How to apply for UN jobs online
Lottie Watters a writer at www.devex.com about his article “Your guide to the UN job application process” have said that “The online application is the first step to any United Nations job. Though it’s a straightforward process, many applications are screened out at the first stage because of simple mistakes.
The U.N. Secretariat offices utilize the Inspira online application system, while other U.N. agencies use their own platforms — though they are similar, explained Chloé Saimpert, human resources officer at the U.N. Office for Disaster Risk Reduction.
There’s also no one place to see all U.N. vacancies, so make sure to check the website of each agency you want to apply for.”
Learning Outcome
After reading this blog post, you will:
- Understand the full process of how to apply for UN jobs online.
- Know how to create an account and search for UN vacancies.
- Be able to prepare documents needed for UN job applications.
- Learn tips on how to make your application stand out.
- Be familiar with what to expect after submitting your application.
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Topic Contents Outline
- Introduction
- Why Work at the UN?
- Understanding the UN Job System
- How to Register on the UN Careers Portal
- How to Search for UN Jobs Online
- How to Prepare Your Application for UN Jobs
- Tips on How to Apply for UN Jobs Online Successfully
- What Happens After You Apply for UN Jobs Online?
- Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Apply for UN Jobs Online
- Conclusion
Topic Goal
The main goal of this post is to guide beginners on how to apply for UN jobs online in a simple, clear, and complete way, so they can confidently send their job applications to the United Nations without confusion or worry.
Introduction
Many people dream of working with the United Nations (UN) because it is a respected and global organization that helps solve big world problems. But for beginners, the process of applying for UN jobs online may seem confusing and hard. The steps look many, and the rules can seem strict. But do not worry! This blog will explain everything you need to know about how to apply for UN jobs online in very simple and easy English.
You do not need any special experience to understand this. This guide is made for beginners like you. By the end of this post, you will be ready to start your journey of working for the UN.
Read also: How to apply for UNICEF volunteer in Nigeria
Topic Content
Why Work at the UN?
Before learning how to apply for UN jobs online, let’s understand why many people want to work at the UN.
The UN is one of the world’s biggest and most famous organizations.
You can help people, communities, and countries.
The salary is good and there are benefits like health care, travel allowance, and paid leave.
You can meet and work with people from different countries.
You can grow your career and learn new things.
Understanding the UN Job System
The UN has many kinds of jobs. There are international jobs (for people from any country), national jobs (for people from one country), and volunteer jobs. When you know what type of job you want, it will be easier to apply.
The most common UN organizations that advertise jobs include:
- UNDP (United Nations Development Programme)
- UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund)
- UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees)
- WHO (World Health Organization)
- FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization)
And many others. All these agencies advertise jobs online.
How to Register on the UN Careers Portal
To learn how to apply for UN jobs online, you first need to register on their website.
- Visit the UN Careers Portal: Go to https://careers.un.org
- Click on “Create Account”: You will be asked for your name, email address, and to create a password.
- Confirm your email: You will get a confirmation email. Click the link in the email to activate your account.
- Now your account is ready.
Read also: Avoid 10 Common Mistakes When Applying for Jobs
How to Search for UN Jobs Online
Knowing how to search for jobs is a big part of how to apply for UN jobs online.
- Login to your account.
- Click on “Job Openings.”
- You can search by job title, location, department, job level, or job category.
- Read the job description carefully.
- If you find a job you like and you qualify, you can apply.
How to Prepare Your Application for UN Jobs
You must prepare your documents well before you apply. This is an important step in how to apply for UN jobs online.
- Personal History Profile (PHP): This is the UN online CV. Fill it carefully.
- Cover Letter: Always include a short letter explaining why you want the job and why you are the best candidate.
- Education Certificates: Upload your school and university certificates.
- Work Experience: Clearly write all your job history.
- Language Skills: The UN likes people who speak English, French, or other UN official languages.
- Tips on How to Apply for UN Jobs Online Successfully
- If you want to succeed in how to apply for UN jobs online, follow these tips:
- Read the Job Requirements Fully: Check qualifications, experience, and skills.
- Tailor Your Application: Change your CV and cover letter to match each job.
- Use Keywords from the Job Posting: This makes your application stand out.
- Be Honest: Do not write skills or experience you do not have.
- Check Everything Before Submitting: Avoid spelling and grammar mistakes.
What Happens After You Apply for UN Jobs Online?
Many beginners want to know what happens after they complete how to apply for UN jobs online.
Application Screening: HR staff will check if you meet the basic requirements.
Shortlisting: If you are good for the job, they will put you on the shortlist.
Tests or Assessments: Some positions require a written test.
Interview: Usually online or by phone.
Selection: If you pass, they will offer you the job.
Read Als: 10 Things to remove from your CV What to Include Instead
Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Apply for UN Jobs Online
Avoid these mistakes when learning how to apply for UN jobs online:
- Incomplete PHP Form: Fill every part of the form.
- Wrong or Old Information: Use your latest details.
- No Cover Letter: Always write a cover letter.
- Not Reading Job Descriptions Well: This leads to applying for jobs you are not qualified for.
- Missing Deadlines: Always apply before the closing date.
By avoiding these mistakes, your chance of success in how to apply for UN jobs online will improve.
Conclusion
Learning how to apply for UN jobs online can look difficult at first. But now you have read this full guide, you should feel more confident and ready to try. Always remember:
- Start by creating a UN account.
- Search carefully for jobs that match your skills.
- Prepare your PHP, cover letter, and other documents well.
- Apply before the deadline.
- Wait patiently for results.
The process may take some time, but with care and effort, you can succeed. Working at the UN can be a life-changing experience. Keep trying and improving your application until you get the job you dream of.
Good luck with your journey of learning how to apply for UN jobs online!
Self Assessment
- What is the first step to learning how to apply for UN jobs online?
- Why is the Personal History Profile important in the application process?
- List two mistakes to avoid when applying for UN jobs online.
- What should you always include with your application?
- What happens after you submit your UN job application?
References
UN Careers Portal: https://careers.un.org
UN Job Application Guide: https://careers.un.org/lbw/home.aspx?viewtype=AYI
UN Volunteer Portal: https://www.unv.org

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