WTO Internship Programme

World Trade Organization (WTO)

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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 WTO member state or of a country or customs territory negotiating accession. Aged 21 or over. Completed undergraduate studies in a relevant discipline, and either enrolled in a master's with at least one year completed, or enrolled in higher postgraduate study after a master's, or holding a master's or PhD obtained in the last two years.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

The WTO takes interns for up to six months in its Geneva secretariat. Applicants register on the WTO external jobs platform, and divisions choose interns from the roster as needs arise. Applications stay valid for one year.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. National of a WTO member state or of a country or customs territory negotiating accession. Aged 21 or over. Completed undergraduate studies in a relevant discipline, and either enrolled in a master's with at least one year completed, or enrolled in higher postgraduate study after a master's, or holding a master's or PhD obtained in the last two years.
2. Note the deadline. Open all year (intake is ongoing with no set recruitment period; applications stay on the WTO roster for one year) 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. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
4. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
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 WTO Internship Programme?

National of a WTO member state or of a country or customs territory negotiating accession. Aged 21 or over. Completed undergraduate studies in a relevant discipline, and either enrolled in a master's with at least one year completed, or enrolled in higher postgraduate study after a master's, or holding a master's or PhD obtained in the last two years.

What does WTO Internship Programme cover?

An internship of up to six months at the WTO in Geneva with a daily allowance of CHF 60 (weekends and holidays included); the WTO does not pay travel to or from Geneva

When is the deadline for WTO Internship Programme?

Open all year (intake is ongoing with no set recruitment period; applications stay on the WTO roster for one year) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with WTO Internship Programme?

Host countries: Switzerland.

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

Medium: WTO external jobs platform application + CV + degree details