Application
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United Netherlands looks for a diverse group of students from all academic fields, ranging from physics to history and everything in between. The only mandatory requirement for joining the Delegation is enrollment in a Dutch research University (as a regular or exchange student) for the duration of the program. The core characteristics we look for in applicants are ambition, drive and the ability to think and reflect critically on oneself and others.
Are you ready for a new challenge alongside your studies? To learn about yourself and from others? And to make unforgettable memories in the close-knit Delegation? Then don’t look any further: Applications for the Delegation 2024-2025 are currently open until May 6th 2024, 23:59
Who are we looking for?
We seek a Delegation of approximately thirty highly driven, talented, and diverse students. Before you apply, please make sure the following applies to you:
- You are willing and able to dedicate 2 – 2.5 days a week to United Netherlands
- You have sufficient command of the English language
- You combine ambition with ideals
- You are registered at a Dutch (research) University for a Bachelor or Master during the academic year that you are applying for the Delegation (please note that this includes exchange students and excludes Higher Applied Education (HBO) and pre-master students)
- You are available every Friday from September onwards until the Harvard Nation Model United Nations Conference (Mid-February)
- You are willing and able to pay the Participation Fee and other expenditures*
* Please find a complete overview of all costs here.
What do we expect from you?
“By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” – Benjamin Franklin
Being a Delegate comes with certain responsibilities. To be able to graduate from the Delegation, we need Delegates who are committed, participate actively, and are willing to work hard.
We require you to invest both time and effort to make the most out of the Delegation, for yourself and your fellow delegates. We thus expect that you can invest twelve to fifteen hours (on average) per week in the Delegation (traveling and social activities excluded). This implies that, in addition to the weekly six-hour meetings on Friday, you will need to prepare for at least six to nine hours per week. This preparation, for instance, includes (academic) readings, assignments, and research on MUN topics.
The Delegation is an intense program, which can only flourish if the entire group is committed to (helping each other) develop rapidly. Being prepared ensures that you get the most out of the program, both professionally and personally. Therefore, you may only be absent for a maximum of three Friday sessions. In special circumstances, a fourth session may be missed, yet in this case you are required to make an additional assignment. Missing more than four sessions will lead to exclusion from the Delegation.
“The challenging program of United Netherlands pushed me out of my comfort zone week after week. I learned about diplomacy and geopolitics, but most of all I learned about myself. Even though we were the COVID-delegation and had to do some parts online, it was a great experience with a group of people I will stay in touch with for the rest of my life.”
Janneke Hillenaar, Delegate 2020-2021
How does the selection work?
There are two selection rounds for the Delegation. For both selection rounds, applicants need to hand in the following files:
- CV
- Motivation letter (400 words);
- Essay about challenges faced by the UN in responding to humanitarian crises in conflict zones (750 words);
- Digital photo of yourself in which your face is clearly recognizable.
Spring Selection
In June, the first cohort of students for the Delegation is selected. The Spring Selection process consists of two rounds. The first one is an MUN simulation (requiring no prior preparation), where you can show your potential. The second round is an interview, during which we hope to get to know you on a more personal level.
Summer Selection
In August and September, the final additions to the Delegation are selected. Again, an MUN simulation (no prior preparation required) as well as an interview round are held.
Application Deadline
Applications for the 22nd Delegation for Spring Selection round are currently open!
Applications are open!
Applications for the 22nd Delegation are open until May 6th, 2024, 23.59h.
Step 1: UNMD Application Form
Fill in the online UNMD Application Form. You can also find and select the dates for the second application round here.
Step 2: Apply!
To apply for the United Netherlands Delegation, you will need to fill in the UNMD Application Form (step 1) and submit three files via email:
- Motivation and Essay Form (Word document), containing a letter of motivation and a short essay;
- A digital photo of yourself in which your face is clearly recognizable;
- Your Curriculum Vitae (in English).
Attach your Essay Form, your photo, and your CV to one e-mail message and send your application to admission@unitednetherlands.org.
Note: Please download the file Motivation and Essay Form and read it carefully. Rename all documents according to the following format:
- Last name, First name, Essay Form
- Last name, First name, Photo
- Last name, First name, CV
After having sent your documents, you will be informed about the further process of selection after the deadline has passed. At the latest, you will receive a message on your application two weeks after the deadline.