Archive · 14 Sep 2026
ADB Young Professionals Programme Opens 2026 Applications
The Asian Development Bank has a program for young professionals who want to work in international development.
Applicants must be 32 or younger and come from an ADB member country.
They also need a university degree and relevant work experience, although a PhD may replace that experience.
Successful applicants first work in Manila for 18 months.
They then move to another area of the bank to gain broader experience.
The program includes mentoring and opportunities to work on projects involving areas such as climate, infrastructure, health, and finance.
The first job contract lasts three years and can sometimes be extended.
People must submit a CV and recent university transcript by September 30, 2026.
Pay and benefits include market-aligned compensation, insurance, leave, and possible housing or education allowances.
The ADB Young Professionals Programme targets professionals aged 32 or younger from ADB member countries.
Applicants need a university degree, at least three years of relevant experience, and strong English skills; a PhD may replace work experience.
Participants begin with an 18-month Manila assignment, followed by a rotation in another area of the bank.
The initial contract lasts three years and may be renewed for up to two additional years, but does not guarantee permanent employment.
Applications require a CV and latest university transcript and must be submitted through the ADB Current Opportunities portal by September 30, 2026.
- Who
- The Asian Development Bank and eligible professionals aged 32 or younger from ADB member countries.
- What
- The ADB Young Professionals Programme is accepting applications for a structured early-career development and employment program.
- When
- Applications are due September 30, 2026; panel interviews are scheduled between December and February, during Q1 2027 for the current cycle.
- Where
- The initial assignment is at the ADB headquarters in Manila, with relocation required for selected candidates.
- Why
- The program is designed to develop future organizational leaders through operational work, rotations, mentoring, and exposure to development activities.
- Age limit
- Applicants must be 32 years old or younger.
- Nationality
- Applicants must be nationals of an ADB member country.
- Education
- A first-level university degree with a strong academic record is required; a postgraduate degree is preferred.
- Experience
- At least three years of relevant professional experience is required, although a PhD may substitute for it.
- Initial assignment
- The first posting lasts 18 months at ADB headquarters in Manila.
- Contract
- The initial appointment is a three-year fixed-term contract, renewable for up to two additional years.
- Application deadline
- September 30, 2026.
- Compensation
- Market-aligned pay, benefits, insurance, retirement provisions, paid leave, and applicable allowances are offered.