How to Apply for Jobs at WHO: Step-by-Step Application Process

The World Health Organization (WHO) is one of the most prestigious organizations in the world, offering impactful opportunities for professionals passionate about global health and development. Working at the WHO allows you to contribute to global health initiatives, make a tangible difference, and collaborate with experts from diverse fields. Whether you’re a seasoned health professional, a researcher, or someone with skills in administration or technology, the WHO has positions for a wide range of expertise.

For Nigerians and other Africans, applying for positions at the WHO offers the chance to build a meaningful international career while contributing to addressing critical global health challenges, including those that directly affect Africa. However, the application process can seem daunting if you’re unfamiliar with it. This guide will break down how to apply for WHO positions step by step, highlight essential tips, and provide key takeaways to help you succeed.

Step-by-Step Application Process for WHO Positions

Applying for a position at the World Health Organization (WHO) requires a well-structured approach. The process is competitive, as the WHO attracts applicants from all over the world. However, by understanding and following the step-by-step application process, you can significantly improve your chances of success. Here’s how to apply:

Step 1: Explore the WHO Careers Portal

All job opportunities at the WHO are listed on their official careers portal. Start by visiting the portal at WHO Careers. This site is your go-to resource for viewing available roles, understanding job descriptions, and applying for positions.

On the careers page, you can filter job listings by department, location, or level of experience. For Nigerians or other Africans, this is especially helpful for identifying roles within regional offices, such as the African Regional Office (AFRO), or international roles open to candidates worldwide.

Step 2: Create a Professional Profile

To apply for a position, you’ll need to create an account on the WHO e-Recruitment platform. This account will serve as your professional profile and include all the essential details about your education, work experience, and skills.

Tips for Building Your Profile:

• Use accurate and up-to-date information. Ensure your contact details, qualifications, and work experience are correct.
• Include all relevant certifications, awards, or training programs that demonstrate your expertise.
• Tailor your profile to align with the skills required for WHO positions. If you’re applying for a public health role, highlight your experience in program management or disease control. For non-medical roles, showcase your expertise in areas like project management, finance, or IT.

Once your profile is complete, you can reuse it for future job applications, saving you time and effort.

Step 3: Search for Relevant Positions

The WHO offers a range of job opportunities, from technical health-related roles to administrative and support positions. It’s important to find a job that matches your qualifications, experience, and career goals.

Use the search feature on the WHO careers portal to narrow down positions based on your area of expertise. For example, if you’re a healthcare professional, you might look for roles in disease surveillance or health systems strengthening. If your background is in administration, search for positions in human resources or logistics.

Read the job descriptions carefully to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, years of experience, and language requirements.

Step 4: Tailor Your Application

Once you’ve identified a position, it’s time to craft a strong application. This involves submitting your CV or resume and a cover letter that aligns with the specific job requirements.

Tips for Tailoring Your Application:

• Customize Your CV: Highlight relevant experiences and achievements that directly relate to the job description. Use action-oriented language to describe your accomplishments, such as “Implemented a disease surveillance program that improved reporting accuracy by 30%.”
• Write a Strong Cover Letter: Your cover letter should demonstrate your understanding of the role and how your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate. Use specific examples to back up your claims.
• Follow the instructions: Ensure that your application includes all required documents, such as transcripts, certifications, and references, if requested.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once your CV and cover letter are ready, upload them to your profile and submit your application through the WHO careers portal. Pay close attention to the deadline, as late applications are not accepted.

You’ll receive a confirmation email once your application has been successfully submitted. This is your assurance that the WHO has received your application and will review it during the shortlisting process.

Step 6: Prepare for Assessments and Interviews

If your application is shortlisted, you’ll be invited to participate in the next stages of the selection process, which may include assessments, interviews, or both.

• Assessments: Depending on the role, you may need to complete written tests or practical assessments to demonstrate your technical skills or knowledge.
• Interviews: Interviews are often conducted virtually, especially for international candidates. Prepare by researching the WHO’s mission, vision, and recent projects. Be ready to discuss your previous experience, problem-solving skills, and how you align with the organization’s goals.

During the interview, focus on showcasing your ability to contribute to global health initiatives and your passion for the WHO’s mission.

Step 7: Await the Final Decision

After completing the assessments and interviews, the WHO will evaluate candidates and notify successful applicants. This process may take several weeks to months, depending on the volume of applications and the urgency of the role.

If selected, you’ll receive an official offer letter detailing the terms and conditions of your employment, including salary, benefits, and contract duration. Review the offer carefully and prepare for onboarding, which may include submitting additional documents or attending orientation sessions.

Following this step-by-step process ensures that you present a strong application while meeting all the requirements for WHO positions. By preparing thoroughly and aligning your skills with the organization’s goals, you can take a significant step toward building a fulfilling career at the World Health Organization.

Types of Positions Available at WHO

The World Health Organization (WHO) offers a wide range of opportunities for professionals across various disciplines. Whether you’re a public health specialist, an administrative professional, or someone looking to begin your career, the WHO has roles that cater to diverse skill sets. Understanding the types of positions available can help you determine where your qualifications and career goals align.

#1. Full-Time Roles for Experienced Professionals

WHO offers a variety of full-time positions across its headquarters, regional offices, and country offices. These roles are typically designed for experienced professionals with substantial expertise in their respective fields.

• Health-Related Roles: These include epidemiologists, medical officers, disease surveillance experts, and public health advisors. Professionals in these roles focus on areas like disease prevention, health system strengthening, vaccination programs, and pandemic response.
• Administrative and Support Roles: The WHO also employs professionals in administrative areas like finance, human resources, procurement, and logistics. These roles are critical for the smooth operation of the organization.
• Technical and Research Roles: WHO regularly seeks candidates with technical expertise in areas like data analysis, health informatics, and laboratory research. Researchers may work on cutting-edge projects to develop strategies for combating global health challenges.

These roles often require advanced degrees (such as a master’s or doctorate) and several years of experience. Fluency in one of the official WHO languages—English, French, or Spanish—is typically mandatory, with knowledge of additional languages considered an asset.

#2. Internships and Young Professional Opportunities

For individuals at the start of their careers, WHO offers internships and entry-level roles that provide hands-on experience and exposure to global health initiatives.

• Internship Program: The WHO Internship Program is open to students and recent graduates interested in gaining practical experience in public health, administration, or technical fields. Although internships are often unpaid, they provide invaluable exposure to WHO’s work and can be a stepping stone to full-time roles.
• Young Professional Opportunities: WHO occasionally launches initiatives targeting young professionals. These programs are designed to nurture talent and prepare participants for long-term careers in global health.

Interns and young professionals often work on projects such as community health education, data collection, and operational support. These roles require academic excellence, passion for public health, and strong communication skills.

#3. National and International Positions

WHO offers both national and international roles, depending on the nature of the position.

• National Positions: These are roles within a candidate’s home country, often based in WHO country offices. They typically focus on local health challenges, such as implementing health programs or providing administrative support to regional initiatives.
• International Positions: These roles involve working at WHO headquarters or in regional offices worldwide. International positions often address global health issues and require the ability to work in multicultural environments.

National positions are ideal for individuals who want to contribute to their country’s health system while gaining WHO experience. International positions are more competitive and are suited for professionals with extensive experience and expertise.

WHO Qualifications and Requirements

To successfully apply for a position at WHO, it’s essential to meet the qualifications and requirements specific to the role you’re interested in. WHO places a strong emphasis on hiring individuals who possess the technical skills, experience, and values needed to advance global health initiatives. Below is an overview of the common qualifications and requirements across WHO roles.

#1. Educational Qualifications

Academic credentials are a key requirement for most positions at WHO. The level of education required varies depending on the role:

• For Health-Related Roles: A degree in medicine, public health, nursing, epidemiology, or related fields is typically required. Advanced degrees such as a master’s in public health (MPH) or a doctorate may be necessary for senior roles.
• For Administrative Roles: Degrees in business administration, finance, human resources, or related fields are common requirements.
• For Technical Roles: A degree in data science, computer science, engineering, or other technical disciplines is often essential.

For internships and entry-level roles, students and recent graduates must be enrolled in or have recently completed relevant programs.

#2. Professional Experience

The amount and type of experience required depend on the level of the position.

• Entry-Level Roles: These require minimal professional experience and are ideal for individuals starting their careers.
• Mid-Level and Senior Roles: These positions typically require 5–10 years of professional experience in relevant fields. For example, a public health advisor role might require prior experience in managing vaccination programs or conducting disease surveillance.

Experience in international organizations, NGOs, or public sector roles is often considered an advantage.

#3. Language Proficiency

WHO operates in multiple languages, but fluency in one of the official languages—English, French, or Spanish—is mandatory for most positions.

• English Proficiency: English is the primary working language for most WHO roles. Applicants may need to demonstrate their language skills through tests like IELTS or TOEFL, particularly if English is not their first language.
• Other Languages: Knowledge of additional languages, such as Arabic, Chinese, or Russian, is highly desirable, especially for roles in specific regional offices.

#4. Core Competencies

WHO looks for candidates who demonstrate the following core competencies:

• Communication Skills: The ability to convey information effectively and work collaboratively in multicultural environments.
• Teamwork: A willingness to collaborate with colleagues across different departments and regions.
• Problem-Solving: The capacity to identify challenges and propose innovative solutions.
• Adaptability: The ability to work under pressure and adapt to rapidly changing circumstances.

These competencies are assessed during the interview and selection process, so it’s important to provide examples of how you’ve demonstrated these skills in past roles.

Additional Requirements

Some positions may have additional requirements, such as:

• Technical Expertise: For roles in data analysis, IT, or research, proficiency in relevant software, tools, or methodologies is essential.
• Travel Flexibility: Many roles require candidates to travel, sometimes to remote or high-risk areas, to oversee health programs or respond to emergencies.
• References: Professional references from previous employers or academic mentors may be required.

Meeting these qualifications and requirements ensures that you are eligible for the role and positions you as a strong candidate. By aligning your skills, experience, and application materials with WHO’s needs, you can take a significant step toward joining one of the world’s most impactful organizations.

5 Tips for Crafting a Strong Application

Crafting a strong application for a position at the World Health Organization (WHO) requires careful attention to detail and a clear strategy. WHO receives thousands of applications for its roles, so it’s crucial to make yours stand out. Below are essential tips to help you present a competitive application.

1. Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter

Your CV and cover letter should be customized for each role you apply for. Avoid submitting generic documents that don’t address the specific requirements of the position.
Focus on highlighting your most relevant qualifications, skills, and achievements that align with the job description. Use measurable accomplishments to demonstrate your impact in previous roles. For example, instead of stating, “Managed a health program,” write, “Successfully led a community health program that improved vaccination rates by 25%.”

In your cover letter, explain why you’re passionate about working with WHO and how your skills align with the organization’s mission. Be specific and provide concrete examples of your expertise.

2. Showcase Your International and Cross-Cultural Experience

WHO operates in diverse environments, often dealing with cross-border health challenges. If you have experience working in international organizations, NGOs, or culturally diverse teams, emphasize this in your application. Highlight how your background has prepared you to work in multicultural settings or handle global health issues.

For example, if you’ve managed health projects across different regions, mention how you adapted to local contexts and collaborated with stakeholders from varied cultural backgrounds.

3. Demonstrate Core Competencies

The WHO prioritizes candidates who exhibit core competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills are often evaluated during the application and interview process, so it’s essential to provide examples that demonstrate them.
For instance, if you’ve led a team through a challenging project, describe the steps you took to ensure collaboration, resolve conflicts, and achieve the desired outcome.

4. Focus on Language Skills

Language proficiency is a critical requirement for many WHO roles. Even if you are fluent in English (the primary working language), knowing additional languages can give you a competitive edge. Mention your language skills clearly in your CV and provide certifications, if applicable, such as IELTS or DELF scores.

If you’re proficient in French, Arabic, Spanish, or other UN languages, highlight how these skills will enable you to communicate effectively in specific regions or teams.

5. Prepare for the Interview Process

If shortlisted, you’ll need to attend interviews that assess both your technical expertise and alignment with WHO’s mission. Prepare by reviewing WHO’s recent projects, global health strategies, and key initiatives in your area of interest. Practice answering questions about your professional background, problem-solving abilities, and leadership experience.
Research common behavioral interview techniques, such as the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), to structure your responses effectively.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

The process of applying for a WHO position is highly competitive and comes with its own set of challenges. Understanding these challenges and preparing for them can significantly improve your chances of success.

Navigating the Competitive Landscape

One of the biggest challenges is the level of competition. WHO roles attract applicants from around the globe, making it difficult to stand out.

To overcome this, focus on aligning your application with the specific requirements of the role. Avoid generalizations in your CV and cover letter. Instead, tailor your documents to highlight your expertise in areas that the job description prioritizes. Additionally, apply for multiple roles that match your qualifications to increase your chances of being shortlisted.

Meeting Experience Requirements

Many WHO roles require substantial experience, which can be intimidating for entry-level applicants.

If you’re early in your career, consider applying for internships or junior positions. These roles often have lower experience thresholds but provide invaluable exposure to WHO’s work. Similarly, volunteer experiences with health-focused NGOs or local organizations can help build your qualifications over time.

Understanding the Application Process

The WHO application process involves multiple steps, from submitting documents to assessments and interviews. It can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the e-recruitment system.

Take the time to familiarize yourself with the WHO careers portal. Ensure you have all required documents ready before starting your application, and double-check that your information is accurate and complete. If you encounter technical difficulties, contact the portal’s support team for assistance.

Adapting to Language Proficiency Expectations

If English is not your first language, proving language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL can be challenging.

To address this, invest time in preparing for language exams. Take practice tests and consider enrolling in online courses to improve your skills. If French or Spanish is required for the role, focus on building proficiency through language learning platforms or in-person classes.

Dealing with Long Wait Times

WHO’s recruitment process can be lengthy, sometimes taking months from application submission to final decisions. This can be frustrating for candidates waiting for updates.

Stay patient and proactive. While waiting, continue applying for other opportunities or consider engaging in professional development activities to enhance your skills.

Who can apply for WHO positions?

WHO positions are open to candidates from all member states, including Nigeria. Eligibility depends on the role and its specific requirements, such as qualifications, years of experience, and language proficiency.

Are there roles for non-medical professionals?

Yes, the WHO offers roles in areas such as administration, finance, IT, communications, and project management in addition to health-related positions.

Do I need international work experience to apply?

While international experience is an advantage, many WHO roles prioritize relevant skills and expertise over geographic work history. Roles are available for both national and international contexts.

Are internships paid?

WHO internships are generally unpaid, but some financial support may be available, depending on the location and program. Internships provide valuable experience and are a great stepping stone to full-time positions.

How long does the recruitment process take?

The WHO recruitment process can take several weeks to months, depending on the role and the volume of applications. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for assessments and interviews.

Conclusion

Applying for a position at the World Health Organization is a rewarding journey that allows you to contribute to global health and make a meaningful impact. Whether you’re a health professional, an administrator, or a technical expert, the WHO offers a range of opportunities to suit various skill sets and career goals.

While the application process is competitive, a well-crafted application that highlights your qualifications, experience, and alignment with WHO’s mission can set you apart. By following the step-by-step application process, tailoring your CV and cover letter, and preparing thoroughly for assessments and interviews, you position yourself as a strong candidate.

For Nigerians and other African applicants, WHO roles represent a chance to address health challenges in your region and globally. Whether you start with an internship or apply for a senior position, working at WHO provides a platform to grow professionally while contributing to life-saving initiatives. Begin your journey today and take the first step toward a fulfilling and impactful career with the World Health Organization.

References

• WHO Careers Portal
• WHO Internships
• About WHO
• WHO Core Competencies