WHO Internship Programme 2026 in Switzerland and Worldwide | Paid Internship for International Students

Applications are now open for the World Health Organization (WHO) Internship Programme 2026, offering outstanding opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain practical experience in global public health. Hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO), the internship program welcomes applicants from around the world to work at WHO Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, regional offices, and country offices worldwide. Interns contribute to technical and administrative projects while learning from leading global health professionals.

The WHO Internship Programme is designed to develop the next generation of global health leaders by providing meaningful professional experience in areas such as public health, medicine, research, communications, policy, administration, information technology, and international relations. Since 2020, eligible interns receive a living allowance, along with medical and accident insurance during their internship.

Internship Overview

• Host Organization: World Health Organization (WHO)
• Host Country: Switzerland and Worldwide
• Primary Duty Station: Geneva, Switzerland (with opportunities in regional and country offices)
• Programme Type: Paid International Internship
• Duration: 6 to 24 Weeks
• Eligible Applicants: International students and recent graduates
• Application Mode: Online
• Application Deadlines: Vary depending on each internship vacancy

Financial Benefits

Eligible interns may receive:

• Monthly living allowance (subject to eligibility assessment)
• Medical and accident insurance during the internship
• Lunch vouchers at selected duty stations
• Practical work experience at the United Nations’ specialized health agency
• Mentorship from WHO professionals
• International networking opportunities
• Internship completion certificate upon request

Internship Areas

Internships are available in a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Public Health
• Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Global Health
• Nursing
• Pharmacy
• Environmental Health
• Health Policy
• Data Science
• Statistics
• Economics
• Communications
• Human Resources
• Finance
• Information Technology
• International Relations
• Administration
• Law
• Procurement
• External Relations

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
• Be enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate degree program at a recognized university, or have graduated within the previous 18 months.
• Have completed at least three years of full-time university study before the internship begins (for undergraduate applicants).
• Be fluent in at least one working language of the WHO office where the internship will take place.
• Hold a valid passport of a WHO Member State.
• Not have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme.
• Not be closely related to a WHO staff member.

Internship Duration

• Minimum duration: 6 weeks
• Maximum duration: 24 weeks
• Full-time participation is required throughout the internship period.

Required Documents

Applicants generally need to prepare:

• Online application through the WHO Stellis portal
• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic information
• Language proficiency details
• Motivation statement or cover letter tailored to the specific internship
• Additional documents if requested during the recruitment process

Selection Process

WHO evaluates applicants based on:

• Academic background
• Relevant knowledge and skills
• Motivation for the internship
• Suitability for the specific technical unit
• Language proficiency
• Availability during the internship period

Only shortlisted candidates are contacted for interviews or further assessment.

Why Apply?

The WHO Internship Programme offers participants the opportunity to:

• Gain international experience in global health.
• Work alongside leading public health experts.
• Contribute to WHO’s mission of improving health worldwide.
• Develop technical and professional skills.
• Build an international professional network.
• Enhance career prospects in the United Nations system and the global health sector.

How to Apply

1. Visit the WHO Careers Portal.
2. Create a profile in the WHO Stellis recruitment system.
3. Search for internship opportunities that match your interests.
4. Complete the online application and upload the required information.
5. Submit a customized motivation letter for each internship you apply for.
6. Monitor your application status through the portal.

The WHO Internship Programme 2026 is one of the world’s most prestigious opportunities for students and recent graduates interested in public health and international development. With placements at WHO Headquarters in Geneva and offices around the globe, participants gain invaluable hands-on experience, professional mentorship, and exposure to global health policymaking. Whether your background is in medicine, public health, communications, data science, or administration, this paid internship can be a significant step toward a career with the United Nations or other international organizations.