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Ivy Muthoni
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International Programs

World Bank Group Young Professionals Program -updated

Interested in the World Group Young Professionals Program? Here’s what you need to know.

World Bank Group is an international organization that aims to create a world free of poverty through partnership with multilateral organizations, private sector and civil society.

The World Bank Group is made up of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), International Development Association (IDA), International Finance Corporation (IFC), Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA) and International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID)

WBG Young Professionals Program

  • It’s a 2-year program structured in three 8months rotations – a country-based assignment, a cross institutional assignment and a cross functional assignment. The program is followed by a performance based 5-year renewable contract.
  • Successful candidates receive continuous leadership and technical training by top experts 
  • Deep exposure to senior and regional leadership
  • Individualized mentorship and coaching throughout the program

Qualifications for YPP

  • Completed Master’s or PhD at application
  • Work Experience: 2 – 6 years professional experience
  •  Relevant expertise – demonstrated alignment with chosen work program
  • Fluent in English & fluency in a second language preferred (Arabic, Portuguese, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish).
  • Nationality: Must be a citizen of a World Bank Group member country
  • Employment Status: Must not be a current WBG employee
  • Family rule: No close relatives employed by WBG
  • Values: strong commitment to WBG’s mission and values.

YPP has 2 tracks [ Operational and Specialized Functions]

YPP Tracks
Application Process

  • Application
  • Longlist (top 10% of applicants) 
  • Assessment (virtual interviews, leadership and technical assessments)
  • Interview (Panel Interview and case studies)
  • Selection (background check and offers sent)
  • Entrance (New Cohort starts in Washington DC)

Interview tips

  1. Use your context on development challenges. Based on your lived experience, you can provide insights on the development challenges in your region.
  2. Show your personality

You can join WBG through

 Programs and internships , Consultancies and Staff appointment

The World Bank has 10 grade levels, which are organized into three groups:

  • Administrative Jobs (GA–GD) generally require a Bachelor’s degree.
  • Professional & Technical Jobs (GE-GH) usually require a Master’s or PhD.
  • Managerial Jobs (GH–GJ) require experience managing teams, work programs, and budgets.

 WBG is currently recruiting for the YPP 2026 cohort. Apply by 30th September 2025