Applications for the first batch of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) 2024-2025 internship program is now open. The Internship Program provides a project-focused learning opportunity twice a year for graduate scholars to acquire experience through research assignments based on ADB’s current operational needs.

ADB welcomes inspired, open-minded, and self-directed individuals from its member countries, including Afghanistan, to apply for this great opportunity.

Key Details

Application Period:

• 1st batch:  (1st – 31st August 2025)
  • Onboard: January 2026 onwards
• 2nd batch: 1 December 2025 to 31 January 2026
  • • • Onboard: June 2026 onwards

Awarding Institution: Asian Development Bank (ADB) 

Duration of Internship: 8 to 11 Weeks

Location: Different Countries

Benefits of the ADB Internship Program

Asian Development Bank (ADB) provides the following stipends and costs for all interns during their stay:

• Accommodation
• Transportation
• Food expenses
• Part of the airfare

Furthermore, the ADB Internship Program offers the opportunity for the interns to:

• Work in a major international development organization
• Work with experienced and skilled professionals from over 50 different countries
• Gain a profound understanding of development finance and the ADB’s work impacts
• Contribute to ADB’s business through research outputs.

Eligibility Criteria

Internship applicants must fulfill the following requirements to be eligible for the ADB Internship Program:

• Hold enrolment in a Master’s- or PhD-level program at a school in one of the ADB member countries, both before and after the internship assignment
• Be involved in academic study in a field directly linked to ADB’s work
• Be a citizen of one of ADB’s members
• Have excellent proficiency in English
• Have professional experience that is relevant to the assignment.

Selection Process

ADB assesses applications based on the following points:

• Eligibilities criteria set above
• The relevance of the scholarly study and work experience
• The level of passion and motivation to contribute to development work
• Institutional representation, gender, and nationality balance
• Only shortlisted candidates will receive a call.

Current Available Opportunities in Asian Development Bank HQ

Please choose from these opportunities and check all details before applying:

Source: Asian Development Bank (ADB) Website

How to Apply for the ADB Internship Program?

Eligible applicants apply online through the ADB Career and Employment System (ACES).

Apply Now

To apply, please follow these instructions:

• Choose your assignment of choice
• Prepare your CVs and answer the essay questions on the application page.
• Upload all documents (CV and essay) to ACES to complete the application.

Note: To avoid errors in submission, applicants should not wait till the last day of the application period to submit their internship applications. Grab this chance SOON!

Check the Frequently asked questions about ADB internships

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the purpose of the internship program?
   The ADB Internship Program aims to share knowledge with external partners and identify potential future staff.
2. What is the duration of the internship?
   Internships last from 8 to 11 weeks.
3. Can students apply directly to ADB?
   Yes, students can apply directly online through the ADB Career and Employment System (ACES) They do not have to be nominated by their schools. Their schools are no longer required to register with ADB.
4. Can students directly inquire from ADB?
   Yes, students can send inquiries to ADB via email adbintern@adb.org .
5. Is there an internship opportunity in ADB for undergraduate students?
   No, only postgraduate students are eligible.
6. What is the procedure for applying to ADB Internships?
   Detailed guidelines and processes are available on the ADB website.
7. When is the deadline for submission of the application?
   Deadlines are specified in the internship postings on the ADB site. This year,  it is August 31, 2024
8. Can I apply for an ADB Internship even if I am not a national of any of its members but enrolled in a school in one of the ADB members?
   Only nationals of ADB member countries can apply.
9. Can I apply for an internship even if I have a relative in ADB?
   Applications from close relatives of ADB staff are not accepted.
10. I am a spouse of an ADB International staff. Can I apply?
    Eligible spouses of ADB international staff may apply.
11. Do I get paid for ADB’s internships?
    Interns receive a stipend, except under special arrangements with certain schools.
12. What are the expenses expected during the internship?
    Interns cover accommodation, transportation, food, and part of the airfare.
13. Does ADB assist interns with airfare expenses?
    ADB provides limited airfare support for necessary travel.
14. I am interested in internships at one of the Resident Missions, what shall I do? Most internships are at ADB headquarters, but some are available at Resident Missions.
15. How do I know if I am selected?
    Candidates are notified through the application system and email.
16. Do I get to travel during my internship assignment?
    Interns typically are not allowed to travel during assignments.
17. My nationality requires me to apply for a visa. Will ADB apply for my visa?
    ADB assists with visa applications for Manila-based internships.
18. What are the working hours?
    Regular hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with a one-hour lunch break.
19. Can a past intern apply for another internship with ADB?
    Past interns cannot reapply.
20. Can I get employment with ADB after completing the internship?
    Completing an internship does not guarantee employment, but former interns can apply for jobs after graduation.

Read more about the ADB Internship Program on the Asian Development Bank Website.

Also, check these opportunities:

OECD Internship Programme for Currently Enrolled University Students in Various Fields

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Research Internship Program in Japan

UNESCO Internship Program for International Students 2025