Apply for the WHO Internship Programme 2026 and gain hands-on experience in global public health, administration, communications, and international development. Opportunities are available for students and recent graduates worldwide, with living allowances and insurance support.
Overview
The World Health Organization (WHO) Internship Programme provides students and recent graduates with a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in one of the world’s leading public health organizations.
Designed to develop future leaders in global health, the programme allows interns to contribute to WHO’s technical and administrative work while gaining valuable exposure to international health systems, policymaking, and development initiatives.
Internships are available across WHO headquarters, regional offices, and country offices around the world.
Programme Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | World Health Organization (WHO) |
| Programme | WHO Internship Programme 2026 |
| Duration | 6 to 24 Weeks |
| Location | Global |
| Eligible Applicants | Students & Recent Graduates |
| Financial Support | Living Allowance Available |
| Insurance | Medical & Accident Insurance Provided |
| Application Method | WHO Careers Portal |
About the WHO Internship Programme
The WHO Internship Programme aims to strengthen the global health workforce by providing students and graduates with practical learning opportunities in public health and related fields.
The programme helps participants:
- Gain professional experience
- Develop technical skills
- Understand international health systems
- Learn how global health organizations operate
- Contribute to public health initiatives worldwide
WHO also benefits from the fresh perspectives, knowledge, and skills that interns bring to the organization.
Programme Objectives
The internship programme seeks to:
Enhance Learning Opportunities
Provide students with meaningful assignments that complement their academic studies.
Build Global Health Capacity
Support the development of future public health professionals and leaders.
Promote Diversity
Engage talented individuals from different countries, cultures, and academic backgrounds.
Support WHO Programmes
Allow WHO departments to benefit from the expertise and innovation of emerging professionals.
Internship Areas
WHO offers internships across both technical and administrative functions.
Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Disease prevention
- Health systems
- Health policy
- Global health research
Medical and Social Sciences
- Public health
- Community health
- Health promotion
- Social development
Communications
- Digital communications
- Media relations
- Content creation
- Public information
Human Resources
- Recruitment support
- Talent management
- Learning and development
External Relations
- Partnerships
- Stakeholder engagement
- International cooperation
Administration and Management
- Project management
- Operations support
- Programme coordination
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Age Requirement
Applicants must be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
Educational Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or postgraduate programme, or
- Have completed a qualification within the previous six months
In addition, candidates must have completed at least three years of full-time university study before starting the internship.
Eligible fields include:
- Public Health
- Medicine
- Social Sciences
- Management
- Administration
- Communications
- International Relations
- Related disciplines
Language Requirements
Applicants must be fluent in at least one working language used by the office where the internship is based.
Knowledge of additional languages can be an advantage during the selection process.
Nationality Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a valid passport from a WHO Member State
Additional Eligibility Conditions
Applicants must:
- Not have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme
- Not be closely related to a WHO staff member
- Be able to work full-time during the internship period
Benefits of the WHO Internship Programme
Living Allowance
WHO provides a living allowance to eligible interns who require financial support.
Eligibility is assessed through a Declaration of Interests process.
Medical and Accident Insurance
WHO provides:
- Medical insurance coverage
- Accident insurance coverage
for the duration of the internship.
Professional Development
Participants gain:
- International work experience
- Exposure to global health programmes
- Professional mentoring
- Networking opportunities
Career Advancement
The internship helps participants build skills and experience that are valuable for careers in:
- Public health
- International development
- Research
- Humanitarian work
- United Nations organizations
Internship Duration
Internships typically last:
- Minimum: 6 weeks
- Maximum: 24 weeks
Duration depends on the needs of the WHO department hosting the intern.
Application Process
All applications must be submitted through the official WHO recruitment system.
WHO only accepts internship applications through vacancy notices posted on the WHO Careers platform.
Internship opportunities are published throughout the year across various locations and departments.
Because vacancies are posted continuously, applicants are encouraged to check the careers portal regularly.
Important Update
According to WHO’s internship information page, the WHO Internship Programme is currently on hold across WHO offices until further notice.
Prospective applicants should continue monitoring official WHO recruitment channels for updates regarding future internship openings.
Required Documents
Successful candidates may be asked to provide:
- Proof of enrolment or graduation
- Medical fitness certificate
- Declaration of Interests form
- Additional supporting documents requested by WHO
Applicants should not send documents unless specifically requested.
Why Apply?
The WHO Internship Programme is one of the most respected international internship opportunities available to students and recent graduates interested in global health.
Participants gain practical experience working alongside experts who are shaping international health policies and programmes while contributing to efforts that improve health outcomes worldwide.
Conclusion
The WHO Internship Programme 2026 offers a valuable pathway for students and recent graduates seeking careers in global health, public policy, communications, administration, and international development.
With professional mentoring, insurance coverage, living allowances for eligible participants, and exposure to WHO’s global operations, the programme provides an outstanding opportunity to gain experience within the United Nations system and contribute to advancing public health worldwide.
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