World Health Organization (WHO) Internship
The WHO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain technical and administrative experience within the World Health Organization's global offices. Interns contribute to public health goals while developing professional skills in a diverse international environment.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Varies - confirm on official site
Country
SwitzerlandAbout the World Health Organization (WHO) Internship
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 gain insight into how stakeholders interact within the international health arena while contributing to the organization's administrative and technical programs.
Internships are available across various organizational locations, including WHO headquarters in Geneva, regional offices, and country offices. The program aims to provide a framework for assigning eligible students to WHO units where their educational background can be enhanced through capacity-building opportunities.
The program covers a wide range of fields, including public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications, and external relations. Interns work under the guidance of WHO staff to support the organization's mission of advancing global health goals.
As of January 2020, WHO provides a living allowance to eligible selected interns who demonstrate a need for financial support. The eligibility for this support is assessed based on a mandatory Declaration of Interests form submitted by the candidate.
Internships are highly competitive, and only a small number of applicants are selected each year. Successful candidates are expected to work full-time for a duration ranging from a minimum of six weeks to a maximum of 24 weeks.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Direct involvement in global public health initiatives and technical programs
Opportunity to work in a diverse, international environment at WHO headquarters or regional offices
Access to professional mentorship and capacity-building opportunities
Contribution to the advancement of global health goals and systems
Networking with professionals in the international health arena
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in Switzerland
While WHO provides a living allowance to eligible interns, living in Geneva is expensive 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 and internship vacancy notices regularly
Create an online profile using the Stellis recruitment system
Submit an application for a specific internship vacancy notice
Include a cover letter describing motivation for the role
Wait for contact from WHO (only shortlisted candidates are contacted)
Complete assessment and competency-based interview if shortlisted
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the WHO Careers portal frequently as internship opportunities are posted on a continuous basis
Ensure your profile on the Stellis system is complete and accurate before applying
Research the specific technical unit you are applying to in order to tailor your cover letter
Be prepared for a competitive selection process that may take several weeks or months
Verify that your university or institution is accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED)
Do not send documents until specifically requested by the hiring unit
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
No, all applications must be made through the internship vacancy notices posted on the WHO Careers site using the Stellis online recruitment system.
No, interns do not have the status of WHO staff members and cannot represent the organization in any official capacity.
Only successful candidates are contacted. If you are not selected, you are free to apply again to other posted internship positions if you meet the eligibility criteria.
No, WHO does not sign any agreements proposed or required by a sponsor, university, or equivalent institution.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - continuous posting. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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