WHO Internship Programme

World Health Organization (WHO)

♡ Save

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

Who can apply

At least 20 years old; enrolled in a university course leading to a qualification (or graduated within 18 months) after completing at least three years of full-time study; holder of a valid passport of a WHO Member State; not related to a WHO staff member and not a previous WHO intern. Fluency in a working language of the duty station.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The WHO Internship Programme places students and recent graduates in technical units at headquarters in Geneva, regional offices and country offices for 6 to 24 weeks. All applications go through internship vacancy notices on the WHO careers site; applications outside that system are not accepted.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. At least 20 years old; enrolled in a university course leading to a qualification (or graduated within 18 months) after completing at least three years of full-time study; holder of a valid passport of a WHO Member State; not related to a WHO staff member and not a previous WHO intern. Fluency in a working language of the duty station.
2. Note the deadline. Open all year (WHO posts internship vacancy notices on a rolling basis - apply to each notice by its closing date) 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.

Browse all free materials →

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 WHO Internship Programme?

At least 20 years old; enrolled in a university course leading to a qualification (or graduated within 18 months) after completing at least three years of full-time study; holder of a valid passport of a WHO Member State; not related to a WHO staff member and not a previous WHO intern. Fluency in a working language of the duty station.

What does WHO Internship Programme cover?

A 6 to 24 week full-time internship at WHO headquarters or a regional or country office; WHO provides medical and accident insurance and a living allowance for selected interns who need financial support (amount shown in each vacancy notice)

When is the deadline for WHO Internship Programme?

Open all year (WHO posts internship vacancy notices on a rolling basis - apply to each notice by its closing date) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with WHO Internship Programme?

Host countries: Switzerland.

What documents do I need for WHO 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 WHO Internship Programme application?

Medium: WHO Careers (Stellis) online application for each internship notice