The World Bank Legal Internship Program offers law students(LLB, JD, LLM, SJD, PhD, or equivalent) the opportunity to gain hands-on experience by working with the Legal Vice Presidency (LEG) at the World Bank. The World Bank Legal Internship Program gives motivated law students the chance to gain hands-on experience at the World Bank. Interns will work closely with the Legal Vice Presidency (LEG) team, contributing to legal services and participating in events and conferences. Offered three times a year, the internship lasts up to three months at the World Bank Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and in selected country offices.
Interns assist in legal research, contribute to high-profile events, and gain exposure to the Bank’s mission in a multicultural environment. World Bank Legal Internship Program is available in spring, summer, and fall for a three-month duration. It is open to currently enrolled law students. Interns will collaborate with staff, gaining insight into the World Bank’s daily operations and contributing to its mission. The application deadline typically varies by cycle, so it’s essential to check the specific dates for each intake
Summer Internship Program:
From December 1 to December 31. The internship lasts 10-12 weeks, typically occurring between June and August, depending on the program’s needs.
Fall Internship Program
From April 1 to April 30. The internship lasts 10-12 weeks, typically occurring between September and November, depending on the program’s needs.
Spring Internship Program:
From September 1 to September 30 The internship lasts 10-12 weeks, typically occurring between March and May, depending on the program’s needs.
Institutions:
- Name: World Bank
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA
- Ranking: The World Bank is one of the leading global financial institutions, working in over 100 countries to reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity.
- Programs: Legal Internship under the Legal Vice Presidency
- Duration: Three months (available in spring, summer, and fall cycles)
Study Area:
The World Bank Legal Internship Program is designed for law students (LLB, LLM, JD, SJD, or equivalent). Interns engage in tasks related to international law, policy, and legal research, focusing on development issues.
World Bank Legal Internship Program Benefits:
- The World Bank will assist with obtaining visa documents
- Gain firsthand experience working with the World Bank’s Legal Vice Presidency.
- Participate in legal tasks and high-profile events.
- Exposure to global legal frameworks and development projects.
- Networking with senior professionals in a multicultural environment.
- Visa assistance may be available for certain interns.
Benefits Not Included:
- Medical insurance is the responsibility of the intern.
- Interns may not receive direct financial compensation unless their university or another organization sponsors them
World Bank Legal Internship Program Eligibility:
- Applicants must be enrolled in a law degree program (LLB, LLM, JD, SJD, PhD or equivalent) during the internship period.
- Must have any IBRD member state citizenship.
- Must have an excellent command of the English language.
- The World Bank prefers candidates who are proficient in a second language, particularly if it is one of the IBRD’s working languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish.
- The program encourages applications from both international and U.S.-based students equally.
- Interns may receive academic credit equivalent to the Bank’s fee schedule. Therefore, students must arrange their financial support for the duration of the internship.
- Non-U.S. citizens must obtain a valid student visa to participate in the World Bank Legal Internship Program
As an intern in the World Bank Legal Internship Program, your role will include:
- Conducting legal assignments under the guidance of supervising lawyers.
- Researching legal issues using databases, the internet, and other sources, then analyzing and summarizing findings.
- Comparing legal issues across different jurisdictions and proposing solutions.
- Participating in team projects with supervising lawyers.
- Assisting in organizing conferences and meetings.
- Completing additional tasks as requested by the supervising lawyer(s).
Required Documents:
- Resume
- Statement of Interest
- Proof of enrollment in a law degree (LLB, JD, LLM, SJD, PhD, or equivalent) and academic transcript(s).
- Short essay providing a response to a research question posed by the Legal Vice Presidency for the prevailing application period.
World Bank Legal Internship Program Application Process:
- Create an Account: Begin by registering on the World Bank’s internship portal.
- Submit Required Documents: Include your resume, statement of interest, academic transcripts, and proof of enrollment in a law degree program. A short essay may also be required.
- Choose Internship Cycle: The program is offered three times a year—spring, summer, and fall—so ensure you apply for the correct cycle.
- Apply Online: Complete the application form and submit all documents by the relevant deadline. Keep an eye on the World Bank’s official internship page for updated deadlines
Tips for Successful Application:
- Highlight any relevant legal research or experience.
- Emphasize language proficiency, especially in the Bank’s working languages.
- Ensure your application is tailored to the specific internship cycle, addressing how your skills align with the World Bank’s mission
Living Expenses:
Living expenses in Washington, D.C., where the internship is based, can be quite high. On average, interns should expect to budget for:
- Accommodation: Monthly rent in D.C. can range from $1,200 to $2,500, depending on location and type of housing.
- Food: Expect to spend around $300 to $600 monthly on groceries and eating out.
- Transportation: Public transport can cost around $100–$150 per month, with options like the metro or bus systems.
The World Bank Legal Internship Program does not provide direct financial compensation, so interns are encouraged to seek funding through their university or external organizations to cover these expenses
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This internship provides an unparalleled opportunity to work alongside legal professionals at one of the world’s leading financial institutions. It offers exposure to global legal issues and a chance to contribute to meaningful development projects. Interns gain skills that can be applied in both legal and international development fields
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I apply if I am not from a World Bank member country? No, applicants must be citizens of an IBRD member country.
- Is this internship paid? The internship is not directly compensated; however, some universities may offer financial support.
- Can I apply if I am not fluent in English? Proficiency in English is required, but additional language skills (e.g., Spanish, French) are an asset.
- Do I need to secure my visa? Yes, interns are responsible for obtaining the necessary visa to work in the U.S.
- How many internship cycles are there each year? There are three cycles: spring, summer, and fall
Official Link:
For more details and to apply, visit the World Bank Legal Internship Program page