The World Bank Group (WBG) has announced the WBG Pioneers Internship Program 2026, its premier internship initiative designed for talented undergraduate and postgraduate students from around the world. This competitive program offers a unique opportunity to gain structured learning, hands-on experience, and direct exposure to the mission, values, and operations of one of the world’s leading global development institutions.
Applications for the WBG Pioneers 2026 will be accepted online from January 19, 2026, to February 17, 2026.
About the Program
WBG Pioneers is the World Bank Group’s flagship internship program, created to nurture future global development professionals. The program is open to final-year undergraduate students and postgraduate students (Master’s or Ph.D.), providing them with meaningful work experience through active participation in real projects.
As a WBG Pioneer intern, you will work on impactful assignments, collaborate with experienced professionals, and contribute to initiatives that support the World Bank Group’s mission of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity worldwide. The program combines professional development with practical exposure, allowing interns to better understand how global development institutions operate.
Why Apply for WBG Pioneers 2026?
The WBG Pioneers Internship Program is ideal for students who want to make a real-world impact while building a strong foundation for their careers. Interns are exposed to a wide range of operations and corporate support functions, including but not limited to:
- Economics and economic research
- Investment and investment portfolio management
- Human development (public health, education, nutrition, population)
- Social sciences (anthropology, sociology)
- Agriculture and food systems
- Environment and climate
- Engineering and urban planning
- Natural resources management
- Transport, digital development, and energy
- Private sector development
- Corporate support functions (accounting, communications, HR, IT, finance)
Interns actively contribute to ongoing projects across sectors such as health, education, environment, agriculture, urban development, and private sector growth, while also developing essential professional and technical skills. Working closely with World Bank Group staff, interns gain valuable insights into how large-scale development programs are designed and implemented.
In addition to professional growth, interns receive an hourly salary. However, interns are responsible for arranging and covering their own accommodation. Based on business needs, internships are primarily located in Washington, D.C., as well as in World Bank Group country offices.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the WBG Pioneers Internship 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Undergraduate Track:
- Must be a final-year bachelor’s student at the time of application
- Postgraduate Track:
- Must be currently pursuing a Master’s degree or a Ph.D.
- For both tracks:
- Applicants may have 0 to 6 years of professional experience
- Strong computing, analytical, and technical skills are an advantage
The World Bank Group is committed to diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from candidates of all nationalities and backgrounds. The program aims to attract top global talent with a strong interest in development work.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications online during the official application window.
You will be required to upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Interest
- Proof of Enrollment / Education Transcript
For the Undergraduate Track, the transcript must clearly show that you are in your final year of a bachelor’s degree.
For the Postgraduate Track, the transcript must clearly indicate that you are pursuing a Master’s degree or a Ph.D.
Once the application is submitted, no changes or updates can be made. Applicants will receive an email confirmation containing their application number.
Selection Timeline
- January 19 – February 17, 2026: Online application period
- March 2026:
- Shortlisted candidates notified and invited for interviews
- Final selections made
- April 2026:
- WBG Pioneers 2026 cohort begins
The internship runs from April to September 2026, with interns starting at different times within this period depending on organizational needs.