The World Bank Group has opened applications for WBG Pioneers, its flagship internship programme designed to attract top undergraduate and postgraduate talent from around the world. The programme offers structured learning, hands-on professional experience, and direct exposure to one of the most influential global development institutions.
Applications are open online from January 19 to February 17, 2026.
About WBG Pioneers
WBG Pioneers is the World Bank Group’s premier internship programme, created to give students meaningful, project-based experience across its operational and corporate functions. Interns work on real assignments that contribute to development outcomes while gaining insight into how the institution designs, finances, and delivers global development solutions.
Participants are embedded in teams, collaborate with experienced professionals, and develop skills relevant to careers in international development, policy, finance, and public service.
Why Apply?
WBG Pioneers is designed for students who want more than a résumé credential. Interns are expected to contribute substantively to ongoing work across a wide range of disciplines, including:
Economics and development policy
Investment and portfolio management
Public health, education, nutrition, and population
Social sciences (anthropology, sociology)
Agriculture, environment, and natural resource management
Engineering, urban planning, and transport
Digital development and energy
Private sector development
Corporate functions such as accounting, communications, human resources, IT, and finance
Interns gain practical experience, professional mentorship, and a close-up view of how the World Bank Group supports global development goals across regions and sectors.
Internship Structure and Benefits
Paid internship (hourly salary)
Locations: Primarily Washington, D.C., with opportunities in World Bank Group country offices
Duration: April to September 2026 (start dates may vary within this window)
Accommodation: Interns are responsible for their own housing
Placements are driven by business needs and project requirements across the institution.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
Undergraduate Track: Final-year bachelor’s students
Postgraduate Track: Master’s or Ph.D. students currently enrolled
Professional experience: 0–6 years (both tracks)
Strong computing and relevant technical skills are an advantage
The World Bank Group strongly encourages applications from candidates of diverse academic, professional, and geographic backgrounds, with the aim of attracting the best global talent.
Information Sessions (Online)
Prospective applicants can join an official information session to learn more about the programme, the application process, and selection criteria:
January 21, 2026 – 11:00 AM ET
January 27, 2026 – 8:00 AM ET
February 4, 2026 – 9:00 PM ET
Application Process
Applicants will be required to upload:
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of Interest
Proof of enrolment / academic transcript
Transcripts must clearly show:
Final-year status for undergraduate applicants
Master’s or Ph.D. enrolment for postgraduate applicants
Once submitted, applications cannot be edited or updated. Applicants will receive an email confirmation with an application number.
Selection Timeline
Interview notifications: By March 2026
Final selections: March 2026
Cohort start: From April 2026
Internship window: April to September 2026
For students considering careers in global development, finance, public policy, or international institutions, WBG Pioneers offers rare early exposure to high-impact work at scale. The programme is both competitive and demanding, but for successful candidates, it provides a strong foundation for future roles within multilateral institutions, governments, development finance, and the private sector.
Applications close February 17, 2026. Apply Here
