Are you an ambitious young professional looking to kickstart a career in international development? The World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) 2026 offers one of the most prestigious entry points into the World Bank Group (WBG), giving you the opportunity to work with the World Bank, IFC, and MIGA.
Through this program, highly qualified individuals are hired from around the world to contribute innovative ideas, technical expertise, and leadership to tackle global development challenges. The program offers a 2-year contract (GF level) followed by a potential 5-year renewable term, making it a career-defining opportunity.
About the World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP)
The World Bank Group Young Professionals Program is designed to recruit and develop future leaders in global development. Previously offered separately by the World Bank and IFC, the programs were merged into one WBG YPP, now covering three institutions:
- World Bank – lending and development policy projects.
- IFC (International Finance Corporation) – private sector investment and advisory services.
- MIGA (Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency) – political risk insurance and credit enhancement.
This fellowship is open to citizens of all World Bank member countries. It attracts candidates from diverse academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds.
World Bank Young Professionals Program Summary
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Host | World Bank Group (World Bank, IFC, MIGA) |
| Category | Fellowship / Training / Employment Program |
| Eligible Countries | All WBG member countries |
| Reward | Competitive salary, benefits package, and renewable employment contract |
| Contract | 2-year term + 5-year renewable based on performance |
| Application Deadline | September 30, 2025 |
| Program Start | 2026 |
Benefits of the World Bank YPP
Joining the World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026 comes with outstanding career and personal benefits:
- 💼 Employment Contract: Initial 2-year staff contract (GF level), renewable for 5 years.
- 💰 Competitive Salary: Commensurate with international development standards.
- 🩺 Insurance Coverage: Health, life, and accident insurance.
- 🏦 Pension Plan: Long-term financial security.
- ✈️ Relocation & Mobility Benefits: Depending on World Bank Group guidelines.
- 🌍 Global Impact: Opportunity to work on projects addressing poverty reduction, sustainability, and global economic growth.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be a national of a World Bank Group member country.
- Hold at least a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
- Have 2–6 years of professional experience in areas relevant to WBG’s mission.
- If pursuing a Ph.D., advanced doctoral studies in a relevant field may count toward the work experience requirement, provided substantial progress is made by September 1, 2026.
- Demonstrate strong English language proficiency (fluency in additional languages is an advantage).
- Not hold an ET or ST contract with the World Bank.
- Be eligible under WBG employment policies (interns and Junior Professional Associates can apply if their contracts end before September 30, 2025).
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents in the application portal:
- 📄 Updated CV/Resume (1–2 pages).
- 🛂 Passport bio-data page (proof of nationality and date of birth).
- 🎓 Postgraduate transcripts or enrollment confirmation letter.
- 📝 Project alignment statement (to demonstrate how your expertise fits WBG programs).
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: September 1, 2025
- Deadline: September 30, 2025 (11:59 PM UTC)
- Assessments & Interviews: December 2025 – January 2026
- Final Selection Results: Late January 2026
- Program Start: 2026 (based on institutional needs and candidate placement)
How to Apply for the World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026
Follow these steps for a successful application:
- Visit the official World Bank YPP portal: World Bank YPP Website
- Click Apply Now and create an account.
- Fill out the online application form with your bio-data and work history.
- Select your work program (World Bank, IFC, or MIGA) aligned with your skills.
- Upload all required documents (CV, transcripts, passport page, etc.).
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before the deadline: September 30, 2025.
📌 Tip: Highlight your leadership, international exposure, and professional experience in your application to stand out.
FAQs – World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026
1. Who can apply for the World Bank YPP?
Citizens of World Bank Group member countries with a relevant Master’s or Ph.D. and 2–6 years of experience.
2. Is the program paid?
Yes. It offers a competitive salary, benefits, and long-term employment.
3. Do I need a Ph.D. to apply?
No. A Master’s degree with work experience is sufficient, but Ph.D. candidates are also encouraged to apply.
4. Can current World Bank staff apply?
No. Candidates with ET/ST contracts are ineligible, but former interns and Junior Professional Associates may apply.
5. When are interviews conducted?
Between December 2025 and January 2026, with results announced in late January 2026.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) is one of the most prestigious fellowships in international development. With competitive pay, career growth opportunities, and the chance to work on global development challenges, it serves as a gateway to becoming a future leader at the World Bank Group.
👉 If you meet the requirements, apply before September 30, 2025. Don’t miss this chance to start your international career at one of the world’s leading development institutions.