How to apply for a United Nations JPO role: expert advice to stand out
A diverse group of young professionals smiling in front of the United Nations headquarters in New York City, with the UN flag and emblem visible, representing new Junior Professional Officers starting their roles.
Applying for a Junior Professional Officer (JPOApplying for a Junior Professional Officer (JPO) role with the United Nations, whether in Geneva, Paris, New York, or other HQ duty stations, is a highly competitive but career-defining opportunity. JPOs are early-career professionals sponsored by their home governments (e.g., Austria, Germany, Japan), and selected to gain hands-on experience in multilateral work.
1. Understand the JPO programme structure
Sponsored by Member States: You apply through your national government, not directly to the UN.
Duration: Typically 2–3 years.
Eligibility: Usually under age 32 or 35 (varies), with a Master’s degree and 1–3 years of relevant experience.
Placement: Field and HQ duty stations (Geneva, Paris, NY, Nairobi, etc.)
2. Tailor your application to the UN core values and culture
core UN values to reflect:
Integrity
Professionalism
Respect for diversity
Show alignment with UN values in your CV, motivation letter, and interviews.
3. What makes a strong JPO application
Motivation letter
demonstrates real interest in multilateralism, development, human rights, sustainability, or peace.
shows what you bring to the UN, not just why you want to work there.
highlights relevant experience, even internships or voluntary work.
reflects a clear understanding of the mandate of the specific UN agency (e.g., UNDP, UNHCR, UNESCO, etc.)
CV/P11 Form
use the UN P11 format or standard JPO application form provided by your national program.
focus on impact, responsibility, and international exposure.
list languages, country experience, multicultural work environments, and SDG-relevant projects.
Experience
Even though JPOs are "junior," you're expected to already have:
1–3 years of relevant professional experience
exposure to international development, diplomacy, or humanitarian affairs
languages: English is essential, French/Spanish/Arabic is a plus, especially for Geneva/Paris roles
4. Strategic tips for a competitive ddge
know your sponsoring government's priorities
include field exposure (if any)
use quantifiable achievements
demonstrate soft and transferrable skills
understand Geneva vs Paris vs New York focus areas and differences
Would you like help with a tailored motivation letter for a JPO application? or a UN-style P11 CV review?
At United Career Coalition, our team of native English-speaking UN experts specializes in revising and fine-tuning your motivation letters, CVs, and other application documents. We tailor every detail to align with the specific role you are applying for—whether it's a JPO, internship, consultancy, or P-level post.
Our personalized writing support ensures your application is not only professionally formatted but also compelling, role-specific, and fully aligned with the UN’s tone, values, and expectations.
📅 Schedule a 45-minute video consultation with a UN expert today and get one step closer to the international career you’re striving for.
👉 Learn more at the United Career Colaition https://unitedcareercoalition.org/