ADB Internship Program

About the opportunity

The ADB Internship Program provides a project-oriented learning opportunity for motivated, open-minded, and self-directed graduate students to gain hands-on experience in a major international development organization. The program supports policy research and knowledge sharing with the broader academic community while helping identify future candidates for staff positions. Internships typically last from 8 to 12 weeks and are primarily based at ADB’s headquarters in Manila, Philippines, or optionally at select resident missions.

Funding and benefits

• Receive a stipend for the duration of the internship (unless falling under a special arrangement category between select schools and ADB).
• Coverage for a limited part of airfare travel costs between the internship location and the authorized point of origin.
• Hands-on work experience in a major international development organization with a multicultural environment.
• Global exposure via collaboration with professionals from over 50 countries.
• Deep insights into development finance and real-world impact through research outputs.

Who can apply?

• Be a national of an ADB member country.
• Possess an excellent command of English.
• Be enrolled in a Master's or PhD-level program from a school in an ADB member nation for the entire duration of the internship.
• Be engaged in academic study in any of the diverse fields directly related to ADB's work.
• Preferably have 2-3 years of relevant professional experience.
• Not be a close relative of ADB staff members.
• Not be a past intern of the ADB Internship Program.

Required documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Proof of Enrollment

When to apply

• Graduate students can apply by 16 March 2026 for the 2026 program cycle.
• Selections are made in March-April for interns starting in June.

How to apply

• Choose an assignment from the options listed under the “Current Opportunities” tab on the official ADB career page.
• Submit your application through the ADB Career and Employment System (ACES), along with required documents including your CV and proof of enrollment.

Additional information

• The internship duration is for a minimum of eight (8) weeks to a maximum of twelve (12) weeks.
• Interns are required to cover their accommodation, transportation, food expenses, and part of the airfare.
• It is a strict requirement to purchase comprehensive insurance coverage for the entire period of the internship prior to departure to Manila.
• As a general rule, interns are not allowed to travel during the internship assignment.