The WHO Internship Programme 2026 is now accepting applications through internship vacancies posted on the official WHO Careers portal. This is a great opportunity for students and recent graduates to gain hands on experience with the World Health Organization (WHO) while working on projects that support global public health. Internship opportunities are available at WHO Headquarters, regional offices, and country offices around the world.
The World Health Organization Internship programme is open to applicants from many academic backgrounds. While WHO is best known for public health, these UN internships are also available in areas such as communications, administration, human resources, management, external relations, and other technical fields. Selected interns work with experienced professionals and learn how an international organization operates.
WHO also provides financial support for eligible interns. Depending on the internship location and individual eligibility, selected interns may receive a living allowance, medical and accident insurance, lunch vouchers at some duty stations, and travel support for certain eligible applicants. Since benefits vary by duty station, applicants should carefully read each internship vacancy before applying.
Qucik overview of the WHO Internship Programme 2026:
- Host Organization: World Health Organization (WHO)
- Programme Type: International Internship
- Internship Duration: 6 to 24 weeks
- Location: WHO Headquarters, Regional Offices, and Country Offices Worldwide
- Deadline: Varies by internship vacancy
WHO Internship Benefits:
- Eligible interns may receive a living allowance, depending on the duty station and their eligibility.
- WHO provides medical insurance during the internship.
- WHO also provides accident insurance during the internship.
- Some duty stations provide lunch vouchers or a lunch allowance.
- Some eligible interns from least developed and middle income countries may receive travel support.
- Interns gain practical experience by working with WHO programmes and learning from experienced professionals.
- Interns can request an internship certificate after successfully completing the programme.
- Interns may request a letter of recommendation from their supervisor at the end of the internship.
- Note: The living allowance, lunch support, and travel support vary by duty station and the specific internship vacancy. Applicants should check the official vacancy notice for complete details.
Also check the following United Nations Opportunities:
- UNICEF Internship Program (Paid Internships)
- UN Volunteer Program 2026: Complete Guide to Eligibility, Benefits, and Application Process
- UN Women Internship | Global Internship (Stipend Possible)
- How to Write a Resume for United Nations Jobs: Complete UN Resume Guide
Eligibility Criteria of the WHO Internship Program 2026:
- Applicants should be at least 20 years old.
- Individuals should be enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programme, or have graduated within the last 18 months.
- A minimum of three years of full-time university study should be completed before the internship begins.
- An academic background related to WHO’s work is required, such as public health, medicine, social sciences, management, administration, communications, or external relations.
- Good command of at least one working language required by the duty station is necessary.
- A valid passport from a WHO Member State is required.
- Previous participation in the WHO Internship Programme is not allowed.
- Immediate family members of WHO staff are not eligible.
How to Apply for the WHO Internship in 2026:
- Visit the official WHO Careers website and search for an internship that matches your background and interests.
- Create an account in the WHO Stellis recruitment system.
- Complete your online profile with your education, language skills, and other required information.
- Upload the required documents mentioned in the internship vacancy.
- Write a motivation letter specifically for the internship position you have selected.
- Review your application carefully and submit it before the deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates will be contacted by WHO for the next stage of the selection process.
Important Notes
- WHO internships are full-time and last between 6 and 24 consecutive weeks.
- Internship vacancies are posted throughout the year, and each vacancy has its own application deadline.
- Financial support, including the living allowance, depends on the duty station and the specific internship vacancy.
- WHO does not provide accommodation for interns.
- Visa costs are the responsibility of the selected intern.
- Only shortlisted candidates are contacted by WHO.
- Internship certificates are available upon request after successful completion of the programme.
- Former interns may apply for WHO jobs as external candidates, but completing an internship does not guarantee employment with WHO.
