Economist Program
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Program overview
- The Economist Program (EP) is a three-year rotational program for PhD economists offered by the IMF.
- Purpose: Gain hands-on experience across the IMF’s work—from country missions to policy research—and apply research and analytical skills to real-world challenges affecting the IMF’s 191 member countries.
- Outcome: Continued career as an IMF economist.
Core activities and rotations
- Rotations across departments contributing to:
- Country surveillance and country programs (including IMF Article IV consultations).
- Policy analysis and advice on fiscal, monetary, financial, debt, and external sector issues.
- Research and analytical work informing flagship publications and policy decisions.
Eligibility and candidate profile
- Background: Recent PhD in economics or related field (or within one year of completion).
- Age restriction: Under 34 at the time of entry.
- Research skills: Strong quantitative and analytical ability.
- Language skills: Fluent English; additional IMF languages are an asset.
Annual recruitment cycle (Economist Program Cycle)
- September: Applications open; on-campus and online/virtual preliminary interviews begin.
- December: Applications close.
- December-January: Panel interviews and assessments in HQ.
- February: Offers extended.
- September: Program starts.
Selection process (assessed competencies and steps)
- Assessed competencies: Analytical skills, judgment, communication, and ability to apply economic thinking to real-world challenges.
- Step 1: Participate in preliminary interview (high level overview of research + discussion).
- Step 2: Submission of research paper, transcript, and three academic references.
- Step 3: Panel interview and written assessment.
- Step 4: Selection and offer.
Program experience and alumni outcomes
- The EP provides a well-rounded exposure to the IMF’s work and a foundation for a long-term career as an economist.
- Alumni pathways: Continue working across surveillance, research, and policy at the IMF and beyond.
- Participant testimonials:
- “The EP gave me the opportunity to apply my research to economic policy questions that matter to countries around the world.” — Julia Faltermeier, EP Cohort 2018
- "The rotations broadened my perspective and skills. Every assignment has been challenging, rewarding, and fun.” — Sakai Ando, EP Cohort 2018
- “At the IMF, I work with outstanding colleagues on issues that shape the global economy. The Fund offers a distinctive environment for growth as an economist, making the experience both meaningful and transformative.” — Beatrice Sagna, EP Cohort 2023
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