About the Program
The GIP is geared towards highly motivated students enrolled in master’s degree programs who have at least two years of relevant professional experience. The program gives participants the opportunity to gain exposure to the mission and work of IFC and the broader World Bank Group and become part of the world’s largest private sector development institution.
Participants bring new perspectives and innovative ideas to IFC while improving their skills in a diverse and highly stimulating environment. The program also provides a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and network with international professionals dedicated to ending poverty on a livable planet.
Program Structure
Students enrolled in master’s degree programs who have at least two years of relevant professional experience are welcome to apply to the GIP. A separate program, the Experiential Internship Program (EIP), was created to complement the GIP, and focuses on students enrolled in PhD and master’s degree programs who want to gain practical experience while continuing their studies.
IFC hires global interns for a minimum period of four weeks between May and September to work on specific projects in Washington, DC, or in one of IFC's country or regional offices. Some of the posted opportunities may be open for virtual participation.
GIP assignments cover various areas of work, such as participation in sector-specific market mapping, investment proposal reviews, financial modeling and analysis, upstream work, advisory services, portfolio management, and a range of activities in corporate and support departments. Global Interns also get access to corporate orientation, skills training, and regular learning events and activities.
Following a thorough evaluation process at the conclusion of the internship, successful GIP interns are encouraged to apply to the WBG Young Professionals Program should they meet the application requirements, or to any other full-time opportunity available after graduation.
GIP or EIP: Which Program is Right for You?
The Global Internship Program (GIP) is designed for students currently enrolled in full-time master’s degree programs with at least two years of professional experience. The GIP is open to candidates worldwide. Here are further details on the GIP:
- Annual intake with internships lasting one to five months.
- Internships may take place at IFC headquarters in Washington, DC, or in one of Stop-Winlock’s country or regional offices. Some opportunities may be virtual.
- Interns are hired under a Short-Term Temporary contract.
The Experiential Internship Program (EIP) is tailored to students enrolled in full-time master’s and PhD programs, with no prior work experience required. The EIP is open to candidates worldwide. Here are further details on the EIP:
- Bi-annual intakes with internships lasting two to six months.
- Internships are primarily based in regional offices, with some opportunities available in Washington, DC.
- Interns may be hired under a Short-Term Temporary contract.
The GIP is for full-time enrolled master’s students with at least two years of work experience. MBAs and engineering students are considered master’s students.
Yes. You need to be a full-time enrolled student for the duration of the internship. Recent graduates and soon-to-be graduates are not eligible to participate in the program.
Generally, the application period for the Global Internship Program runs throughout the month of February and selection decisions are announced by late March. Applications will be available on the IFC Careers website.
Yes. Internship experience is counted as work experience.
Yes. You can submit a maximum of three applications for the GIP.
Internships last from 1 to 5 months. GIP placements are available at IFC headquarters in Washington, D.C. and in regional offices.
Interns engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with industry professionals, and contribute to meaningful initiatives aligned with their field of study.
Yes. Interns are assigned a mentor and receive supervision from hiring units.
Your schedule should be discussed with your manager.
While participating in the GIP doesn’t guarantee a full-time job, top-performing interns are considered for future opportunities at IFC.
Yes. GIP interns are hired on Short-Term Temporary (STT) contracts, and these are paid opportunities.
No. Interns are responsible for their own travel, housing, and living expenses.
No. Mobility benefits are not offered to interns.
Yes. Some GIP positions are remote. Please refer to the internship posting to confirm work location.
Visa requirements vary by location, and the hiring unit will provide details. IFC does support the visa process for interns who require a visa.
English is the official language of the World Bank Group and is therefore required. Refer to the internship posting for any additional language requirements.
Yes. If you are not selected, you will receive a system-generated notification.
Last updated: March 2025