Accepting applications Partial

WHO Internship Programme 2026 (Apply Now)

Last updated Jul 22, 2026

Country

Worldwide

Level

undergraduate, masters, phd

Organization

World Health Organization (WHO)

Field

Public Health, Medicine, Social Sciences, Management, Administration, Communications, External Relations

Funding

partial

Overview

The WHO Internship Programme offers students and recent graduates worldwide an opportunity to gain practical experience with the World Health Organization. Internships are available at WHO Headquarters, regional offices, and country offices globally, covering various fields from public health to administration and communications.

Coverage

Eligible interns may receive financial support, which can include a living allowance, medical and accident insurance. Some duty stations might offer lunch vouchers or a lunch allowance. Travel support may be provided for eligible interns from least developed and middle-income countries. However, benefits vary significantly by location and specific internship vacancy. Accommodation and visa costs are the responsibility of the intern.

Eligibility

Applicants must be at least 20 years old and either currently enrolled in a bachelor's, master's, or PhD program, or have completed such a qualification within the last 18 months. A minimum of three years of full-time university study must be completed before the internship begins. Candidates need an academic background relevant to WHO's work, such as public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications, or external relations. Fluency in at least one working language of the assigned office is required. Applicants must hold a valid passport from a WHO Member State. Individuals related to WHO staff members or those who have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme are not eligible.

Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet the age, education, language, and nationality criteria outlined in the eligibility section. Specific documents will be required during the application process, typically including an online profile, relevant academic records, and a motivation letter.

How to apply

Interested candidates should visit the official WHO Careers website and search for an internship vacancy that matches their qualifications and interests. The application process involves creating an account in the WHO Stellis recruitment system, completing an online profile with educational and language details, uploading required documents, and submitting a motivation letter tailored to the chosen position. Applications must be submitted before the respective vacancy's deadline. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further selection stages.

Notes

WHO internships are full-time and typically last between 6 and 24 consecutive weeks. Internship vacancies are posted throughout the year, each with its own specific application deadline. The level of financial support varies by duty station and vacancy. WHO does not provide accommodation, and interns are responsible for their visa costs. Successful completion of an internship does not guarantee future employment with WHO.

Source & Verification

Host organization: World Health Organization (WHO)

Original source: ScholarshipsCorner

Official application page: https://www.who.int/careers/internship-programme

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.