The International Monetary Fund (IMF) Economist Program is an incredible opportunity for young economists to make a real difference on the global stage.
This three-year program is designed for those who want to bring fresh perspectives and cutting-edge economic thought to tackle pressing global challenges.
As part of the program, you’ll work closely with country authorities to drive meaningful change in areas like:
- Fostering global monetary cooperation
- Securing financial stability
- Facilitating international trade
- Promoting sustainable economic growth
- Reducing poverty worldwide.
Opportunity Summary
- Program: IMF Economist Program 2025
- Organization: International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA
- Duration: 3 years
- Application Deadline: December 6, 2024
- Program Start Date: September 8, 2025
About the IMF Economist Program
The IMF Economist Program offers a well-rounded experience of the IMF’s work and provides a unique foundation for a thought-provoking and fulfilling career as an economist.
During the three-year program, participants rotate through two departmental assignments, joining economic teams working on:
- Regional and country-specific surveillance
- Fiscal, monetary, balance of payments, and debt issues
- Policy development
- Research
- Capacity development and teaching
From the start, Economist Program participants are given real responsibilities as an IMF economist.
The program aims to provide exciting and impactful work that will inspire participants to build long-term careers at the IMF.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the IMF Economist Program, applicants must:
- Be a national of an IMF member country
- Be under 34 years old at entry to the program on September 8, 2025
- Have recently completed or be expected to complete a PhD within a year of joining the IMF, in fields such as:
- Macroeconomics
- Finance
- Public finance
- Monetary economics
- International economics
- Trade
- Poverty issues
- Macro-climate
- Political economy
- Econometrics
- Demonstrate a sound understanding of macroeconomics
- Possess an excellent academic record
- Have proven analytical, quantitative, and IT skills
- Have strong written and oral English skills
Who Should Apply
The IMF is looking for young economists who:
- Want to have influence on the global stage
- Can bring the latest economic thought and multidisciplinary approaches
- Are passionate about addressing key global economic challenges
- Demonstrate excellent academic achievement
- Have strong research experience and publications
- Possess professional experience in relevant fields
- Are proficient in multiple languages (not required but useful)
- Excel in analytical and problem-solving skills
Benefits of the Economist Program
Participants in the IMF Economist Program can expect:
- Hands-on exposure to a cross-section of IMF work
- Opportunity to apply research and analytical skills to essential global policy work
- Ability to contribute to promoting global monetary cooperation and reducing poverty
- Collaboration on sustainable economic development initiatives
- Influence on global economic policy and decision-making
- Lifelong connection to the IMF’s global network
- Access to exclusive alumni events and resources
- Opportunities for continued professional development and future collaboration
How to Apply
The application process for the 2025 IMF Economist Program opens in late September 2024, with a notice on the IMF Career Site.
To apply:
- Create an account on IMF’s online application portal
- Fill out the application form
- Upload required documents, including:CV
- Personal statement (500-750 words)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two letters of recommendation
- Language proficiency test results (if applicable)
- Submit your completed application well before the deadline
Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed between October 2024 and January 2025.
The selection process includes:
- A 30-40 minute preliminary interview
- Submission of most recent university transcript, three academic references, and a research paper
- An in-person panel interview with senior IMF economists
- A 40-minute online psychometric assessment
- A 90-minute written exam
Final selections are made by an internal committee of senior IMF staff.
Offers are sent out in February, with the program starting the following September.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of being selected for the IMF Economist Program:
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria
- Showcase your research experience and publications
- Demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Submit your application well before the deadline
- Ensure your application is complete and accurate
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the 2025 IMF Economist Program is December 6, 2024. Mark your calendars and start preparing your application materials in advance.
Click here to apply to the 2025 IMF Economist Program.
Conclusion
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to jumpstart your career as an economist and make a real impact on the global stage.
The IMF Economist Program provides unparalleled exposure, responsibility, and professional development.
If you have the passion, skills, and drive to tackle the world’s most pressing economic challenges, apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling and impactful career at the International Monetary Fund.
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