The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) Internship Program 2026 is now accepting applications from students and recent graduates eager to gain hands-on experience in international development, sustainability, public health, governance, and policy-oriented roles. GIZ is a leading global development organization working across sectors to support sustainable progress in countries around the world, and these internships offer a meaningful way to build real-world capabilities while engaging with professionals in development cooperation.
Program Overview & What You Gain
Professional Exposure and Practical Experience
Selected interns will assist with ongoing projects, contribute to event planning, support communications and policy work, and work closely with experienced professionals. Tasks can include content creation, event coordination, platform support, research, and community engagement — depending on the specific placement.
Mentorship & Skills Development
Interns benefit from mentorship and skill building in areas like stakeholder engagement, policy implementation, research, communication, organizational planning, and multi-stakeholder collaboration.
Paid Internship with Competitive Stipend
Certain internships within the 2026 programme include attractive compensation. For example, roles supporting German Global Health Hub Germany offer a monthly gross stipend of €2,349 (approx. USD 2,500+), reflecting GIZ’s investment in professional development.
Who Should Apply (Eligibility)
GIZ internships are generally open to:
Currently enrolled students (undergraduate or postgraduate) for whom internship experience is part of academic or professional development
Recent graduates (typically within six months after graduation) seeking early-career experience
Individuals with strong interest or background in fields such as development cooperation, public policy, social sciences, economics, environmental studies, public health, governance, communications, or related disciplines
Applicants with solid communication, analytical, and organizational skills
Many roles require proficiency in English; some internships also value knowledge of German due to the nature of the host environment.
Specific eligibility criteria and required skills may vary by individual internship posting. Selected roles may ask for language competencies such as both German and English, depending on the country and function.
Internship Duration & Commitment
Duration: Most internships in the 2026 cycle are full-time positions lasting approximately 5–6 months (e.g., February to August 2026).
Work Mode: Positions are often based in Germany (e.g., Berlin) or at relevant GIZ offices, with structured daily commitments and mentorship opportunities.
How to Apply
Official Portal
All applications for GIZ internships must be submitted via the official GIZ recruitment portal:
🔗 https://jobs.giz.de
Typical Requirements
Updated CV / resume
Cover letter or motivation statement tailored to the internship role
Academic transcripts and enrollment confirmation (if applicable)
Relevant language proficiency certificates (if required)
Additional documents as specified in individual internship postings
Because specific internship roles may have separate deadlines and detailed criteria, applicants are encouraged to review available listings carefully and apply before the stated closing dates on the GIZ portal.
Why This Opportunity Matters
Build Career-Relevant Skills: Internships with GIZ provide real exposure to international cooperation, policy frameworks, and multidisciplinary development work — experiences that are valuable in public, private, and nonprofit careers.
Global Perspective: Working within teams that operate across countries and sectors enhances cultural competence and understanding of international development challenges.
Professional Networks: Interns gain access to professionals, partner organizations, and stakeholders that can support future job searches, collaborations, or studies.
Investment in Emerging Talent: Paid positions and formal mentorship ensure that participants are compensated for contributions and can focus on growth, not just volunteering.
