Learn how to prepare for UNICEF recruitment assessments, including competency-based interviews, technical tests, presentations, assessment centres and online exercises.
Background & Description
UNICEF uses different assessment methods to evaluate candidates applying for positions across the organisation. Shortlisted applicants may be required to complete one or more assessments, followed by reference checks and other recruitment procedures, depending on the position, level, area of work and hiring office.
According to UNICEF’s official careers guidance, assessments are designed to evaluate the technical knowledge, experience, behavioural competencies and other attributes required for a position.
Candidates should understand that the assessment process varies by vacancy. Not every applicant will complete the same interviews or tests.
UNICEF Assessment Techniques
UNICEF identifies several assessment methods that candidates may encounter during recruitment.
1. Blended Interview
A blended interview combines different types of questions, which may include technical, competency-based, motivational, situational and strengths-based questions.
How to prepare: Study the position requirements and prepare examples of professional experiences in which you handled relevant challenges. Make sure you understand the technical requirements of the role.
2. Technical Interview
Technical interviews assess a candidate’s expertise in the specific area required for the position.
How to prepare: Review the technical skills listed in the vacancy announcement and prepare to explain your relevant experience, knowledge and approach to work-related challenges.
3. Competency-Based Interview (CBI)
Competency-based interviews assess whether candidates demonstrate the behavioural competencies required for the role.
How to prepare: Think of examples from your professional experience that demonstrate how you have handled challenges and applied relevant competencies.
4. Presentations
Candidates may be asked to prepare and submit or deliver a presentation on a specified topic, following particular instructions.
How to prepare: Follow the instructions carefully, make the presentation engaging and informative, and keep within the allocated time.
5. Tests and Exercises
These assessments may involve questions or exercises completed within a limited time. Depending on the position, they can evaluate technical knowledge, writing ability, analytical skills, strategic thinking and leadership.
How to prepare: Practise time management and review relevant policies and procedural documents in advance.
6. Assessment Centres
Assessment centres involve a series of exercises designed to simulate situations, problems or tasks that candidates might encounter in the workplace. Assessors observe performance using a standard rating process.
How to prepare: Follow instructions carefully and remain attentive throughout the assessment, as candidates may be evaluated during the entire exercise.
7. Desk Review or Hiring Manager Review
This involves a detailed review of a candidate’s application and profile against the requirements of the vacancy.
How to prepare: Submit a clear, comprehensive and carefully prepared application that demonstrates how your qualifications and experience match the position requirements.
8. Informal Conversation
Hiring managers may speak with candidates who remain under consideration to validate information from earlier assessments and evaluate their suitability for the role, team and organisation.
How to prepare: Treat the conversation professionally, even if it is described as informal. Be ready to discuss your understanding of the position, your experience and your interest in the role.
9. Technical Assessment
Technical assessments may include verbal, numerical and logical reasoning exercises, online psychometric tests and other subject-specific evaluations.
How to prepare: Practise relevant test formats online to become familiar with the question styles, multiple-choice format and time limits.
Additional Information: UNICEF Assessment Preparation Tips
UNICEF recommends that candidates prepare well in advance and organise themselves before an assessment.
The organisation’s guidance highlights the following practical steps:
- Prepare a one-minute introduction explaining why you are a strong fit for the position.
- Set aside enough time and a suitable space to complete the assessment.
- Check your internet connection in advance if the assessment is online.
- Relax and focus on the questions being asked.
- Give complete answers to the best of your ability.
- Demonstrate interest and enthusiasm throughout the process.
Candidates should also review the vacancy announcement carefully because the relevant technical skills, competencies and assessment methods depend on the role.
Official resource: Read UNICEF’s full guidance on Get Prepared: Assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the UNICEF recruitment assessment?
It is part of UNICEF’s recruitment process for evaluating whether shortlisted candidates have the knowledge, experience, competencies and attributes required for a position.
2. What types of assessments does UNICEF use?
Possible methods include blended interviews, technical interviews, competency-based interviews, presentations, tests and exercises, assessment centres, application reviews, informal conversations and technical assessments.
3. Does every UNICEF applicant take the same assessment?
No. UNICEF explains that assessment methods vary according to the vacancy, the hiring office, the position level and the requirements of the job.
4. How should I prepare for a UNICEF competency-based interview?
Review the position’s required competencies and prepare examples from your professional experience that demonstrate relevant behaviours and skills.
5. What should I expect during a UNICEF technical interview?
Questions will focus on the technical knowledge and expertise required for the particular position.
6. Does UNICEF use online tests?
UNICEF may use tests and exercises, including online psychometric assessments and verbal, numerical or logical assessments, depending on the recruitment requirements.
7. How can I prepare for a UNICEF assessment centre?
Understand the instructions, practise relevant workplace exercises where possible and remain focused throughout the assessment because assessors observe performance across the exercises.
8. What happens after a UNICEF assessment?
Shortlisted candidates may undergo reference checks and other recruitment procedures. The exact process depends on the vacancy and hiring context.
9. Where can I find official UNICEF vacancies?
Visit the official UNICEF jobs portal to search for available positions and review their individual requirements.
Opportunities Feed Assessment
Understanding UNICEF’s assessment methods can help applicants prepare more effectively for recruitment. The most important step is to study the specific vacancy, identify the required competencies and technical skills, and prepare relevant examples before the assessment.
This guide is based on UNICEF’s published recruitment assessment guidance and does not represent a guarantee of selection or a universal assessment format for every vacancy.
Disclaimer: Opportunities Feed shares career information for educational purposes. It is not affiliated with UNICEF and does not recruit on the organisation’s behalf. Always consult UNICEF’s official careers website for current vacancies and recruitment instructions.
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