The World Bank Group’s premier internship program has officially opened applications for interested and eligible applicants to apply for the 2026 intake. The WBG Pioneers internship is designed to give students hands-on experience while contributing to real global development work within the World Bank Group.
About The Program
WBG Pioneers is the World Bank Group’s flagship internship program created for undergraduate and postgraduate students seeking structured learning and practical experience. The program allows interns to work on impactful projects that support the World Bank Group’s mission of reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development worldwide.
Participants are exposed to real-world development challenges while working alongside experienced professionals. Interns contribute directly to meaningful assignments and gain insight into how global development institutions operate. Applications will be accepted online from January 19, 2026, through February 17, 2026.
Why Apply?
WBG Pioneers offers a valuable opportunity for students who want hands-on experience in global development and related fields. The program welcomes candidates with interests across a wide range of technical, operational, and support areas, including the following:
- Economics and economic policy
- Investment and investment portfolio management
- Human development such as public health, education, nutrition, and population
- Social sciences including anthropology and sociology
- Agriculture and rural development
- Environment, climate, and sustainability
- Engineering and urban planning
- Natural resources management
- Private sector development
- Corporate support functions such as accounting, communications, human resources, information technology, and finance
As an intern, you will support ongoing projects across multiple sectors of the World Bank Group. These include health, education, economics, environment, agriculture, urban development, transport, digital development, energy, private sector growth, and corporate support functions. Interns gain practical experience, build professional skills, and work closely with teams to understand how development programs are designed and delivered.
Interns receive an hourly salary during the internship period. However, interns are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. Based on business needs, internship roles are located in Washington, D.C., and in World Bank Group country offices.
Eligibility
Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements to be considered for the WBG Pioneers internship. These requirements apply to both undergraduate and postgraduate tracks, as outlined below:
- Undergraduate Track applicants must be final-year bachelor’s degree students
- Postgraduate Track applicants must be enrolled in a master’s degree or Ph.D. program
- Applicants may have between 0 and 6 years of professional work experience
- Strong computing and other relevant technical skills are an added advantage
The World Bank Group values diversity and encourages applications from individuals with varied academic, cultural, and professional backgrounds. The goal is to attract talented candidates from around the world who are committed to global development.
Information Sessions
Interested applicants are encouraged to attend an internship information session to learn more about WBG Pioneers, the application process, and what the selection team looks for in candidates. The sessions are open to undergraduate and graduate students interested in global development careers.
- January 21, 11:00 AM ET
- January 27, 8:00 AM ET
- February 4, 9:00 PM ET
Method of Application
Applicants are required to submit their applications online and upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Interest
- Proof of Enrollment or Education Transcript
Undergraduate transcripts must clearly show final-year bachelor’s status. Postgraduate transcripts must indicate enrollment in a master’s or Ph.D. program. Once an application is submitted, no changes can be made. Applicants will receive an email confirmation with an application number.
Selection Timeline
Applicants will be notified by March 2026 if they are shortlisted for interviews. Final selections will also be made in March 2026. The WBG Pioneers 2026 cohort will begin in April 2026. The internship runs from April to September, with flexible start dates within this period.
Link to apply: https://www.worldbank.org/en/about/careers/WBG-Pioneers
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