Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program - World Bank

Overview

The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) places promising PhD candidates from developing countries within World Bank research teams in Washington, D.C. Fellows work alongside economists in the Development Impact (DIME) and Development Research Group (DECRG) departments on rigorous, policy-relevant studies. The 8-month fellowship runs September to May. Applications for the 2027-2028 cycle are expected to open in late 2026 with a deadline around 28 February 2027, consistent with prior cycles. Candidates should monitor the World Bank scholarships page from October 2026 onward for the exact date.

Benefits

• Net stipend of up to USD 42,750 for the full 8-month fellowship (September to May).
• Round-trip economy airfare to and from Washington, D.C.
• Health insurance coverage during the fellowship period.
• Office space, library access, and research computing resources at World Bank headquarters.
• Mentorship from senior World Bank economists on peer-reviewed research projects.

Eligibility

• National of a World Bank member country (developing countries strongly preferred).
• Enrolled in a PhD programme in economics, public policy, political science, data science, statistics, international development, sociology, or mathematics.
• Must not have completed all PhD requirements at the time of application.
• Maximum age: 35 years old as of 30 June of the fellowship start year.
• Strong command of English (written and spoken).
• Cannot already be a World Bank staff member or under contract with the Bank.

How to apply

1. Monitor the World Bank scholarships page (worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships) from October 2026 onward; the application portal opens in late 2026.
2. Prepare the following materials: research statement describing the proposed project and its relevance to development policy (maximum 1,000 words), academic CV, two letters of recommendation from supervisors or faculty members, PhD enrollment certificate, official academic transcripts, and a writing sample such as a published paper or dissertation chapter.
3. Submit the complete application through the online portal before 28 February 2027 (expected deadline).
4. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview in April 2027.
5. Successful fellows are notified by June 2027 and begin their stay in Washington, D.C. in September 2027.
6. Inquiries: rsm_fellowships@worldbank.org.