Work for the IMF. Work for the World.
Work on real research. In one summer.
The Fund Internship Program (FIP) offers PhD students in economics an outstanding opportunity to contribute to the work of one of the world's leading international financial institutions.
As a Fund intern, you'll apply your economic research skills to real-world policy questions that matter to the IMF's 191 member countries. You'll work alongside experienced IMF economists, gain hands-on research experience, strengthen your analytical skills, and build a professional network in a uniquely international environment. Many interns present their findings to IMF staff, and some see their work published internally.
If you're passionate about macroeconomics, international policy, and research that can make a global impact, the Fund Internship Program could be your next step.
About the Program
Over 10 to 12 weeks, you'll contribute to an individual research or project assignment while working alongside experienced IMF staff at IMF Headquarters in Washington, D.C. The internship provides practical experience, exposure to the IMF's work, and the opportunity to apply your academic knowledge to real-world policy and operational challenges.
To learn more about the Fund Internship Program and hear from previous interns, visit the Fund Internship Program page on IMF Careers.
Eligibility
To be considered for the 2027 Fund Internship Program - Economists, you must:
- Be within one to two years of completing a PhD in macroeconomics or a related field.
- Be enrolled as a student at the time of the internship and return to your academic studies afterward.
- Be under the age of 32 when the internship begins in June 2027.
- Demonstrate excellent written and spoken English.
- Possess strong analytical, quantitative, and computer skills.
Application Requirements
As part of your online application, you must complete the technical questionnaire and upload the following documents:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
- Statement of Interest or Cover Letter explaining your motivation for applying to the IMF
- Evidence of current student status and academic performance, including either:
- A recent transcript from your current university program, or
- A letter from your university confirming active enrollment and recent grades.
Incomplete applications will not be considered. Only candidates selected for further consideration will be contacted by a member of the FIP recruitment team. Previous participants in the Fund Internship Program are not eligible and should not reapply.
Frequently Asked QuestionsIs the internship paid?
Yes. The Fund Internship Program is a full-time, paid internship requiring 40 hours of work per week.
How long is the internship?
Internships last between 10 and 12 weeks.
When do internships begin?
The start of 2027 internship is June 7, 2027 (ending August 27, 2027).
What visa support does the IMF provide?
If you are not a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise authorized to work in the United States, you will require a G4 visa. The IMF will provide the documentation needed to support your visa application with U.S. authorities.
Does the IMF provide housing?
No. Interns are responsible for arranging and securing their own housing accommodation. Resources and guidance may be shared with selected interns during the onboarding process.
Will I be notified when my application is received?
Yes. You will receive an automated confirmation after submitting your application. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further consideration.
Are there exceptions to the age limit?
The only exception is for time spent in mandatory military service.
Department:
Hiring For:
A09The IMF is guided by the principle that the employment, classification, promotion, and assignment of staff shall be made without discrimination against any person. We welcome requests for reasonable accommodations for disabilities during the selection process. Information on how to request accommodations will be provided during the application process.
Skills Required
- Be within one to two years of completing a PhD in macroeconomics or a related field
- Be enrolled as a student during the internship and return to academic studies afterward
- Be under age 32 when the internship begins in June 2027
- Excellent written and spoken English
- Strong analytical, quantitative, and computer skills
- Complete the technical questionnaire
- Submit a curriculum vitae or resume
- Submit a statement of interest or cover letter
- Submit evidence of current student status and academic performance
- Not have previously participated in the Fund Internship Program
What We Do
The International Monetary Fund has a key position in promoting the health of the world economy. Established in 1944 as a part of the United Nations system, the IMF's primary purpose is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system—the system of exchange rates and international payments that enables countries and their citizens to buy goods and services from each other. This is essential for sustainable economic growth and rising living standards. To maintain stability and prevent crises in the international monetary system, the IMF conducts surveillance of national, regional, and global economic and financial developments. It provides advice to its 190 member countries, encouraging them to adopt policies that foster economic stability, reduce their vulnerability to economic and financial crises, and raise living standards. The IMF also serves as a forum where its global membership can discuss the national, regional, and global consequences of their policies. The IMF makes financing temporarily available to member countries to help them address balance of payments problems—that is, when they find themselves short of foreign exchange to meet their payments to other countries. Finally, the IMF provides countries with training to help them build the expertise and institutions they need for economic stability and growth. Supporting all of these activities is the institution's work in economic research and statistics
