The UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a recruitment initiative for talented, highly qualified professionals to start a career as an international civil servant with the UN Secretariat. It consists of an entrance examination process and professional development once those who are successful start their career with the UN.

The YPP examination is held once a year in different subject areas, depending on the needs of the UN. YPP is open to nationals of participating countries. The list of participating countries varies from year to year. The application period typically opens in June each year. Those interested can apply via Inspira.

📍 Location: TBC by UN Secretariat headquarters

📅 Program Period: Successful candidates are placed on the YPP roster for up to 3 years to be selected for available entry-level posts (P-1 or P-2 level).

⏰ Application Deadline: Check Inspira for exact posting dates for your specific subject area

✅ Eligibility

• Nationality: Must be a citizen of a participating UN Member State for the current year.
• Age: Must be 32 years of age or younger by the end of the examination year (born on or after January 1, 1994 for the 2026 cycle).
• Education: At least a 3-year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent first-level university degree) relevant to the examination subject area.
• Languages: Full fluency (speak, read, write, understand) in English or French.