WHO Internship Programme
The WHO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates the opportunity to gain technical and administrative experience within the World Health Organization at headquarters, regional, or country offices.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Full / PartialDeadline
Varies - check individual vacancy notices
Country
SwitzerlandAbout the WHO Internship Programme
The World Health Organization (WHO) Internship Programme is designed to build a diverse pool of future public health leaders. It provides a framework for students and recent graduates to gain insight into the technical and administrative operations of the organization while contributing to global health goals.
Interns are assigned to various WHO programmes where they engage in capacity building and support technical or administrative work. Opportunities are available in areas such as public health, medicine, social fields, management, communications, and external relations.
Positions are located across the WHO system, including headquarters in Geneva, regional offices, and country offices. The programme is highly competitive, and the organization selects only a small number of applicants each year.
Interns do not hold the status of WHO staff members and are not permitted to represent the organization in any official capacity. The programme is intended to enrich the knowledge and experience of participants rather than serve as a formal employment pathway.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Gain direct experience in global public health technical and administrative programmes
Work within a diverse international environment across various global locations
Contribute to the advancement of public health and global health goals
Access to capacity building opportunities within a leading health organization
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
7 requirements
Documents Checklist
3 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Monitor the WHO Careers site for internship position vacancy notices
Create an online profile using the Stellis recruitment system
Submit an application for a specific vacancy notice
Include a cover letter describing motivation for applying
Wait for contact from WHO if shortlisted for screening and competency-based interviews
Application Timeline
Continuous
Application
Opportunities are posted as they become available
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the internship page regularly as opportunities are posted on a continuous basis
Ensure your profile on Stellis is accurate and complete as it forms the basis of your evaluation
Research the specific WHO unit and its work before applying to ensure a good fit
Be prepared for a competitive selection process that may take several weeks or months
Note that living in Geneva is expensive and plan accordingly if applying for headquarters
Do not send documents until specifically requested by the organization
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
4 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.
As of January 2020, WHO provides a living allowance to eligible selected interns who need financial support. Eligibility is assessed based on the Declaration of Interests form.
Internships are full-time and range from a minimum of six weeks to a maximum of 24 weeks, depending on the needs of the technical unit.
You must be enrolled in a course of study or have completed a qualification within the 18 months prior to applying.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Continuous. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
More Scholarships to Explore
Other opportunities you may qualify for
Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC)
China · China Scholarship Council
Fully funded scholarship by the China Scholarship Council - covering tuition, accommodation, stipend, and medical insurance for international students at Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels. Two application routes available: bilateral government track and direct university route.
📅Deadline: Type A (HEC Route): December-January | Typ…
Shanghai Government Scholarship (SGS)
China · Shanghai Municipal Government - administered through individual Shanghai universities
Shanghai Municipal Government scholarship for international students at 30+ top universities in Shanghai. Two funding tiers: Type A (fully funded - tuition, housing, insurance, and monthly stipend) and Type B (partial - tuition and insurance only). Available for Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD. Rolling deadlines from January to May across participating institutions.
📅Deadline: January-May (varies by university - check …
Russian Government Scholarship
Russia · Government of Russia / Ministry of Education and Science of Russia
Fully funded scholarship by the Russian Government offering thousands of seats annually for international students at federal Russian universities. No IELTS required. Covers tuition, accommodation, and monthly stipend across all major fields.
📅Deadline: January 15, 2026
Reopens: Continuous
Ready to Start Your Medical Journey?
Get expert guidance from our team and secure your spot at a top university. Free consultation - no obligation.