How Long Does a UN Application Stay Under Consideration?
The United Nations (UN) is one of the most sought-after employers globally, attracting thousands of applicants for every job posting. If you’ve applied for a position at the UN, you may have noticed your application status marked as “Under Consideration.” While this status indicates progress, it often leaves candidates wondering how long they must wait and what it actually means.
How Long Does a UN Application Stay Under Consideration?
This article provides clarity on the application review process at the UN, the factors influencing timelines, and what to do while your application remains under consideration.
Understanding the “Under Consideration” Status
When your UN job application is marked as “Under Consideration,” it means that your profile has successfully passed the initial screening and is being reviewed for suitability against the job requirements. This status suggests your application is being taken seriously but does not guarantee shortlisting or selection.
The timeline for this stage can vary widely depending on the nature of the role, the volume of applicants, and the recruitment team’s capacity.
Factors Affecting the Duration of Consideration
- Volume of Applications
UN job postings often receive hundreds, if not thousands, of applications. Reviewing each application thoroughly takes time, especially for popular job networks like Public Information, Human Rights, or Administration. - Role-Specific Complexity
Positions requiring specialized skills, such as language teaching or technical expertise, may involve more detailed assessments. For example, roles like Russian Language Teacher at UNECA, which involve extensive teaching experience and multilingual abilities, may require extra scrutiny to ensure candidates meet specific criteria. - Recruitment Cycle Timelines
- Short-Term Roles: Applications for temporary or consultancy positions may be processed faster, with decisions made within a few weeks.
- Permanent Positions: For full-time roles, the process can take several months due to multiple stages, including technical assessments and panel interviews.
- Internal Factors
Recruitment processes at the UN are influenced by internal deadlines, budget approvals, and hiring needs. External factors like holidays or unforeseen delays can also extend the consideration period.
What Should You Do While Waiting?
While waiting for your application status to change, here are steps to stay proactive:
1. Monitor Your Application Regularly
Log into the United Nations Careers Portal frequently to check for updates. Status changes like “Under Consideration” to “Shortlisted” or “Interview Scheduled” are typically updated on the portal.
2. Prepare for Interviews
Use the waiting period to review the job requirements, research the UN’s mission, and practice potential interview questions. Familiarize yourself with the UN Competency-Based Interview Guide to better understand the assessment process.
3. Apply for Other Roles
The UN encourages candidates to apply for multiple positions that match their skills. This increases your chances of securing a job while diversifying your opportunities.
4. Stay Informed
Keep an eye on UN recruitment trends and updates through platforms like Inspira, the official system for managing applications, to gain insights into processing times and guidelines.
How Long Is Too Long?
On average, an application may stay under consideration for 1–3 months. However, some roles may take longer due to unforeseen delays. If your status remains unchanged for over six months, it’s reasonable to assume the position may have been filled, or your application was not advanced.
You can contact the hiring department for updates if the position remains listed as vacant. However, avoid frequent follow-ups, as this can create a negative impression.
Conclusion
While there’s no definitive answer to how long an application stays under consideration, understanding the factors influencing the process can ease your anxiety. The United Nations’ thorough approach to recruitment reflects its commitment to selecting the most qualified candidates for its diverse roles.
For aspiring UN employees, patience and preparation are key. While you wait, continue enhancing your skills, applying for other roles, and staying updated with application processes. To learn more about working with the UN, visit the UN Careers Portal.
By staying proactive and informed, you’ll position yourself for success—even if the journey takes a little longer than expected.
