Application Deadline: September 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM UTC
Applications are now open for the 2027 World Bank Group (WBG) Young Professionals Program. The World Bank Group’s Young Professionals Program is the WBG’s flagship leadership development initiative, for highly talented individuals who are passionate about global development.
The Young Professionals Program offers a unique opportunity to build technical expertise, gain international experience, and contribute to projects that address the world’s most pressing development challenges.
Eligibility Requirements
Education
Minimum graduate-level degree or a higher qualification in a relevant field, completed before September start date.
Experience
2 to 6 years of professional experience in related work area. If you are pursuing a doctorate, full-time doctoral research studies in a relevant field at an accredited institution may count towards the required work experience, and the degree must be substantially complete with all the written work submitted before September start date.
Nationality
Applicants must hold the nationality of a World Bank Group member country, as demonstrated by an officially issued passport or equivalent document.
Language Proficiency
An excellent command of spoken and written English is mandatory. Fluency in additional languages is considered an advantage and may strengthen your application.
Employment Status
You cannot be a current World Bank Group employee at the time of application (including term, open, short-term [ST], and extended-term [ET] appointments). You also must not have a close relative working at the World Bank Group or a spouse in a direct or indirect supervisory relationship.
Program Highlights
- Global and competitive selection
- Initial start in HQ followed by field rotations in various World Bank Group offices
- Initial two-year program followed by a five-year contract upon performance
- Working experience across the World Bank, IFC, and MIGA through rotations
- Tailored training program in coaching, mentorship, and leadership
Program Features
Rotations provide participants with broad exposure to global operations and diverse development challenges, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the institution’s work.
Beyond rotations, the program emphasizes continuous learning and career acceleration. Participants benefit from tailored leadership and technical training, dedicated mentorship, and direct engagement with senior leaders, creating opportunities to build strategic networks and gain insights into high-level decision-making.
Appointment Type: GF-level term appointment
Duration & Contract: The YPP is a 2-year program. Upon successful completion, participants are placed in a role for an additional 5 years based on performance, with the possibility of contract renewal.
YPP Tracks: Candidates may apply under one of two tracks:
- Operations
- Specialized Functions
Rotations The program includes three mandatory rotations of 8 months each, structured as follows:
- One rotation within your primary function and area of expertise
- One cross-institutional rotation
- At least one rotation must be based in a country office
Application Requirements
- Portal Opens: September 1, 2026
- Deadline: September 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM UTC Late applications will not be considered.
- Interviews & Assessments: December 2026 – January 2027
- Final Selection Notification: Late January 2027 – Early February 2027
Required Documents
- CV/Resume
Ideally 1 page, maximum 2 pages - Passport Photo Page
Confirming birth date and primary nationality - Academic Proof
Transcript(s) or enrollment letter(s) verifying post-graduate degrees and expected completion dates
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the World Bank Group (WBG) Young Professionals Program.
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