Apply Now: WHO Opens 2026 Paid Internship Programme for Nursing Students and Graduate Nurses
By FNA News
The World Health Organization (WHO) has opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme, providing nursing students and recent graduate nurses with an opportunity to gain international work experience while contributing to global public health initiatives.
The programme offers participants practical exposure to WHO’s work across its headquarters, regional offices and country offices worldwide. Successful applicants may also receive a monthly living allowance, medical and accident insurance, and the opportunity to work alongside leading experts in nursing, public health and healthcare policy.
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For aspiring nurse leaders, researchers and public health professionals, the internship represents a valuable pathway into global health and international healthcare practice.
A Global Learning Opportunity for Future Nurses
WHO’s Internship Programme is designed to strengthen the knowledge and skills of students and young professionals by immersing them in real-world health programmes and policy development.
Interns work with multidisciplinary teams on projects that support WHO’s mission to improve health, respond to emergencies and promote universal health coverage. Participants gain practical experience while learning how evidence-based policies are developed and implemented at an international level.
The programme also provides opportunities to build professional networks with experts from different countries, an experience that can enhance future career prospects in clinical practice, research, academia, leadership and global health.
Benefits of the WHO Internship Programme
Successful interns may be eligible for several benefits, including:
- A monthly living allowance (subject to eligibility and duty station)
- Medical and accident insurance during the internship
- Hands-on experience within one of the world’s leading public health organisations
- Mentorship from experienced international health professionals
- Exposure to global health programmes, policy development and research
- Opportunities to build international professional networks
The duration of internships varies depending on the assignment and departmental requirements.
Who Can Apply?
According to WHO, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 20 years old at the time of application.
- Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate, postgraduate or master’s degree programme in Nursing or another relevant health-related discipline, or have recently graduated within the eligibility period specified by WHO.
- Undergraduate applicants should have completed at least three years of full-time study before the internship begins.
- Be proficient in at least one of the working languages of the WHO office where they are applying.
- Hold citizenship of a WHO Member State.
- Have no close family relationship with a current WHO staff member.
- Not have previously participated in the WHO Internship Programme.
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Applicants should carefully review the requirements for each advertised internship, as eligibility criteria may vary depending on the duty station and department.
Opportunities Available for Nurses
The internship offers nursing students and graduate nurses exposure to a broad range of professional areas, including:
- Public Health Nursing
- Primary Health Care
- Universal Health Coverage
- Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
- Infection Prevention and Control
- Emergency Preparedness and Humanitarian Response
- Health Policy
- Epidemiology
- Health Research
- Programme Management
These placements provide participants with practical insight into how nurses contribute to health system strengthening, disease prevention and international health policy.
Applications Are Accepted Throughout the Year
Unlike many graduate recruitment programmes, WHO accepts internship applications throughout the year.
Internship vacancies are published as opportunities become available, with each position carrying its own application deadline. Prospective applicants are encouraged to monitor the WHO Careers Portal regularly and submit applications for roles that align with their qualifications and career interests.
How to Apply
Interested nursing students and graduate nurses should apply through the official WHO Careers platform.
Applicants are advised to prepare the following before submitting their applications:
- An up-to-date curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts or proof of enrolment
- Any additional documents requested for the specific internship
Applications should only be submitted through WHO’s official recruitment portal.
Official WHO Application Pages
- WHO Internship Programme: https://www.who.int/careers/internship-programme
- WHO Careers Portal: https://careers.who.int
FNA News Analysis
International internship programmes are becoming increasingly important for nurses seeking careers beyond traditional clinical settings. As healthcare systems face growing global challenges, including emerging diseases, workforce shortages and health inequalities,there is increasing demand for nurses with experience in public health, research, policy development and international collaboration.
The WHO Internship Programme provides nursing students and newly qualified nurses with an opportunity to broaden their professional perspective, develop leadership competencies and understand how global health policies influence healthcare delivery across countries.
For African nursing students and graduate nurses interested in public health or international organisations, the programme offers a strong foundation for future careers while contributing to WHO’s mission of promoting health, keeping the world safe and serving vulnerable populations.
Fellow Nurses Africa encourages eligible nursing students and graduate nurses across Africa to explore the available opportunities and submit their applications through the official WHO Careers Portal.
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Fellow Nurses Africa is the independent voice of African nursing, we educate, inform and support nurses across Africa.
Charles Wealth is an accomplished healthcare administrator with decades of hands-on experience across various healthcare organizations in Nigeria and beyond. Known for his strategic leadership, operational excellence, and deep commitment to advancing the nursing profession, Charles brings a wealth of expertise to healthcare management, policy, and professional development.
As a co-founder and Editor at Fellow Nurses Africa, he plays a pivotal role in shaping content that educates, inspires, and unites nurses across the continent. His editorial vision focuses on amplifying the voices of nurses, highlighting best practices, addressing contemporary challenges in healthcare, and promoting professional growth within the nursing community.
With a strong background in healthcare administration, Charles is passionate about bridging the gap between clinical practice and effective leadership. He continues to contribute significantly to the development of robust healthcare systems and the empowerment of nurses through knowledge sharing and advocacy.
