UNUnknownPolicy & Governance

Preparation Guide

Advocacy, Reporting and Data Intern (IN) — UN

14 days until deadline (29 May 2026)

Expected Timeline

Based on the position grade (IN), contract type (Other), and UN's typical recruitment process.

Apply14d left
Screening2-4 weeks
Assessment2-4 weeks
References1-2 weeks
Offer2-4 weeks
Estimated total process: 2-4 months

Note: UN recruitment timelines vary significantly. Some positions may take longer due to roster reviews, budget approvals, or geographic representation considerations.

Assessment Predictor

Based on the grade level, contract type, and position profile, expect the following evaluations:

Written TestCompetency-Based InterviewTechnical InterviewPresentation / Case StudyLanguage Assessment
Competency-Based Interview (CBI)

The UN uses the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare 2-3 concrete examples for each competency listed below. Focus on recent professional experiences (last 5 years).

Written Assessment

Typically a timed exercise (1-2 hours) testing analytical writing, policy analysis, or technical knowledge relevant to the role. Practice writing concise, structured responses under time pressure.

Presentation / Case Study

Senior positions often require a presentation on a relevant topic or a case study analysis. Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation with clear structure: context → analysis → recommendations.

Competency Breakdown

These competencies were extracted from the vacancy announcement. Prepare STAR-format examples for each.

CoreIntegrity
STAR Method Prompt:Describe a situation where you had to make an ethical decision under pressure.
FunctionalAdvocacy
FunctionalCoordination
STAR Method Prompt:Tell us about a time when you coordinated activities across multiple teams or organizations.

Required Skills & Technical Knowledge

ResearchCommunicationsSPSSExcelMicrosoft OfficeData AnalysisData ScienceDatabase ManagementLogisticsSustainable DevelopmentInformation ManagementInformation SystemsBusiness AdministrationAgenda and the Sustainable DevelopmentStakeholder Database ManagementMicrosoft Excel For Data ManagementAnalysis Is RequiredData CleaningConsolidationManaging Large Datasets Is RequiredPrepare and maintain analysis

Position Profile

GradeIN
SeniorityUnknown
Role TypePolicy & Governance
ContractOther
EducationPhD / Doctorate
Experience—
LanguagesEnglish, French
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Preparation Checklist

  • Prepare 2-3 STAR stories for each competency (3 total)
  • Research UN's latest strategic plan and priorities
  • Prepare a concise 2-minute "Tell me about yourself" response
  • Practice analytical writing under time pressure (1-2 hours)
  • Prepare a 10-15 minute presentation on a relevant topic
  • Refresh your French language skills
  • Read recent news and developments about UN
  • Prepare 3-4 questions to ask the interview panel
  • Review the UN common system values and organizational culture

Pro Tips

  • UN interviews are competency-based — they ask for specific examples, not hypothetical scenarios.
  • Use the STAR method: Situation → Task → Action → Result.
  • Show how your experience aligns with the UN values: integrity, professionalism, respect for diversity.
  • Be specific and quantify your achievements when possible.
  • Mention experience working in multicultural environments — it's highly valued.