The UN Secretariat offers competitive examinations for language positions (translators, editors, verbatim reporters, interpreters, proofreaders, etc.) on a regular basis. Examinations are required for full-time career positions only. Other language examinations may also be offered based on the needs of the Organization. Check the UN Web page for the examinations currently offered.

The United Nations has language services for all 6 official languages, which are Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian and Spanish. Language examinations are held only when the previous roster of candidates has been exhausted or is about to be exhausted and there is a foreseeable need for new recruitments.

The frequency of language examinations depends on the length of the previous roster and the number of vacancies expected in the relevant service. Some language examinations are held every year or so as there are many projected vacancies; others are held at longer intervals.The UN does not accept applications before the application period is open. Language posts are not subject to geographical distribution, so candidates of any nationality recognized by the United Nations can apply for these examinations.

Language positions exist in all the main duty stations and in the headquarters of the regional commissions: New York, Geneva, Vienna, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Bangkok, Beirut and Santiago de Chile.  Please also check the following link: http://www.un.org/Depts/OHRM/examin/exam.htm