IOM Internship Programme

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Aged 19 to 36. In the final year of a degree (at least a Bachelor's), enrolled in a graduate programme, or graduated within the last year before the internship starts. Working knowledge of English, French or Spanish. No nationality restriction is stated, but interns outside their own country need medical insurance with evacuation and repatriation cover.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

IOM, the UN migration agency, offers internships in Geneva and in its offices around the world. Interns work on migration management, protection, data, communications and operations. There is no fixed intake, so students apply directly to a country office or to advertised Geneva vacancies.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Aged 19 to 36. In the final year of a degree (at least a Bachelor's), enrolled in a graduate programme, or graduated within the last year before the internship starts. Working knowledge of English, French or Spanish. No nationality restriction is stated, but interns outside their own country need medical insurance with evacuation and repatriation cover.
2. Note the deadline. Open all year (IOM states there is no specific time of year to apply - send applications to the country office or watch for Geneva vacancies titled "INT") Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
4. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. "Rolling" or "varies" does not mean unlimited time. Funds are awarded as applications are reviewed, so apply early.

Quick answers

Who can apply for IOM Internship Programme?

Aged 19 to 36. In the final year of a degree (at least a Bachelor's), enrolled in a graduate programme, or graduated within the last year before the internship starts. Working knowledge of English, French or Spanish. No nationality restriction is stated, but interns outside their own country need medical insurance with evacuation and repatriation cover.

What does IOM Internship Programme cover?

A 2 to 6 month internship (preferably six, maximum nine) at IOM headquarters in Geneva or an IOM country office; most interns receive a monthly subsistence allowance, but IOM does not cover travel or visa costs

When is the deadline for IOM Internship Programme?

Open all year (IOM states there is no specific time of year to apply - send applications to the country office or watch for Geneva vacancies titled "INT") Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with IOM Internship Programme?

Host countries: Switzerland.

What documents do I need for IOM Internship Programme?

CV; Cover letter or motivation statement; Proof of current enrolment or recent graduation; Academic transcript; Passport or national ID copy; English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the IOM Internship Programme application?

Medium: CV + cover letter sent to the IOM office or applied through IOM vacancy notice