The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is now accepting applications for its 2024 Economist Program (EP). This highly competitive program offers recent PhD graduates the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge and research in a real-world context, working on policies that impact the global economy. As an Economist Program participant, you’ll be part of a team that addresses key global challenges and contributes to the IMF’s mission of fostering monetary cooperation, securing financial stability, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
Program Overview
The IMF Economist Program is designed to develop future leaders of the IMF. The program lasts three years and is divided into two 18-month assignments, giving participants broad exposure to a wide range of regional and country-specific issues. Participants will work closely with country authorities, performing research and policy development that impacts the IMF’s 190 member countries.
During the program, you will gain experience in areas such as fiscal, monetary, and balance of payments issues, as well as debt and other related topics. You’ll also have access to various training programs and will be mentored by experienced IMF economists to enhance your career development.
Aim and Benefits of the Economist Program
Participants in the IMF Economist Program will:
- Apply their academic knowledge to real-world policy work that impacts 190 member countries.
- Travel to countries where they will collaborate with local authorities and work on operational tasks related to the IMF’s mission.
- Gain experience in various fields, including macroeconomics, finance, international trade, and public finance.
- Receive mentorship from seasoned IMF economists and participate in a variety of training and development programs to enhance their skills.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the IMF Economist Program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Recently completed or are expected to complete a PhD in fields such as macroeconomics, finance, monetary economics, public finance, international economics, trade, or related areas.
- Have an excellent academic record and strong analytical, quantitative, and IT skills.
- Be a national of one of the IMF’s member countries.
- Be below the age of 34 when you join the program in September 2025.
- Possess strong written and oral English skills.
Additionally, successful candidates should be motivated by contributing to the global economy and possess the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Flexibility, a willingness to travel, and proficiency in foreign languages (or the willingness to learn) are also valued traits for participants.
Interview Process
The selection process for the IMF Economist Program consists of two stages. Candidates who meet the initial criteria will be invited to participate in a preliminary interview, which may take place during university campus visits or through video. Successful candidates will then be invited to a panel interview, which will include a writing test and a review of their job market paper. The selection process will take place from October 2024 to January 2025, and offers will be extended in early February for a September 2025 start date at the IMF’s headquarters in Washington D.C.
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the 2024 IMF Economist Program is December 6, 2024.
How to Apply
If you meet the qualifications and are interested in applying, visit the IMF’s official application portal for further details and to submit your application.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Ensure that your CV and job market paper are polished and reflect your expertise in macroeconomics or related fields.
- Highlight your collaborative skills and your ability to work in an international environment.
- Be prepared to demonstrate your understanding of global economic policy issues during the interview process.
Recommendations
- Start your application process early to gather all necessary documents and recommendations.
- Consider reaching out to current or past participants of the program to gain insights on how to best prepare for the interview stages.
- Stay updated with the IMF’s latest work and publications to showcase your familiarity with their current challenges and objectives during the interview.
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