Accepting applications Fully Funded

United Nations Volunteer Program 2026 (Fully Funded)

Last updated Apr 19, 2026

Country

Worldwide

Organization

United Nations Volunteers (UNV) / United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Field

All fields

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The United Nations Volunteer Program, run by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), invites international students worldwide to apply. This program integrates volunteerism into development activities to help achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It is one of the world's largest volunteer initiatives, constantly seeking volunteers in various professions globally. The program offers three types of volunteering: online, national (within your own country), and overseas (international).

Coverage

The program is fully funded and provides comprehensive financial benefits. These include a Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA), which is a monthly stipend covering necessities like housing, food, and local transportation. International volunteers receive a one-time Settling-in Grant to assist with relocation costs and Travel Expenses, including airfare and visas, for travel to and from the assignment. All volunteers are covered by life, health, and disability insurance. The program also offers various types of leave, including sick leave and paid yearly leave, access to learning and development resources, and a Resettlement Allowance paid at the conclusion of the assignment.

Eligibility

Ethiopian students and citizens are eligible to apply, as the program is open to international students worldwide. Volunteers from other countries serve abroad, and national volunteers work within their own nations. Online volunteering is open to anyone globally. Specific requirements vary by assignment, role, term, and contract type. For online volunteering, no particular experience is needed.

Requirements

Requirements vary depending on the specific assignment, role, term, and type of contract. Applicants are advised to review the criteria for each position they are interested in. For online volunteering, no particular experience is required.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted electronically through the official UNV website. Applicants should select either the on-site (national or international) or online volunteering option during the application process.

Notes

The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) headquarters are located in Bonn, Germany. In 2024, over 14,600 UN volunteers were stationed in approximately 170 nations worldwide. UNV maintains 60 field units and six regional offices in Amman, Bangkok, Dakar, Istanbul, Nairobi, and Panama City, along with offices in New York and Tokyo.

Source & Verification

Host organization: United Nations Volunteers (UNV) / United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)

Original source: BrightScholarship

Official application page: https://app.unv.org/?language=LAN_ENG&type=online

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.