WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes

World Trade Organization (WTO) with China

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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

National of a least-developed or developing WTO member, or of an observer engaged in accession negotiations. No older than 30. An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (for example economics, law, political science or international relations) and at least one year of postgraduate study.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Two WTO internship programmes funded through a China partnership, open to nationals of developing and least-developed WTO members. Interns work either in the Accessions Division or in other WTO divisions for up to ten months and receive a daily allowance, airfare and a health-insurance contribution.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. National of a least-developed or developing WTO member, or of an observer engaged in accession negotiations. No older than 30. An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (for example economics, law, political science or international relations) and at least one year of postgraduate study.
2. Note the deadline. Jun – Aug (general placements: apply between 1 Jun and 31 Aug; Accessions Division placements have no opening or 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.

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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. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
5. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
6. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.

Quick answers

Who can apply for WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes?

National of a least-developed or developing WTO member, or of an observer engaged in accession negotiations. No older than 30. An undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline (for example economics, law, political science or international relations) and at least one year of postgraduate study.

What does WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes cover?

An internship of up to 10 months at the WTO in Geneva with a daily allowance of CHF 90, economy airfare to and from Geneva, and CHF 100 a month towards health insurance

When is the deadline for WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes?

Jun – Aug (general placements: apply between 1 Jun and 31 Aug; Accessions Division placements have no opening or closing date) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes?

Host countries: Switzerland.

What documents do I need for WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes?

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 WTO China Accessions and General Internship Programmes application?

High: WTO external jobs platform form + email to the division with CV and motivation letter