCO internship programme is unpaid. Interns do not receive financial compensation or a salary for their internship assignments.
Applicants should therefore consider their ability to cover any personal expenses associated with participation, including accommodation, transportation, and other living costs where applicable.
Eligibility Criteria for the IOC Internship Programme 2026
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Be currently enrolled in the third or final year of a Bachelor’s degree programme; or
- Be currently enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme, or an equivalent second university degree.
- Alternatively, have completed a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degree within the 12 months preceding the issuance of the Internship Agreement.
- Applicants seeking technical or vocational assignments must be in the final year of a specialised technical or vocational programme or have graduated within the previous 12 months.
- Have an excellent command of either English or French, both written and spoken.
- Knowledge of the other language is considered an advantage and may be required for some positions.
- Have strong computer and office software skills.
- Be able to work effectively as part of a team.
- Be adaptable to an international and multicultural working environment.
- Demonstrate strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Required Information
During the application process, candidates may be asked to provide information about:
- Educational background
- Skills and competencies
- Previous experience, where applicable
- Areas of expertise
- Professional interests
- Preferred fields or domains of work
Applicants should ensure that their information accurately reflects their qualifications and areas of interest.
How to Apply for the IOC Internship Programme 2026
Follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Visit the UNESCO Careers Portal
Applications must be submitted through the official UNESCO careers platform.
Apply Through the UNESCO Careers Portal
Step 2: Find a Relevant Internship Vacancy
Search for available internship opportunities that match your:
- Academic background
- Skills
- Area of expertise
- Professional interests
Applicants may be applying to join UNESCO’s pool of internship candidates rather than applying directly to a specific internship assignment.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
During the application process, provide the required information about your qualifications, competencies, experience, and interests.
Applicants should prepare their information before beginning the application, as the online process may have a limited completion period.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
After successfully submitting an application, eligible candidates may remain in the internship talent pool for further consideration.
The candidature is generally valid for six months.
Step 5: Wait for Selection
Relevant hiring managers may assess candidates in the internship pool and contact those selected for available opportunities.
Candidates who do not receive an update within six months may not have been selected during that application period.
📋 Required Documents
- Educational background
- Skills and competencies
- Previous experience, where applicable
- Areas of expertise
- Professional interests
- Preferred fields or domains of work