To become a United Nations Volunteer is a dream for many. It’s a great opportunity to contribute to global peace and development while gaining invaluable experience. In this guide, we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions on how to become a UN Volunteer, including:
- General Information About UN Volunteering
- Steps to Become a UN Volunteer
- Benefits and Considerations
Take time to learn how the UN Volunteer application process works and how you can qualify for a position. It can be a competitive process.
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How to Become a UN Volunteer-Your Most Asked Questions
General Information About UN Volunteering
Does the UN accept volunteers?
Yes, the UN accepts volunteers. Here’s how you can get involved:
- International Assignments: Volunteer abroad on-site, contributing to global projects and initiatives.
- National Assignments: Volunteer on-site in your home country, supporting local UN programs and initiatives.
- Online Assignments: Contribute your skills and time remotely, supporting peace and development efforts from anywhere.
Who is eligible for UN volunteering?
Individuals aged 18 and above are eligible to become UN volunteers. There is no typical profile for a UN Volunteer, as each assignment is unique and tailored to specific needs. However, you must meet these minimum requirements:
Age requirements:
| Volunteer Category | Age Range |
| International UN Volunteers | 18 and above |
| National UN Volunteers | 18 and above |
| UN Youth Volunteers & UN University Volunteers | 18-26 |
| UN Specialists | 27-80 |
| UN Expert Volunteers | 35-80 |
National requirements:
To qualify as a National UN Volunteers must be one of the following:
- A national of the program country
- Legally residing in the country or territory with refugee status
- Legally residing in the country with stateless status
Educational background:
For higher-level volunteer assignments, a technical diploma, bachelor’s degree or master’s degree is generally required. Specific educational requirements will vary based on the role.
Professional experience:
| Volunteer Category | Years of Experience Required |
| UN Youth Volunteers & University Volunteers | 0-3 years |
| UN Volunteer Specialists | 3-15 years |
| UN Expert Volunteers | Over 15 years |
Language skills:
Proficiency in at least one of the UNV’s official languages-English, French, or Spanish-is required.
Personal qualities:
Successful UN Volunteers exhibit:
- Commitment to volunteering values and respect for diversity
- Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
- Ability to work in multicultural environments
- Adaptability to changing and challenging conditions
What do UN Volunteers do?
UN Volunteers contribute to various roles, including:
- Humanitarian Efforts: Supporting disaster relief and recovery.
- Peacekeeping Missions: Assisting in maintaining peace and security.
- Technical Expertise: Offering skills in health, education and environmental protection.
What do UN Youth Volunteers do?
UN Youth Volunteers, aged 18 to 26, engage in initiatives that promote global peace and development. They work in various fields, such as human rights, climate change and peacebuilding, either in their own country or abroad. Assignments typically last between six and 24 months.
Why become an UN Volunteer
Volunteering with the UN provides:
- Cultural immersion: Experience diverse cultures and global perspectives.
- Professional growth: Gain valuable skills and experiences.
- Global impact: Contribute to international peace and development.
Related content: 5 Benefits of Volunteering
Where can you volunteer with the United Nations?
UN Volunteers can serve in:
- Your home country,
- International locations (including Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and the Pacific),
- Virtual volunteer opportunities.
Steps to Become a UN Volunteer
How to become a UN Volunteer?
Becoming a UN Volunteer involves a multi-step recruitment process that can take from a few weeks to several months. Here’s how to get started:
- Register in the UNV Global Talent Pool: Visit the UN Volunteers program website and create a detailed profile. This involves providing basic information, verifying your account with a numeric code, and detailing your skills, education and experience. This process should take about 45 minutes.
- Application and Matching: The UNV team reviews profiles to match candidates with available positions. If shortlisted, you will be contacted by host agencies for an interview.
- Interviews: Interviews are usually conducted by senior managers and may be in the target language. They often include competency-based questions and, in some cases, skills tests.
- Final Steps: Successful candidates will receive a contract and prepare for their assignment.
How to prepare for a UN Volunteer interview?
To prepare for a UN Volunteer interview you should research the role, understand the UN’s mission and values and reflect on how your skills and experiences align with the needs of the assignment.
In the interview process, the interviewers pay close attention to the candidate’s track record, motivation and attitude towards volunteerism, as well as other personal qualities, such as team spirit and leadership, that are likely to make them successful in their assignments as UN Volunteers.
Learn more about how to prepare for a volunteer interview.
Is it hard to become a UN Volunteer?
Yes, it is hard to become a UN Volunteer due to the high level of competition. However, candidates with relevant skills, experience and a strong dedication to the UN’s mission stand a good chance of being selected.
Benefits and Considerations
Do UN Volunteers get paid?
UN Volunteers get paid a monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) to cover basic expenses, including accommodation, transportation, and meals. International UN Volunteers receive a monthly VLA ranging from $1,500 to $2,200, while national UN Volunteers receive an allowance aligned with local salary scales. The Volunteer Life Allowance is not a salary, and volunteers are not considered formal employees of the United Nations.
What benefits do UN Volunteers get?
UN Volunteers receive benefits such as health insurance, travel expenses, a living allowance, and support for relocation, if necessary.
How long can you serve as a UN Volunteer?
You serve as a UN Volunteer for six to 12 months, with the option to renew your contract. However, the maximum length of service for United Nations volunteers is four years. Keep in mind that extending your contract depends on your performance, a request from the host agency, and confirmation from UNV that funds are available.
Are UN Volunteers considered UN staff?
Yes, UN Volunteers are considered UN staff members and are in the UN Common System, but they are not considered staff members of the UN Secretariat (UNS) or formal employees of the United Nations.
What is the average age of UN Volunteers?
In 2023, the average age of UN Volunteers was 35 years old, with the overall age range spanning from 18 to 78 years.
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