The WHO Internship 2026 in Switzerland offers students and recent graduates the chance to work with the Surveillance, Monitoring and Reporting team at the World Health Organization in Geneva. The internship focuses on the WHO NCD Country Capacity Survey, supporting data collection, validation, and analysis to strengthen noncommunicable disease surveillance globally.
The World Health Organization is the leading global health agency, committed to promoting health, preventing disease, and improving care. Its Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health department drives progress on NCDs through technical support, monitoring, and partnerships. This internship provides direct exposure to WHO’s global health operations and capacity-building efforts.
WHO Internship Benefits
- Monthly living allowance
- Up to CHF 1,680 per month for interns residing outside Geneva
- Up to CHF 739 per month for Geneva-based residents
- Daily lunch vouchers worth CHF 20 per working day
- Full accident insurance
- Comprehensive medical insurance
- International work experience at WHO Headquarters
- Networking opportunities with global public health experts
- Professional development through practical project work
WHO Internship Eligibility Criteria
- Completed at least three years of full-time university studies in public health, epidemiology, global health, health policy, data science, statistics, or a related field.
- Currently enrolled in a course of study leading to a formal qualification, or graduated within 18 months before the internship start date.
- Demonstrated skills in teamwork, effective communication, producing quality results, and working collaboratively.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint; knowledge of statistical software (R, STATA) is an advantage.
- Experience in research, data collection, report drafting, or noncommunicable disease surveillance.
- Expert knowledge of English
- Qualifications from institutions accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).
How to apply?
- Interested candidates should submit their applications through the official WHO Careers Portal before 21 August 2026.
- Applications for WHO internships attract candidates from around the world, early submission is strongly recommended.
- For complete eligibility requirements and to apply, visit the official WHO careers website on the button below.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the WHO Internship 2026 in Switzerland. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the duration of the WHO Internship 2026?
The internship lasts 24 weeks, starting on 2 November 2026 and ending on 16 April 2027. It is a full-time commitment based at WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland.
How much is the living allowance for this internship?
Interns whose permanent residence is outside Geneva receive up to 1680 CHF per month, while those residing in Geneva receive up to 739 CHF. The exact amount is determined after selection based on a financial disclosure form. Additionally, all interns receive 20 CHF per working day in meal vouchers.
What kind of insurance does WHO provide?
WHO provides accident and medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship. Interns are not responsible for arranging their own health insurance, but they should note that WHO’s insurance is limited to the internship period and location.
Who is eligible to apply for the WHO Internship 2026?
Applicants must have completed at least three years of full-time university studies in a relevant field and be enrolled in a degree program, or have graduated within eighteen months prior to the start date. English fluency is essential, and relevant experience in public health or data work is required.
What are the language requirements?
Expert knowledge of English is mandatory. Intermediate knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish) is an advantage but not required.
What tasks will the intern perform?
The intern will support the NCD Country Capacity Survey, including tracking responses, validating submissions, reviewing policy documents, performing data management, preparing reports, and contributing to communication materials. They will also participate in team meetings and help maintain documentation systems.
Is there a deadline to apply?
Yes, the closing date for applications is 21 August 2026 at 11:59 PM Geneva time. Late submissions will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
How competitive is the WHO Internship?
Internships at WHO are highly competitive, with only a small number of applicants accepted each year. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted after the selection process.
Do I need to submit health documents?
Yes, if selected, you will be required to provide a certified WHO medical certificate of fitness for work, proof of enrolment or graduation, and vaccination records. WHO also verifies background information as part of the hiring process.
Can I apply if I am not enrolled in a university?
You may apply if you graduated within eighteen months before the internship start date. However, you must have completed at least three years of university study before graduation. Current students must be enrolled in a course leading to a formal qualification.
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