Application Deadline: October 31, 2025
Applications are now open for the 2026 World Bank ICSID Internship Program. The World Bank ICSID offers internship opportunities to highly motivated students enrolled in a graduate degree program. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the world’s leading institution devoted to the settlement of international investment disputes.
The internship program provides students with an interest in international investment dispute settlement and international investment law with an in-depth understanding of ICSID’s work, enhances their academic and career goals, and offers a chance to bring innovative ideas and research experience to advance ICSID’s mission. To this end, the Centre is looking for enthusiastic and energetic candidates who can work effectively in a team-based environment.
The Internship
Up to six internships are offered every four months, for a minimum period of 12 weeks and a minimum of 10 hours of work per week. The internship periods are September-December, January-April and May-August. The internships take place at the seat of the Centre in Washington, D.C. (unless restrictions apply due to COVID).
Interns will not be remunerated but will instead receive academic credit for their work upon successful completion of the internship or be sponsored by the university in which s/he is enrolled.
Eligibility
Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a graduate program. They must also be able to provide written confirmation stating that they will either: (i) obtain academic credit for at least one term/semester in a course of study; or (ii) will be provided with a stipend by their university for the duration of the internship.
Candidates must further have or be able to obtain an F1 or G4 visa, or be U.S. citizens or residents (Green Card holders), and be able to cover the costs of travel, accommodation and living expenses in Washington, D.C. In addition, ICSID recommends that selected interns procure a medical insurance for the period of the internship.
Finally, candidates must satisfy the requirements of their university for an internship (as these may vary, students are encouraged to seek confirmation from the university that they are eligible for a particular internship period prior to applying).
Qualifications
Interns are selected on a competitive basis and must meet the following minimum requirements:
- A demonstrated interest and knowledge of investor-State dispute settlement and international investment law.
- Rising 3L, LLM or Ph.D. Student.
- Fluency in English and preferably in at least one of the other two official languages of ICSID (i.e., French and Spanish).
- Ability to conduct research on a range of issues in the fields of arbitration and investment law.
- Strong writing and legal drafting skills.
The Work
Interns will be assigned to a case management team or the institutional team. Under the supervision of experienced ICSID Counsel, they will assist in the administration of cases and with institutional projects.
Administration of cases
Case-related tasks may include drafting working papers, carrying out research, assisting with the drafting of case correspondence, making logistical arrangements for hearings, and attending hearings with permission from the parties and the tribunal.
Institutional Matters
Interns will also contribute with research on institutional matters under the supervision of the ICSID Secretary-General and Deputy Secretaries-General.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the World Bank ICSID Internship Program
