WHO Internship Programme
The WHO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates opportunities to gain insight into the technical and administrative work of the World Health Organization. Internships are available at headquarters, regional offices, and country offices worldwide.
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 exposure to the systems, processes, and technical work of the World Health Organization. Interns contribute to various technical and administrative areas, including communication, external relations, and human resources.
The programme provides a framework for interns to apply their educational background to WHO programmes, while allowing the organization to benefit from the specialized skills of students. Interns gain practical experience in the international health arena and contribute to the advancement of global public health goals.
Internship positions are available across different organizational locations, including WHO headquarters in Geneva, regional offices, and country offices. Opportunities are posted on a continuous basis, and each vacancy notice contains specific requirements and application deadlines.
Interns do not have the status of WHO staff members and do not represent the organization in any official capacity. The programme is highly competitive, and only a small number of applicants are selected each year.
WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED). Professional certificates not listed in the WHED may require individual review.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Gain direct insight into the technical and administrative operations of a leading global health organization
Contribute to the advancement of global public health goals
Work in a diverse, international environment across various global locations
Build professional networks within the public health sector
Enhance knowledge through capacity building opportunities
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in Switzerland
Internships at WHO headquarters are located in Geneva, Switzerland, where the cost of living is high.
Eligibility Requirements
7 requirements
Documents Checklist
3 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Monitor the WHO Careers site for internship vacancy notices
Create an online profile using the WHO Stellis recruitment system
Submit an application for a specific vacancy notice
Complete self-assessment questions if requested
Wait for contact from WHO (only shortlisted candidates are contacted)
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the internship page regularly as opportunities are posted on a continuous basis
Use the Stellis system to set up job alerts for new internship postings
Ensure your profile on Stellis is complete and accurate before applying
Research the specific WHO unit and its work before submitting your application
Be aware that living in Geneva is expensive and plan accordingly if applying for a headquarters position
Do not send any documents until specifically requested by the organization
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
No, all applications must be made through the internship position vacancy notices posted on the WHO Careers site using the Stellis online recruitment system.
Interns must be available to work full-time for a minimum of six weeks up to a maximum of 24 weeks.
Yes, you may qualify if you apply to the internship within 18 months following the completion of your formal qualification.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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