The WHO Paid Internship 2026 offers students and recent graduates an opportunity to gain practical experience in global public health while working with the World Health Organization.
WHO internships are available across technical and administrative areas, including public health, medicine, communications, external relations and human resources.
The World Health Organization (WHO) Internship Programme is designed to give future public health professionals exposure to the technical and administrative work of the organization.
Internships may be available at WHO headquarters, regional offices and country offices. New opportunities are posted continuously, with each vacancy having its own requirements and application deadline.
Table of Contents
WHO Internship 2026 – Key Details
- Organization: World Health Organization (WHO)
- Programme: WHO Internship Programme
- Locations: WHO headquarters, regional offices and country offices
- Duration: 6 to 24 weeks
- Work schedule: Full-time
- Fields: Public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications and external relations
- Living allowance: Available to eligible selected interns who require financial support
- Insurance: Medical and accident insurance during the internship
- Application system: WHO online recruitment system (Stellis)
The exact living allowance is stated in individual internship vacancy notices. The supplied WHO programme page does not establish a universal monthly amount of US$2,200, so applicants should check the specific vacancy before relying on that figure.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the WHO’s general internship eligibility requirements.
Age
Applicants must be at least 20 years old on the date of application.
Education
Applicants must either:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate or postgraduate programme in a relevant field; or
- Have completed a qualification and apply within 18 months of completing it.
Applicants must have completed at least three years of full-time university-level study before beginning the internship.
Relevant areas include public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications and external relations.
Other Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Be fluent in at least one working language of the assignment office.
- Hold a valid passport from a WHO Member State.
- Not be related to a WHO staff member.
- Not have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme.
Internship Benefits
Eligible selected interns who require financial support may receive a WHO living allowance.
WHO also provides:
- Medical insurance.
- Accident insurance.
- Possible lunch vouchers at some duty stations.
For Geneva internships, WHO notes that living costs can be high and accommodation can be difficult to secure.
Internship Duration
WHO internships require interns to work full-time for a minimum of six weeks and a maximum of 24 weeks, depending on the requirements of the relevant technical unit.
Interns must provide proof of enrolment or proof of completion of their latest qualification and complete the required medical and declaration-of-interest documentation when requested.
How to Apply for WHO Internships
Applications must be submitted through individual internship vacancy announcements on the WHO Careers website using the Stellis online recruitment system.
WHO does not accept internship applications outside the Stellis system.
Because internship vacancies are posted continuously, applicants should regularly check the WHO internship listings for new opportunities, requirements and deadlines.
Official application: https://careers.who.int/careersection/intern/jobsearch.ftl?lang=en
Applicant Tips
Before applying, make sure you:
- Meet the age and education requirements.
- Have completed at least three years of university study.
- Check the specific vacancy for its required field and working language.
- Review the exact living allowance stated in the vacancy notice.
- Prepare your application through Stellis.
- Check the closing date carefully because each internship has its own deadline.
WHO states that internships are competitive and only a limited number of applicants are selected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the WHO Internship paid?
WHO provides a living allowance to eligible selected interns who need financial support. The exact amount depends on the individual vacancy.
Can recent graduates apply?
Yes. Applicants who have completed a qualification may be considered if they apply within 18 months of completing it.
How long does a WHO internship last?
Internships last from six weeks to 24 weeks, depending on the needs of the WHO technical unit.
Can students from different academic backgrounds apply?
Yes. WHO offers internships in technical and administrative areas, including public health, medicine, social sciences, management, communications and external relations.
Where are WHO internships available?
Internships can be available at WHO headquarters, regional offices and country offices.
Do WHO interns receive insurance?
Yes. WHO provides medical and accident insurance coverage during the internship period.
Where do I apply?
Applications must be submitted through the WHO online recruitment system, Stellis, using individual internship vacancy announcements.
Stay Updated With New Opportunities
For new scholarships, internships, jobs and other international opportunities, follow the Flex Jobs Space updates and check the official WHO vacancy listings regularly.
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