2026 World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP): I want to start by saying that the World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) is one of the best ways to kick off a meaningful career at the World Bank Group. If you have ever imagined working on real global issues, this is a chance worth checking out.
Young Professionals are recruited from across the world, and I have seen that people from different professional and academic backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The program links to three big arms of the World Bank Group — the World Bank, IFC, and MIGA.
If you are lucky enough to be selected, you will get a 2-year contract at a mid-career level (GF level). After that, if your performance is strong, you can move into a 5-year renewable contract. I want to make it clear that this is not just a fellowship but a direct career path.
World Bank Group Young Professionals Program Summary
- Host: World Bank | IFC | MIGA
- Category: Internships | Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Reward: Competitive Salary | Benefits | Career Path
Deadline: September 30, 2025
Why This Program Matters
The World Bank and IFC merged their previous programs to create this single Young Professionals Program. I will say that this move was to make things easier and to prepare future leaders who can work across all three institutions.
Let’s say, for example, you studied economics but also have experience in finance. This program helps you fit into different roles because it is designed for diverse professionals. The World Bank prefers applicants from its member countries, but everyone with strong qualifications can try.
Program Requirements
To apply, you must:
- Have at least a master’s degree and 2–6 years of relevant work experience.
- Be a citizen of a World Bank Group member country.
- Have completed your degree before September 1, 2026.
If you’re doing a PhD, I want to point out that you should be close to finishing before September 2026.
Show excellent English skills (other languages are a plus).
Not be a World Bank staff member or on certain contracts.
You may still apply if you were a JPA or former intern, as long as your contract ends before September 30, 2025
Benefits of Joining
I will be honest here: one big reason many people apply is because of the strong benefits. The program gives a competitive salary plus insurance (health, life, accident), a pension plan, and relocation support if needed. Let’s check it — this is not just about money but also career stability.
Documents You Need
Before you apply, make sure you have:
- Your CV or Resume (1–2 pages).
- Passport photo page (to confirm nationality and age).
- Transcripts or enrollment letters (to confirm postgraduate studies).
How To Apply for 2026
- Visit the World Bank YPP website: https://www.worldbank.org/en/about/careers/the-young-professionals-program/howtoapply
- Click the APPLY button and submit your form online.
- The portal opens September 1, 2025 and closes September 30, 2025 (11:59 UTC).
- Make sure your application clearly matches your skills and experience with the work program.
- Interviews and assessments will take place December 2025 – January 2026.
- Selected candidates will be informed by late January 2026.
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