The World Bank Group (WBG) Young Professionals Program for 2026 is currently accepting applications. This initiative recruits exceptional global talent with specialised technical expertise and varied professional backgrounds to contribute to the World Bank, MIGA, and IFC’s mission of creating a poverty-free world on a sustainable planet.
Read more about Opportunities
Participants enter the World Bank Group through either Operations or Specialised function pathways on an initial two-year contract, with the possibility of a subsequent five-year renewable agreement contingent upon job performance.
The program features a comprehensive professional development framework through the YP Academy, encompassing technical and operational training, multilingual instruction, negotiation and business capabilities, and executive leadership preparation. Participants benefit from individual coaching sessions, mentorship opportunities, and strategic discussions with executive leadership.
Qualification Criteria
- Education: Graduate degree (master’s level minimum) with 2-6 years of relevant professional experience.
- Citizenship: Must be a national of a World Bank Group member nation (verified through a valid passport or equivalent documentation).
- Degree Completion: A Master’s degree or higher in a pertinent discipline must be completed by September 1, 2026. Doctoral candidates may count full-time research at accredited institutions toward experience requirements, provided all written components are submitted by the September 1, 2026, deadline
- Language Skills: Proficient English communication abilities required (additional language competencies may strengthen candidacy).
- Employment Status: Cannot be current World Bank Group personnel or restricted from program participation under employment eligibility guidelines during the application period.
- Contract Restrictions: Must not possess ET or ST contracts with the Bank.
- Previous Affiliations: JPA holders and former Bank interns are eligible (internships must conclude by September 30, 2025).
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Employment Details
- Start Date: Program participants must commence full-time employment on September 1, 2026 (no deferrals available).
- Contract Structure: Initial 2-year mid-career position (GF level) with potential 5-year extension based on performance evaluation.
- Visa Support: G-type visa eligibility for participants and family members may be available.
- Location: Placement possible in Washington, DC headquarters or any global World Bank Group field office (relocation readiness required).
Application Guidelines
Submission Window: Applications accepted from September 1, 2025, through September 30, 202,5 at 11:59 UTC (submissions after the deadline will be rejected).
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Required Documentation
- Professional resume/CV (recommended 1 page, maximum 2 pages).
- Passport identification page (for age and nationality verification).
- Academic transcripts or enrollment confirmation (to validate graduate credentials and completion timelines).
- Important Note: Ensure your chosen work program aligns clearly with your demonstrated qualifications, educational background, and professional experience.
- Selection Timeline: Qualified applicants will receive interview and assessment invitations between December 2025 and January 2026.
- Final Notification: The World Bank expects to announce selected candidates in late January 2026.
Final Application Deadline: September 30, 2025, at 11:59 UTC. Click HEREÂ to apply.
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