UN Young Professionals Program: What you need to know

For many young professionals, working at one of the world’s most prestigious development organizations might feel like a pipe dream. But the United Nations Young Professionals Program, which is now accepting applications, might just be the launch pad they need for an exciting and rewarding career in international development. Known until 2010 as the National Competitive Recruitment Examination, YPP gives new talent the chance to join the U.N. system as international civil servants working across a variety of exciting fields and specializations or job families. Under this recruitment initiative, applicants are screened for eligibility, then given an entrance exam. The first part is composed of a written test designed to measure the applicant’s drafting abilities, awareness of international affairs, analytical skills and substantive knowledge in the area of the position applied for. If the candidate makes it through the written test, he or she is invited to take part in the oral portion of the examination — a competency-based interview that gives the organization a clearer picture of their skills and attributes directly related to job performance. While passing does not automatically guarantee an applicant a job, the probability of being offered one is very high. A small number of candidates who pass but do not match immediate vacancies are placed on a reserve list, and are considered for posts as they become available. Who is eligible to apply? Interested applicants to the YPP must meet these criteria: ● Be 32 years or younger (by the end of the exam year). ● Hold at least a first-level university degree, such as a bachelor’s or other undergraduate degree, in one of the job families offered for that year. ● Be fluent in either English or French, the two working languages of the U.N. Secretariat (knowledge of other official U.N. languages is an asset). ● Be a national of a participating country. The list of participating countries is published annually and varies from year to year. The purpose of this policy is to recruit nationals of countries currently underrepresented in the U.N. Secretariat. What types of positions are available? YPP is open to applicants with different backgrounds and skill sets. Each job listing falls under a specific job family, which is part of a larger job network. While the application process runs until Aug. 23, 2015, each job family has a specific window for accepting applications: ● Administration: May 20 to July 19 ● Finance: May 27 to July 26 ● Statistics: June 3 to Aug. 2 ● Public Information: June 10 to Aug. 9 ● Social Affairs: June 17 to Aug. 16 ● Legal Affairs: June 24 to Aug. 23 Qualified applicants will take the written test on Dec. 15, 2015. How to apply? Interested young professionals can begin the application process by registering here. All requirements — profile, application form and cover letter — are prepared and submitted through the website. Note that an applicant can create and submit only one application, and those who apply under multiple job families will be disqualified. Looking to make a career move? Visit our career center for expert advice on how to navigate your job search - all you need is a Devex Career Account to get started.