2026 WTO Internship Programme for Graduate Students – Geneva, Switzerland The World Trade Organisation WTO Internship Programme 2026. is currently ongoing. Apply below!
Application Deadline?
Not specified
About the WTO Internship Programme:
The WTO Internship Programme provides an opportunity for post-graduate students from WTO member and observer countries to gain valuable experience from working at the WTO.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Assignments given to interns are intended to enhance the individual’s understanding of the WTO and of trade policy more generally. However, internships include opportunities in other specialist areas, such as finance, human resources, language services, IT and communications. The division to which the intern is assigned determines the precise nature of the work to be undertaken. Many interns work in the following areas:
| Trade lawEconomicsStatisticsTrade policyLanguages | Administration (procurement, finance, human resources), Information, communication and external relationsInformation management |
Information about the responsibilities of the WTO’s divisions is available here
Scholarship Type?
Internship
Who can apply for WTO Internship Programme?
A candidate must:
- be a national of a WTO member state or a country or customs territory engaged in accession negotiations
- have completed his/her undergraduate studies in a relevant discipline and have completed at least one year of his/her postgraduate studies
- be at least 21 years old and a maximum of 30 years old during the internship.
Which Countries are Eligible?
WTO member states or a country or customs territory engaged in accession negotiations
Where will the Award be taken?
Switzerland
Benefits of WTO Internship Programme?
Interns receive a daily allowance of CHF 60 (including week-ends and official holidays falling within the selected period). Travel expenses to and from Geneva cannot be paid by the WTO, and such travel is not covered by the Organisation’s insurance.
Medical health insurance coverage is mandatory in Switzerland, and interns are responsible for organising their own health insurance prior to commencing their internship at the WTO.
Duration of Program?
Up to a maximum of six months.
How to Apply for WTO Internship Programme?
Candidates should submit their applications through the WTO external jobs platform, and only candidates selected for an interview are contacted. The system provides instructions for online application procedures. A roster of suitable candidates is maintained from which interns are selected. Suitable applications are maintained on the roster for one year.
Intake to the WTO Internship Programme is on an ongoing basis, with no specific recruitment period. However, there may be specific vacancy notices for internship positions requiring particular qualifications and skill sets published on the WTO’s e-Recruitment website.
Visit the Award Webpage for Details
FAQs
Who is eligible to apply for the 2026 WTO Internship Programme?
The 2026 WTO Internship Programme is open to graduate students who are currently enrolled in a master’s or PhD programme, or who have completed such a programme within the past year. Applicants must be citizens of a WTO member country and should have a strong academic background in fields such as economics, international relations, law, or related areas. Proficiency in English is required, while knowledge of French or Spanish is an added advantage.
What benefits do interns receive during the WTO Internship Programme?
Interns receive a daily stipend (usually around CHF 60 per day, subject to WTO policy updates) to cover basic living expenses in Geneva, Switzerland. The WTO also provides interns with access to training workshops, conferences, and networking opportunities. However, the organisation does not cover travel costs, accommodation, or health insurance, so interns must arrange these independently.
How long does the internship last, and what kind of work will interns do?
The WTO Internship Programme typically lasts up to six months, depending on department needs and intern availability. Interns work within various WTO divisions, assisting with research, policy analysis, meeting preparation, documentation, and other tasks related to international trade and global economic policy. Interns gain hands-on experience and exposure to real-world trade negotiations and WTO processes.
How can I apply for the 2026 WTO Internship Programme?
Applications are submitted online through the WTO e-recruitment portal. Interested candidates must create an account, complete the application form, and upload required documents such as a CV, academic transcripts, proof of enrollment or graduation, and a cover letter. Early application is advised because selection is competitive and positions are filled on a rolling basis.