Hey future global leaders! Ever dreamt of making a real impact on the world, tackling major challenges like poverty and climate change? Well, buckle up, because the World Bank Group (WBG) Young Professionals Program (YPP) for 2026 is your golden ticket! While it’s not a traditional study bursary, this incredible program is a pathway to a dream career, offering intensive development and a chance to work with one of the world’s most influential organisations. Think of it as a super-charged professional development opportunity that kickstarts your journey at the World Bank, MIGA, or IFC.
The WBG YPP isn’t just a job; it’s a prestigious two-year program designed to bring the brightest young minds from around the globe into the World Bank Group. You’ll gain hands-on experience in technical and managerial roles, receive top-tier training, mentorship, and work alongside experts dedicated to creating a world free of poverty. After your two years, there’s a possibility of a five-year renewable contract, setting you up for a truly impactful career. This program specifically targets individuals with advanced degrees and some professional experience, preparing you for leadership roles within the institution.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered for this highly competitive program, you’ll need to meet some specific criteria. Remember, this is about finding top talent!
- You must hold at least a Master’s degree (or equivalent) and have 2 to 6 years of relevant professional working experience.
- You need to be a national of a World Bank Group member country (South Africa is one, so that’s a check!).
- Your Master’s degree (or higher qualification) must be completed before September 1, 2026. If you’re doing a doctorate, your written work must be substantially complete and submitted before September 1, 2026.
- You must have an excellent command of spoken and written English. Bonus points if you’re fluent in other languages too!
- You cannot currently be a World Bank Group staff member, or fall under the employment eligibility policy from the time of application.
- If you’re a former intern (JPA or intern whose appointment ends by September 30, 2025), you’re welcome to apply!
What Does It Cover?
This program is a fully-fledged career opportunity, not just a funding scheme. Here’s what you can expect if you’re selected:
- Full-time Employment: You’ll start with a two-year term contract as a mid-career staff member (GF level), with the potential for a five-year renewable contract based on your performance.
- Structured Development: Access to the YP Academy, offering technical training, language programs, negotiation skills, business development, and leadership training.
- Mentorship & Coaching: Receive one-on-one coaching and connect with mentors to guide your career path.
- Global Exposure: You could be based in Washington, DC, or any of the World Bank Group country offices worldwide, and must be prepared to relocate accordingly.
- Visa Eligibility: You might be eligible for a G-type visa for yourself and your dependents, making international relocation smoother.
How to Apply?
Ready to kickstart your global career? Here’s how to submit your application and what to keep in mind:
- Application Period: The portal opens on September 1, 2025, and closes promptly on September 30, 2025, at 11:59 UTC. Make sure you don’t miss this window – late applications won’t be considered!
- Documents Needed: Have these ready to upload when you apply:
- Your CV/resume (aim for 1 page, max 2 pages).
- A clear scan of your passport photo page (to help confirm your birth date and primary nationality).
- Official transcript(s) or enrollment letter(s) for your post-graduate degrees, showing (expected) completion dates.
- Tailor Your Application: Ensure your application clearly highlights how your skills, education, and experience align with the specific work program you’re applying for.
- Selection Timeline: If you’re successful, expect invitations for interviews and assessments between December 2025 and January 2026. Selected candidates will typically be informed in late January 2026, with full-time employment starting on September 1, 2026.
For more detailed information and to access the application portal, visit the official World Bank Group Young Professionals Program webpage:
Visit the Official World Bank Group YPP Webpage
This is an incredible opportunity to launch a career with global impact. If you have the passion, qualifications, and drive to make a difference, don’t let this chance slip away! Apply for the World Bank Group Young Professionals Program 2026 Bursary now and keep exploring more life-changing opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
