WHO Internship Programme
The WHO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain insight into the technical and administrative work of the World Health Organization. Internships are available globally across headquarters, regional offices, and country offices.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
SwitzerlandAbout the WHO Internship Programme
The WHO Internship Programme is designed to build a diverse pool of future public health leaders by providing students and recent graduates with hands-on experience in the technical and administrative functions of the organization. Interns contribute to various WHO programmes while gaining exposure to the systems and processes that drive global health goals.
Opportunities are available in a wide range of fields, including public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications, and external relations. Interns work within a framework that emphasizes capacity building, allowing them to apply their academic background to real-world health challenges.
Positions are located across the entire WHO system, including the headquarters in Geneva, various regional offices, and country offices worldwide. Because the organization operates globally, interns gain a unique perspective on how stakeholders interact within the international health arena.
The programme is highly competitive, and only a small number of applicants are selected each year. Interns do not hold the status of WHO staff members and are not considered representatives of the organization in any official capacity.
As of January 2020, WHO provides a living allowance to eligible selected interns who demonstrate a need for financial support. Eligibility for this support is assessed based on a mandatory Declaration of Interests form submitted by the candidate.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Gain direct experience within the leading global public health organization
Work in a diverse, international environment across various global locations
Contribute to technical and administrative programmes that impact global health
Access capacity building opportunities tailored to your academic background
Network with professionals and experts in the field of international health
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in Switzerland
While WHO provides a living allowance to eligible interns, the cost of living in Geneva is high and finding accommodation can be challenging.
Eligibility Requirements
8 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Monitor the WHO Careers site for internship vacancy notices
Create an online profile using the Stellis recruitment system
Submit an application for a specific internship vacancy
Complete the mandatory Declaration of Interests form if requested
Wait for contact from the organization (only successful candidates are contacted)
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the internship page regularly as opportunities are posted on a continuous basis
Ensure your profile on the Stellis system is complete and accurate
Research the specific technical unit you are applying to for a better fit
Use the job alert feature in Stellis to receive notifications for new openings
Be aware that living in Geneva is expensive and plan your finances accordingly
Do not send any documents until you are specifically asked to do so
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
As of January 2020, WHO provides a living allowance to eligible selected interns who demonstrate financial need based on a Declaration of Interests form.
Yes, you may apply if you have completed your qualification within the last 18 months.
All applications must be submitted through the WHO Careers site using the Stellis online recruitment system.
Internships last for a minimum of six weeks and a maximum of 24 weeks, depending on the needs of the technical unit.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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