The World Bank Young Professionals Program (WB YPP) 2026 is one of the most prestigious and fully funded global career opportunities for early-career professionals passionate about international development. This highly competitive program opens doors for young talent worldwide to contribute towards ending poverty and promoting shared prosperity on a livable planet.

Basic Information About the WB YPP 2026

Application Deadline: September 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC
Program Start Date: September 1, 2026
Program Duration: Initial 2-year term contract, with the possibility of renewal for 5 years based on performance
Work Locations: Washington, DC, or any World Bank Group country office worldwide
Eligible Candidates: Nationals of World Bank Group member countries possessing a master’s degree with relevant work experience

University/Institution Details

The WB YPP is managed by the World Bank Group, which is a unique global partnership of five institutions: the World Bank (IBRD and IDA), IFC, MIGA, and ICSID. The World Bank Group operates in over 130 countries, employing professionals from more than 170 nationalities.

Study Areas and Available Program Tracks

YPs are recruited into two main career tracks based on technical expertise:

Operations Track: Focuses on sectors like economic development, social development, environmental and natural resource management, finance, and urban planning.
Specialized Functions Track: Includes areas such as regional integration, risk management, and specialized technical services.

Relevant study fields include economics, finance, public health, education, social sciences, engineering, urban planning, natural resource management, and other development-related disciplines aligned with World Bank operations.

World Bank Young Professionals Program Benefits

The WB YPP offers a fully funded international career opportunity with multiple benefits:

Competitive salary averaging around $105,275 USD annually (net)
Additional non-salary benefits worth approximately $58,865 USD per year, including medical insurance, life and invalidity insurance, pension contributions, and severance benefits
5 Year Job Contract
Benefits include health, life, and accident insurance, a pension plan, and possible relocation and mobility benefits depending on WBG guidelines.
Relocation cost covered.
Resettlement benefits.
You also might be eligible for a G-type visa for you and your dependents.
Structured leadership development through the YP Academy including technical training, language courses, negotiation skills, and leadership mentoring
Opportunities for global mobility and assignments across World Bank country offices worldwide
Networking and mentorship with senior leaders in global development

Benefits Not Included

The program does not cover certain personal expenses unrelated to work, such as personal travel beyond official relocation, income tax obligations which the employee is responsible for, or separate visa processing fees.

Eligibility Criteria for World Bank Young Professionals Program

To apply for the WB YPP 2026, candidates must:

Master’s degree + 2–6 years professional experience.
Must be a citizen of a World Bank Group member country.
Master’s (or higher) completed before Sept 1, 2026.
- Ongoing doctoral research may count as experience if substantially complete by Sept 1, 2026.
Strong English skills (other languages are a plus).
Not currently a WBG staff member (term, open, ST, ET).
Eligible if you are a JPA or former intern (internship must end by Sept 30, 2025).
Be ready to start full-time employment with the World Bank on the program start date (no deferred entry)

Contract Start & Terms

Full-time start: Sept 1, 2026 (no deferrals).
2-year contract (GF level) → possible 5-year renewable contract based on performance.
G-type visa may be provided for you + dependents.
Work location: Washington, DC or any WBG office worldwide (must be willing to relocate).

Required Documents for Application

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

Updated CV or Resume (ideally 1-2 pages)
Passport photo page to confirm identity and nationality
Academic transcripts or enrollment letters confirming postgraduate degree and completion dates
Supporting documents or proof of professional work experience
Additional application materials specified on the World Bank online portal

World Bank Young Professionals Program Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Prepare documents and identify your preferred Work Program track.
Submit your application online between September 1 and September 30, 2025.
Application review and shortlisting: Candidates demonstrating technical skills and leadership potential will be shortlisted.
Digital interview (HireVue) and online technical test (for certain tracks like IFC/MIGA).
Assessment Center with competency-based tasks.
Final panel interview with World Bank Group senior staff.
Offer and contract: Successful candidates receive a 2-year term contract starting September 1, 2026.

Tips for a Successful Application

Tailor your application to the World Bank’s development priorities and the specific work stream you choose.
Demonstrate a balance of technical depth, operational knowledge, and leadership qualities.
Highlight relevant international experience and commitment to development goals.
Prepare rigorously for the assessment center and interviews, focusing on competency-based and sector-specific questions.
Network with current or former World Bank YPs to gain insider insights.

Monthly Living Expenses for International Students/Professionals (in USD)

While salaries are competitive and benefits comprehensive, living expenses vary by location. For example:

Washington, DC: Approx. $3,000 – $4,000 USD/month (housing, utilities, food, transport)
Other country offices: Costs can be significantly lower depending on the country, often ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 USD/month

The program provides relocation support, but budgeting for personal living costs is advisable.

Why Choose This Scholarship? Top 5 Reasons

Global Career Launchpad: Opportunities to work on world-changing development projects across the globe.
Comprehensive Benefits Package: Competitive salary, health insurance, pension, and relocation support.
Structured Leadership Development: Access to personalized mentoring, technical training, and global mobility.
Network and Exposure: Be part of a vibrant, diverse community impacting global poverty reduction and sustainable development.
Career Growth Potential: Possibility to transition from the initial two-year contract to longer-term positions within the World Bank Group.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the deadline to apply for the WB YPP 2026?
A: September 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM UTC.

Q: What degree is required?
A: A master’s degree completed by September 1, 2026, or higher qualification in a relevant field.

Q: Can current World Bank staff apply?
A: No, current staff or contractors are not eligible.

Q: Where will I be located?
A: Either Washington, DC, or a World Bank Group country office based on organizational needs.

Q: Is the program fully funded?
A: Yes, including salary, benefits, relocation, and family support.

Official Link:

The World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026 represents an unparalleled opportunity for driven, skilled young professionals eager to make a global impact. Interested candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications early and showcase both their technical expertise and passion for development.

World Bank Young Professionals Program 2026 (WB YPP) – Full Guide & How to Apply