IMF Economist Program 2027 for recent PhD graduates

The IMF Economist Program is a three-year, highly selective program for recent PhD graduates to work on macroeconomic policy, country work, and research at IMF headquarters in Washington, D.C. Participants engage in policy analysis, country engagement, and analytical research with potential placement into IMF departments following successful completion. The program is designed for individuals who have recently completed a PhD or are within one year of completion and who are under 34 at program start.

Three-year program with two departmental assignments; potential placement in IMF departments based on performance; professional work experience in macroeconomics, policy analysis, and research.

Recent PhD graduates or candidates within one year of completing a PhD in macroeconomics or a related field; under 34 years old at the start of the program; IMF member country citizenship; strong English skills; analytical, quantitative, and computer skills.

Applications are submitted through the IMF careers portal; candidate shortlisting followed by interviews and assessments as part of a multi-step evaluation.