What is the UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP)?
The UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP) is a recruitment initiative by the United Nations Secretariat. It’s designed for highly qualified young professionals who want to begin a career as international civil servants. Through YPP, successful candidates go through a competitive examination process, then start working in designated areas, receiving training, mentorship, and opportunities for growth (UN Careers).
How YPP Works
- Eligibility: Applicants must be nationals of a participating Member State. Eligibility criteria often include a relevant university degree and age limits.
- Exam & Selection: The programme includes a competitive entrance exam in specific subject areas set by the UN in each cycle. Only those who pass are brought into the system.
- Post-selection: Once selected, Young Professionals begin working in UN Secretariat roles, often with mentorship, on‐the‐job training, and opportunities to advance.
Why YPP Is Worth Applying For
- It offers a pathway into a highly visible international institution.
- Candidates gain valuable experience, exposure to multilateral diplomacy, policy, human rights, sustainable development, and many other fields.
- It helps build a network of professionals, mentors, and opportunities across UN agencies.
- It tends to favour merit, qualifications, language skills, and sometimes underrepresented nationalities (United Nations).
How to Prepare
- Check eligibility early — nationality, degree, language skills.
- Monitor the UN Careers portal (especially the YPP section) for when applications are announced. Register or subscribe if possible (UN Careers).
- Prepare subject area expertise aligned with UN priorities (e.g., human rights, economics, political affairs).
- Practice for tests/exams — previous cycles often reveal the format.
- Have strong supporting documents — degrees, transcripts, language proficiency, and reference letters.
Related Programmes & Alternatives
If YPP isn’t open, or if eligibility is not met, consider alternatives:
- Junior Professional Officer (JPO) Programme at organizations like UNICEF — good hands-on experience in development (UNICEF).
- Teaching abroad, TEFL, or internships with UN agencies as stepping stones.
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Conclusion
The UN Young Professionals Programme (YPP) remains one of the most prestigious pathways for young, talented professionals to begin global public service. While there’s no confirmed open cycle right now, staying alert on the UN Careers site and preparing thoroughly will put you ahead for the next opportunity. For more global opportunities — from fellowships to grants — check out Informarius. Your journey to a global career starts with the first application!
For more information about career opportunities, check Careers & Development section of Informarius.
