How Long Does UN Recruitment Take? (Timeline Explained)

One of the most frustrating parts of applying to the United Nations is the waiting.

If you’re searching for the UN recruitment process timeline, you’re probably wondering:

• Why is my application still “Under Consideration”?
• How long does UN application under consideration last?
• What do UN application status meanings actually mean?
• Why does UN recruitment take so long?

Let’s break it down.

How Long Does UN Recruitment Take?

Typical timeline:

Stage	Estimated Time
Application Deadline Closes	Day 0
Longlisting	2–6 weeks
Shortlisting	4–8 weeks
Written Test / Interview	1–2 months after deadline
Reference Checks	2–4 weeks
Final Selection & Approval	1–3 months
Offer Issued	3–6+ months total

Average total process: 3 to 6 months
Sometimes longer (especially for international roles).

Yes, it’s slow.

Why UN Recruitment Takes Long

Several structural reasons:

1. Multiple Review Layers

Applications may pass through:

• HR screening
• Hiring manager
• Panel review
• Compliance checks

2. Large Applicant Pools

Some roles receive:

• 300–1,000+ applications

3. Budget and Approval Cycles

Hiring decisions often require:

• Funding confirmation
• Senior management sign-off
• Headquarters clearance

This makes the process slower than most NGOs.

UN Hiring Process Stages

Understanding the UN hiring process stages reduces anxiety.

1. Application submitted

Status: “Applied”

No review yet.

2. Under consideration

This is the most confusing stage.

“Under Consideration” means:

• You passed initial screening
• Your application is being reviewed
• You are not rejected yet

How long UN application under consideration?

Anywhere from: 2 weeks to 3 months

If it changes quickly, you were not longlisted.

3. Longlisting

Longlist means Qualified candidates.

Not yet shortlisted.

This phase filters for:

• Minimum education
• Required years of experience
• Language requirements

4. Shortlisting

Now competition narrows significantly.

Usually: 5 to 10 candidates remain.

You may receive:

• Written test invitation
• Interview invitation

For preparation, read: UN Competency-Based Interview Questions

5. Interview and Assessment

Most UN interviews are:

• Panel-based
• Competency-focused
• Structured scoring

The UN often uses behavioral questions.

6. Reference Checks

If references are contacted, that’s a strong sign.

It does NOT guarantee selection, but it means you are a top candidate.

7. Final Review and Offer

Even after selection, approvals may take weeks.

Especially for:

• International P-level roles
• Field missions
• Hardship duty stations

UN Field Jobs vs Headquarters Jobs

UN Application Status Meanings

Here’s what common statuses mean:

Status	Meaning
Applied	Received but not screened
Under Consideration	Passed initial screening
Shortlisted	Advanced to next stage
Rostered	Placed in candidate pool
Not Selected	Process concluded

If you see “Not Selected,” the recruitment is closed.

For improving future applications, read:
How to Tailor Your CV for UN Jobs in Africa

Does Timeline Differ by Role Type?

Yes.

National Officer roles

Usually faster (2–4 months).

• See UN National Officer Jobs in Africa

Consultancy Roles

Often quicker (1–3 months).

• See UN Consultant Jobs in Africa)

International P-Level roles

Can take 6+ months.

More approvals required.

Why Some Applications Stay “Under Consideration” for Months

Common reasons:

• Position frozen
• Budget reallocated
• Internal candidate prioritized
• Hiring manager delayed

Sometimes the vacancy remains open in the system even after decision is made.

This is normal in large bureaucratic systems.

What You Should Do While Waiting

Do NOT:

• Wait for one application outcome
• Stop applying
• Assume silence means rejection

Instead:

• Apply to 5–10 relevant roles
• Track deadlines
• Prepare interview stories
• Continue skill development

Realistic Expectation Setting

UN recruitment is not fast.

It is structured, competitive and multi-layered.

If you apply in January, you may hear back in April or June.

Patience and consistency matter.

Conclusion

Average: 3–6 months

Can be shorter for consultancy roles.
Can be longer for international positions.

The delay is often structural, not personal.

If you understand the timeline, you can manage your expectations and strategy better.