RBI Research Internship Scheme 2025: A Golden Opportunity for Future Economists and Policy Leaders

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced an exceptional opportunity for young minds through its Research Internship Scheme—a program crafted to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world economic policymaking. Designed for graduates and postgraduates with strong analytical and quantitative skills, this internship offers first-hand exposure to central banking, macroeconomic research, and financial policy analysis.

At a time when India is navigating post-pandemic recovery, digital transformation, inflation management, and global uncertainties, the RBI aims to mentor young scholars who can contribute innovative ideas and research-based solutions. This six-month paid internship (extendable up to two years) is not just a learning platform—it is a launchpad for careers in public policy, finance, data analytics, research, and academia.


Why This Internship Matters?

Globally, central banks face complex challenges like financial instability, climate-related risks, digital currencies, and fintech regulations. In India, the RBI stands at the heart of these issues—managing inflation, monetary policy, and financial stability. To support this work, the RBI is building a talent pool of young researchers who can apply theoretical knowledge to practical policy decisions.

As stated officially by the RBI, this internship enables selected candidates to “work on cutting-edge research in central banking and policy formulation.”

Every year, up to 20 interns are selected, ensuring high-quality mentorship and focused learning. The program has gained even more importance in 2025, as India progresses towards digital currency, green finance, and sustainable development goals.


Who Can Apply? – Eligibility and Academic Background

The scheme is open to recent graduates and postgraduates—no prior work experience is required. Students aiming for Ph.D. programs, research institutions, think tanks, or policy careers will find it especially valuable.

Department-wise Eligibility:

Department    Required Qualification

DEPR (Department of Economic & Policy Research)    Postgraduate in Economics, Finance, Banking, or MBA (Finance); or B.Tech/B.E. in quantitative fields
DSIM (Department of Statistics & Information Management)    Postgraduate in Statistics, Econometrics, Data Science or allied fields
FSD (Financial Stability Department)    Master’s in Economics, Finance, Risk Management, or specialized MBA
ID (International Department)    Background in International Finance, Trade, Economics, or International Relations


Preferred Skills:

Strong command of R, Stata, Python, MATLAB, or Tableau

Knowledge of econometrics, machine learning, data handling, big data analysis

Excellent research aptitude and analytical thinking


Internship Duration, Location & Stipend

Feature    Details

Duration    6 months (extendable every 6 months, up to 2 years)
Location    RBI Central Office, Mumbai
Stipend    ₹45,000 per month
Leave    12 days for every 6 months
Accommodation    Not provided by RBI
Confidentiality    Interns must sign a secrecy agreement


Interns get dedicated workspace, access to RBI databases, research libraries, high-speed internet, and mentoring from RBI economists and statisticians.


Application Process – Step-by-Step Guide

You can apply twice a year for the internship starting January 1 or July 1.

Application Window:

For January Batch: July to November (previous year)

For July Batch: January to May


Documents Required:

✅ Updated CV (Curriculum Vitae)
✅ Statement of Purpose (SOP) aligned with specific RBI department
✅ Academic transcripts & recommendation letters
✅ Filled application form from RBI website

Email Submission (Department-wise):

Department    Email Address

DEPR    deprinterns@rbi.org.in
DSIM    dsiminterns@rbi.org.in
FSD    cgmfsd@rbi.org.in
ID    rinternid@rbi.org.in


Shortlisted applicants are invited for a personal interview—final selection is merit-based and highly competitive.


What Work Will Interns Do?

Interns are placed in one of four key departments:

🔹 DEPR (Economic & Policy Research):

Monetary policy analysis

Inflation trends & forecasting

Contributions to RBI’s reports like the Annual Report, Monthly Bulletin

Topics include green finance, digital economy, financial markets


🔹 DSIM (Statistics & Information Management):

Big data analytics & survey design

Statistical modeling for banking, trade, and external sectors

Data warehousing, supervision analytics


🔹 FSD (Financial Stability Department):

Stress testing for banks and NBFCs

Systemic risk analysis and crisis prevention

Monitoring financial institutions and global financial vulnerabilities


🔹 International Department (ID):

Global economic cooperation and diplomacy

Exchange rate policies and trade analysis

Representation in international forums (IMF, World Bank, BIS)


Benefits Beyond the Stipend

Work closely with RBI’s leading economists and data scientists

Opportunity to co-author research papers, articles, and policy reports

Real-time exposure to economic data, financial markets, and decision-making

A finalized internship certificate, boosting credibility for Ph.D. and job applications

Possibility of extension (though no direct recruitment guarantee)


Why You Should Apply?

If you dream of working in: ✅ Economics & Public Policy
✅ Central Banking or Financial Research
✅ International Finance or Data Analytics
✅ Ph.D. or Global Research Institutions

Then this internship could be the turning point in your career.

Final Words

The RBI Research Internship Scheme 2025 is more than a training program—it is an intellectual journey into India’s financial heart. It opens doors to policymaking, economic research, and potential leadership roles. With deadlines approaching, aspirants must start preparing their SOP, resume, and academic documents now.

Your research today could shape India’s economy tomorrow. Don’t miss the opportunity—apply, prepare, and aim high.