The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has officially announced the commencement of its Summer Internship Program (SIP) 2026, offering a premier opportunity for students across the country to gain exposure to central banking. The six-week program is scheduled to take place from June 29 to August 07, 2026, at the SBP headquarters in Karachi. As one of the most sought-after internships in the financial sector, the SIP aims to provide students with a deep dive into economic policy, financial stability, and the operational framework of Pakistan’s regulator.
Eligibility Criteria and Academic Requirements
To ensure a high-caliber cohort, the SBP has set specific academic benchmarks. The program is open to Pakistani and AJK nationals who are currently enrolled in a Master’s degree or have completed at least two years of a four-year Bachelor’s program. The bank is looking for students from a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Economics and Finance
- Business and Public Administration
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Information Systems and Technology
- Media Sciences and Human Resources
Applicants must possess a strong academic record, maintaining a minimum of 70% marks (in percentage systems) or a CGPA of 3.00 out of 4.00. It is important to note that students awaiting results or those who have already graduated are not eligible for this cycle.
Application Process and Crucial Deadlines
Aspiring interns must navigate a strictly online application process. The last date to submit applications is March 02, 2026. Prospective candidates are advised to visit the official SBP career portal to complete their profiles. Following the submission phase, the bank will conduct a shortlisting process based on academic merit and departmental requirements.
Successful shortlisted candidates will be notified by March 27, 2026. Upon notification, they will be required to submit attested documents, including transcripts, CNIC/NICOP, and a domicile certificate. The SBP emphasizes that any misinformation provided during the application stages will result in immediate disqualification.
A Gateway to Professional Growth
While the internship is based in Karachi, it attracts talent from all provinces. Though the bank does not provide travel or accommodation allowances, the experience is considered invaluable for those eyeing a career in the State Bank Officers Training Scheme (SBOTS). Interns will be embedded within various departments, ranging from Monetary Policy to Banking Supervision, allowing them to apply their theoretical knowledge to real-world economic challenges.
