CARE International has opened applications for its 2026 Fellowship and Overseas Internship Programme. Gain international development experience, professional training, mentorship, and placements in CARE country offices worldwide.
Overview
CARE International continues to provide valuable fellowship and internship opportunities for graduate students and emerging development professionals seeking hands-on experience in humanitarian assistance, global development, public health, and related fields.
The CARE Fellowship Programme is designed to help develop future leaders in international development through practical learning experiences, mentorship, professional training, and placements within CARE country offices worldwide.
For individuals interested in building a career in humanitarian and development work, the programme offers a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience while contributing to projects that improve lives across vulnerable communities.
About the CARE Fellowship Programme
CARE is one of the world’s leading humanitarian and development organizations, working in more than 100 countries to fight poverty, support gender equality, improve health outcomes, strengthen resilience, and respond to emergencies.
The Overseas Internship and Fellowship Programme focuses on developing future development leaders through:
- International field experience
- Professional development training
- Mentorship and coaching
- Exposure to humanitarian operations
- Practical project-based learning
- Networking opportunities with development professionals
Fellows participate in CARE Academy training programmes and receive support designed to strengthen leadership and management capabilities.
Benefits
What Do You Gain?
Participants may benefit from:
- International development experience
- Placement within CARE country offices
- Exposure to humanitarian and development programmes
- Professional networking opportunities
- Access to CARE Academy training resources
- Leadership and management development
- Coaching and mentorship support
- Practical project experience
- Enhanced career prospects in international development
- Experience working in multicultural environments
Professional Development Components
The programme focuses on three key learning approaches:
- On-the-job training assignments
- Professional coaching and mentorship
- Formal training programmes
These experiences help participants develop both technical and leadership skills required for careers in international development.
Eligibility
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for a CARE Overseas Fellowship or Internship, applicants generally must:
- Be enrolled in a relevant graduate or postgraduate programme, or have graduated within the previous six months
- Have financial support from a university or sponsoring institution
- Be legally authorized to work under the laws of the internship location
- Obtain any required visa independently
- Possess comprehensive medical insurance coverage
- Demonstrate proficiency in the required language for the assignment
Preferred Qualifications
Strong candidates often possess:
- Graduate-level studies in a field related to CARE’s work
- At least two years of relevant professional experience
- Strong analytical and organizational skills
- Excellent communication abilities
- Experience working in diverse environments
- Proficiency in an additional language such as French, Spanish, or Portuguese
- Interest in international development and humanitarian assistance
Application Process
How to Apply
Step 1
Visit CARE’s internship and fellowship careers portal.
Step 2
Search available fellowship or overseas internship opportunities.
Step 3
Review assignment requirements and eligibility criteria.
Step 4
Prepare all required application materials.
Step 5
Submit your application through the online system.
Step 6
Wait for review and possible contact from the recruitment team.
Most placements occur between June and August, although opportunities may be available throughout the year.
Required Documents
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- Updated Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact information for at least three references
- Cover Letter explaining interests and qualifications
- Writing Sample (for writing-intensive assignments)
- Proof of enrollment or recent graduation
- Evidence of medical insurance coverage
- Visa documentation where required
Important Notes
CARE seeks to match fellows with assignments aligned to their:
- Academic background
- Professional experience
- Research interests
- Career goals
Selected participants may work on projects related to:
- Global health
- Gender equality
- Food security
- Climate resilience
- Humanitarian response
- Economic development
- Education programmes
- Policy and advocacy
Due to the competitive nature of the programme, only successful applicants are contacted. Applicants who do not receive a response within 60 days should consider their application unsuccessful.
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | CARE International Fellowship Programme 2026 |
| Organization | CARE International |
| Opportunity Type | Fellowship / Overseas Internship |
| Location | CARE Country Offices Worldwide |
| Eligibility | Graduate Students and Recent Graduates |
| Focus Areas | Development, Humanitarian Assistance, Global Health |
| Training | CARE Academy Professional Development |
| Duration | Varies by Assignment |
| Application Method | Online Application |
| International Placement | Yes |
Conclusion
The CARE International Fellowship Programme 2026 offers an excellent opportunity for aspiring development professionals to gain meaningful international experience while contributing to impactful humanitarian initiatives. Through mentorship, leadership training, field placements, and exposure to global development programmes, participants can build the skills and experience needed for successful careers in the international development sector.
For individuals passionate about creating positive social change and advancing global development goals, this programme provides a valuable pathway into one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations.
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