GES Summer Student - Student Economist

Are you an economics undergraduate in your penultimate year on track for a 2:1 or above? Do you want to gain practical professional experience and use your economics skills to make a difference? Join the UK Government for a paid summer placement.

Summer placements last 6-12 weeks over the summer period and are paid. The scheme offers a unique opportunity to gain practical experience working in the Civil Service, applying economics to issues that matter.

Placements take place in a variety of UK Government departments across the UK. You will dive straight into the work that shapes policy. You'll crunch data that informs government direction, compare policy trade-offs, and brief the people making choices that affect millions.

This is not your every-day work experience. You'll tackle the economic issues that matter—from housing markets to climate policy to public spending. Many of our placement students return as permanent economists after graduating.

What's in it for you?

Work that actually makes a difference, hands-on economics experience in the real world, a supportive and inclusive team, and the adaptability to balance work with your studies.

Ready to see where your economics degree can take you?

Applications close on 19 October 2025. We will be holding an online Q&A for students on Thursday 9 October, 16.30 - 17.30. Joining details are on the application page.

Please refer to the full eligibility criteria on the application web page.

“The placement has been amazing - everyone has been so friendly, and I have enjoyed all the work I'm getting up to.” GES Summer Student, 2025