Latest Internships in USA-UK-Canada & Across Worldwide 2025
If you’re looking for an internship that actually matters, something beyond making coffee runs or organizing spreadsheets, the WHO Internship Programme might just be what you need. This isn’t just any internship. It’s a chance to work with one of the most influential health organizations in the world. Whether you’re a medical student, a public health enthusiast, or someone passionate about global health, this program gives you hands-on experience in tackling real-world health issues.
What makes this internship even better? It’s designed for students and fresh graduates who want to understand how international health policies are made, how global health crises are managed, and how real changes happen. With opportunities in various countries and remote roles available, the program is open to individuals from diverse academic backgrounds. If you’re an undergraduate, postgraduate, or even a recent graduate, this could be your gateway into the world of global health. Now, let’s break down what WHO is all about before diving into the details of its internship programs.
💡 For More Government Internships: Click Here
WHO Internship 2025: Application Process & Eligibility
Overview of the World Health Organization (WHO)
When it comes to global health, no name is bigger than the World Health Organization. Founded in 1948, WHO is the leading authority when it comes to managing and preventing health crises, setting international medical standards, and improving public health worldwide. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of around 8,000 experts who work on everything from pandemic response to mental health initiatives. One of its biggest responsibilities is coordinating responses to global health emergencies. WHO played a major role in managing the COVID-19 pandemic, providing countries with guidelines, research, and medical supplies.
Beyond crisis management, it also focuses on vaccination programs, disease eradication efforts, and healthcare accessibility, making sure even the most remote parts of the world get the medical attention they need. Also, the WHO doesn’t work alone. It partners with governments, NGOs, universities, and research institutions to improve healthcare systems, fight infectious diseases, and promote healthier lifestyles worldwide. If you’ve ever heard of global efforts to combat malaria, HIV/AIDS, or polio, chances are WHO was leading the charge. That’s why an internship with WHO is such a huge deal—it’s a chance to be part of something that genuinely changes lives.
WHO Summer Internship Programme
For students who want to make the most of their summer, the WHO Summer Internship Programme is a golden opportunity. It’s a short-term but highly intensive experience that gives students and recent graduates a deep dive into public health, international health policies, and the behind-the-scenes operations of WHO. The best part? It’s open to individuals from various academic backgrounds, whether you’re studying medicine, public health, policy, international relations, environmental science, or even communications. The summer internship typically lasts between six and twelve weeks, making it a great fit for students looking to gain real-world experience without taking a gap year. While WHO internships are mostly unpaid, some opportunities offer financial assistance, travel coverage, or stipends, depending on funding available.
Moving on, interns are given hands-on tasks, ranging from research and policy analysis to communications and fieldwork, depending on the department they join. Eligibility is pretty straightforward. You must be at least twenty years old, currently enrolled in a university program (or a recent graduate), and have proficiency in at least one of WHO’s official languages, like English, French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, or Chinese. If you’re an international student, this program is still an option for you, as WHO actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. Additionally, one of the biggest perks of the WHO Summer Internship is the exposure you get. Interns don’t just assist; they attend high-profile meetings, work on public health projects, and network with professionals who have years of experience in the field. It’s a perfect opportunity to build skills, gain global health knowledge, and make meaningful connections.
Public Health Internships for Undergraduates
Public health is one of the most impactful fields, and if you’re an undergraduate studying it, interning at WHO can be a game-changer. This isn’t just about padding your resume. It’s about working on real-world public health initiatives that have a direct impact on communities worldwide.
WHO is at the forefront of tackling global health challenges, from infectious disease outbreaks to mental health awareness. Interning here gives students a chance to apply what they’ve learned in class to actual global health projects. Whether it’s researching public health policies or assisting with health education programs, WHO interns get firsthand experience of large-scale health initiatives.
Skills Gained from Working with WHO
Interning in a public health role at WHO can help students develop:
- Research and analytical skills.
- A deeper understanding of epidemiology and disease control.
- Experience in health policy development.
- Communication skills for public health advocacy.
How It Enhances Career Prospects
A public health internship at WHO can open doors to future jobs in government health agencies, international NGOs, research institutions, and even academia. Many WHO interns go on to work for organizations like UNICEF, the CDC, or the World Bank, making this an excellent stepping stone to a global health career.
Global Health Internships for Undergraduates
If public health is about communities, global health is about the bigger picture, like how different health issues affect populations across countries. WHO’s global health internships focus on large-scale health policies, pandemic response, and international healthcare systems. These internships typically revolve around health diplomacy, disease surveillance, and policy-making. Instead of working on localized health issues, interns in global health programs deal with topics like:
- The impact of climate change on health.
- Vaccine distribution strategies.
- Health systems strengthening in developing countries.
Difference Between Public Health and Global Health Roles at WHO
Public health roles focus on local and national health initiatives, while global health interns work on international policies and cross-border health challenges. If you’re more interested in international relations and policy-making, a global health internship is a good fit. Some of the best WHO divisions for global health internships include:
- The Health Policy and Governance Department focuses on international health policies.
- The Emergency Response & Preparedness Team deals with global disease outbreaks and crises.
- The Health Promotion Department (works on worldwide health education initiatives).
For students passionate about international health diplomacy, this internship provides the perfect mix of policy exposure and hands-on experience.
Internship Programmes for Undergraduates at WHO
WHO has several internship programs tailored specifically for undergraduates, making it easier for students to get involved even if they don’t have a postgraduate degree. While most WHO internships are open to both undergraduates and postgraduates, some positions prefer master’s students due to the level of expertise required. However, there are plenty of undergraduate-friendly roles in areas like communications, data analysis, and public health research.
Countries Where WHO Offers Undergrad Internships
WHO operates in 150+ countries, and while most internships are based at its Geneva headquarters, there are opportunities in regional offices across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Some popular locations include:
- WHO Western Pacific Regional Office (Philippines)
- WHO Regional Office for Africa (Republic of Congo)
- WHO Southeast Asia Regional Office (India)
- WHO Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) (Washington D.C., USA)
Many regional offices offer remote internship options, making it possible for students to participate from anywhere in the world.
Types of WHO Internships
Internships at WHO aren’t just a one-size-fits-all deal. Depending on your background and career goals, there are several specialized internship categories you can apply for. Whether you’re into research, policy-making, or direct medical work, there’s something for everyone. Let’s break down the top internships here so you can figure out which one suits you best.
Research and Data Analysis Internship
If numbers, trends, and statistics excite you, this internship is a great way to get involved in global health research. WHO collects massive amounts of health data from around the world, and interns in this category help analyze it to identify trends, patterns, and solutions to major health issues. Expect to work with epidemiologists, biostatisticians, and public health experts, assisting with research that could shape future health policies.
Interns in this role often use software like SPSS, R, or Python for data analysis, so having some experience with these tools can be a huge advantage. The research you contribute to could be used in WHO reports, disease prevention strategies, or even global policy recommendations. It’s perfect for students in public health, statistics, data science, or epidemiology who want to gain real-world research experience.
Public Health Policy Internship
For those more interested in how health policies are made, this internship is about shaping the future of healthcare systems. The WHO works closely with governments and health ministries worldwide, providing them with research-backed recommendations to improve public health infrastructure. Interns in this category help review policy documents, draft reports, and assess healthcare programs to ensure they align with the WHO’s global standards.
This role is ideal for students in public health, political science, international relations, or law who want to see how large-scale health decisions are made. You might even get to work on policy briefs that directly influence health initiatives in different countries. If your goal is to work for government agencies, think tanks, or international health organizations, this internship will give you the exposure you need.
Communications & Advocacy Internship
Health policies and research don’t mean much if people don’t understand or trust them. That’s where the Communications & Advocacy Internship comes in. WHO runs global health awareness campaigns on issues like mental health, vaccine safety, and disease prevention, and interns in this category help create content that informs and educates the public.
Expect to assist in social media management, press releases, content writing, and campaign strategy. If you’re good at storytelling, graphic design, or digital marketing, this internship could be a great fit. It’s best suited to students in communications, journalism, marketing, or media studies who want to use their skills to make a real difference in public health messaging.
Medical & Clinical Internship
If you’re studying medicine, nursing, or any clinical field, this is one of the most hands-on internships available at WHO. While you won’t be performing medical procedures, you will get exposure to global health programs, disease control strategies, and outbreak response teams. Interns in this category often assist in researching new medical treatments, evaluating healthcare services, and supporting WHO’s emergency response efforts.
This internship is an incredible opportunity for medical students who want to see how healthcare systems operate on an international level. You’ll work alongside medical professionals, helping to improve patient care strategies and public health responses in different countries. Some interns even get the chance to visit field projects or emergency response sites, gaining first-hand experience of global health crises.
Environmental Health Internship
Public health isn’t just about diseases, it’s also about the environment we live in. WHO plays a huge role in climate change research, air quality monitoring, and water sanitation projects, making this internship ideal for students interested in the connection between health and the environment. Interns in this field assist with research into pollution, climate change policies, and sustainable healthcare solutions. You might analyze how environmental factors contribute to diseases or help draft reports on global sustainability efforts. If you’re studying environmental science, public health, or sustainability, this internship could open doors to careers in climate policy, disaster management, and global environmental advocacy.
International Relations & Humanitarian Affairs Internship
Health is a global issue, which means the WHO works closely with governments, NGOs, and humanitarian organizations to ensure people receive the medical assistance they need. This internship focuses on international partnerships, crisis response, and humanitarian aid programs, making it perfect for students interested in diplomacy and global relations.
Interns in this category assist in coordinating aid programs, preparing reports on international health policies, and supporting emergency relief efforts. Whether it’s responding to natural disasters, refugee health crises, or pandemic outbreaks, this role is about tackling urgent health challenges through international collaboration. It’s ideal for students in international relations, global studies, or humanitarian affairs who want to gain experience working with large-scale relief organizations.
WHO Global Internship Programme
This is WHO’s flagship internship program, open to students and recent graduates from all over the world. Unlike the specialized internships mentioned earlier, this program allows interns to work in a variety of departments based on their skills and interests. Whether you want to focus on research, communications, policy-making, or fieldwork, this program lets you explore different aspects of the WHO’s operations. What makes this program unique is its flexibility and global reach. Interns can be placed at the WHO’s headquarters in Geneva, regional offices, or even remote positions, depending on their area of expertise. It’s highly competitive, but those who get selected gain unparalleled exposure to global health initiatives and real-world challenges in public health.
Fully Funded WHO Medical Internship for International Students
One of the biggest concerns for students looking for internships abroad is funding. Travel, accommodation, and other expenses can quickly add up, which is why the idea of a fully funded WHO medical internship sounds like a dream come true. While WHO internships are generally unpaid, there are certain programs, grants, and financial aid options that help cover expenses for international students.
Some WHO regional offices and partnered institutions offer stipends, travel allowances, or even full funding for selected medical interns. These opportunities are usually based on factors like financial need, merit, or sponsorship agreements with universities and external organizations. WHO’s official internship page often lists funding opportunities, so checking regularly can help you find financial aid that fits your situation.
Benefits of a Fully Funded WHO Medical Internship
If you manage to secure a fully funded internship, here’s what you can expect:
- Stipend: Some funded positions offer a monthly allowance to help cover living expenses.
- Travel Allowance: Certain programs may reimburse flights or provide a one-time travel grant.
- Health Insurance: WHO provides medical and accident insurance for interns during their placement.
- Exposure to Global Health Systems: Interns get to learn from WHO experts and participate in real medical and public health projects.
WHO Internship Salary & Benefits
One of the most common questions students ask is, “Does WHO pay its interns?” The simple answer? Most WHO internships are unpaid, but the organization does offer certain benefits that make the experience worthwhile. In the past, WHO did not provide any financial support to interns. However, in recent years, some internships have started offering stipends or financial assistance to help cover living expenses. The amount varies based on the internship location, available funding, and the specific department you’re placed in.
Non-Financial Benefits of a WHO Internship
Even though WHO internships might not always come with a paycheck, they offer several perks that make them highly valuable:
- Travel Assistance: Some offices provide financial help for international travel.
- Accommodation Support: While not guaranteed, some interns receive housing recommendations or support.
- Health & Accident Insurance: WHO ensures all interns are covered for medical and emergency expenses.
- Networking Opportunities: Interns work with leading health professionals and policymakers, opening doors to future job opportunities.
- Skill Development: Real-world exposure to public health policies, disease prevention strategies, and global health operations makes this a huge learning experience.
While a WHO internship might not always come with a paycheck, the career opportunities and industry connections you gain can lead to well-paying global health jobs in the future. If financial constraints are a concern, applying for external scholarships, university funding, or sponsorships can help cover expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for WHO Internship
Before getting too excited about applying, it’s important to check whether you meet the eligibility requirements for a WHO internship. The organization is very specific about who can apply, so let’s break down the main criteria.
Academic Background
WHO internships are open to students from various educational backgrounds, but preference is given to those studying:
- Public Health & Global Health
- Medicine & Nursing
- Epidemiology & Biostatistics
- Pharmaceutical & Biomedical Sciences
- Environmental Science & Sustainability
- Political Science, Law & International Relations (for policy-related roles)
- Communications & Digital Media (for advocacy and public awareness projects)
Age Requirements
To be eligible, you must be at least 20 years old at the time of application. There is no upper age limit, but most interns are university students or recent graduates.
Nationality & Visa Requirements
WHO internships are open to applicants from all countries, but depending on the office location, you may need to arrange your own visa. Some WHO offices provide guidance on visa applications, but securing a visa (if required) is usually the intern’s responsibility.
Required Skills & Experience
While prior work experience isn’t mandatory, having certain skills can increase your chances of getting selected. These include:
- Strong analytical and research abilities
- Excellent communication skills (written & verbal)
- Basic knowledge of public health, global policies, or medical research
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, data analysis tools, or digital media platforms (depending on the role)
Language Requirements
WHO operates in six official languages: English, French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, and Russian. You must be proficient in at least one of these languages, though knowing multiple languages is a huge plus. Most internship roles require fluency in English, as it is the primary working language at WHO.
WHO Internship Application Process
Applying for a WHO internship isn’t as complicated as it might seem, but it does require careful planning and preparation. To make the process easier, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply and what to expect along the way.
- Check eligibility to ensure you meet the requirements, including age, university enrollment, and language proficiency.
- Find the right role by browsing the WHO Careers Portal for internship positions that match your background.
- Prepare your documents, including your CV, cover letter, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters if required.
- Submit your application through the careers portal before the deadline.
- Wait for review as WHO evaluates applications, which may take weeks or months.
- Prepare for the interview if shortlisted by researching WHO’s work and practicing common questions.
- Receive selection results if you are accepted and review your offer letter.
- Complete pre-internship requirements, such as visa arrangements and onboarding training.
- Begin your internship by working under a mentor and contributing to global health projects.
Summary
The WHO Internship Programme is a unique opportunity for students and graduates to gain firsthand experience in global health, medical research, public policy, and international development. Whether you’re a medical student, a public health researcher, or someone interested in policy-making, the World Health Organization offers internship roles tailored to different career paths. Interns work on real-world projects, participate in high-level discussions, and build connections with professionals in the field. While most internships are unpaid, some opportunities offer stipends, travel assistance, and health insurance. The experience gained from working with the WHO can significantly boost career prospects, opening doors to roles in government agencies, NGOs, international health organizations, and academic research institutions. Those who complete the internship leave with valuable experience, professional networks, and a deeper understanding of how international health systems function.
