WHO Internship 2026: Indian Students Can Apply for Paid Internship in Switzerland – Eligibility, Benefits & Application Process
Digital Desk
The internship is designed to provide young professionals with practical exposure to WHO’s technical and administrative work while helping them build careers in global public health. Selected interns will receive a living allowance (stipend) along with medical and accident insurance during the internship period.
What is the WHO Internship Programme?
The WHO Internship Programme allows students and recent graduates to work alongside international experts on global health initiatives. It aims to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world experience by involving interns in WHO's technical, research, policy, and administrative activities.
The programme also seeks to develop the next generation of leaders in global public health while benefiting from the fresh ideas and perspectives that young professionals bring.
Who Can Apply?
Candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Must be at least 20 years old.
- Must be enrolled in or recently graduated from a recognized university in fields such as:
- Public Health
- Medicine
- Social Sciences
- Management
- Administration
- Communications
- Other health-related disciplines
- Recent graduates must have completed their degree within the last 18 months.
- Students should have completed at least three years of full-time study before the internship begins.
- Must have a good command of English (knowledge of another WHO official language is an advantage).
- Must possess a valid passport.
- Applicants who have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme are not eligible to apply again.
Benefits of the Internship
Selected candidates will receive several benefits, including:
- Living allowance (stipend) to help cover daily expenses.
- Medical and accident insurance throughout the internship.
- Opportunity to work with global health experts and professionals from around the world.
- Exposure to international public health projects and policymaking.
- A valuable addition to the candidate's CV, enhancing future career prospects in international organizations, research institutions, NGOs, and public health agencies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates can apply through the official WHO Careers Portal by following these steps:
- Visit the WHO Careers website.
- Search for available Internship Position Vacancy Notices.
- Create an online profile and complete the application form.
- Upload your CV and educational details when required.
- Submit the application before the deadline mentioned in the vacancy notice.
WHO has clarified that applicants are not required to submit supporting documents at the initial stage unless specifically requested during the selection process.
Why This Opportunity Matters for Indian Students
For Indian students aspiring to build careers with the United Nations, international organizations, or the global healthcare sector, the WHO Internship Programme offers invaluable international exposure. Working at WHO provides practical experience in public health policy, research, and global healthcare initiatives while opening doors to future opportunities in international institutions.
