Start your research journey anywhere in the world! Good news — the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2026 is now open for applications. This article provides full details about the fellowship, its benefits, and a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2026–2027 is a fully funded fellowship for international PhD students. The program offers up to $42,750 (net) per fellow for an 8-month research residency.
Run by the World Bank, this fellowship supports PhD candidates from developing countries to carry out innovative, development-focused research under the guidance of senior researchers at partner institutions worldwide.
Key Program Features
- Professional Experience:
Fellows will work directly on World Bank research projects under the supervision of DEC (Development Economics Vice Presidency) researchers. They will gain hands-on training in advanced research techniques, collaborate on publications, and may co-author papers, join field missions, and engage with global development clients. - Capacity Building:
Fellows will receive a one-week technical onboarding covering reproducible research practices. Additional training sessions and continuous education programs throughout the fellowship will strengthen their analytical and writing skills for policy research. - Research Dissemination:
Each fellow will be encouraged to write a blog summarizing their research outcomes. The top four blogs each year are featured on the World Bank’s “Let’s Talk Development” platform — offering global visibility for participants’ work.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: PhD
- Institution: World Bank
- Study Location: Any Country (hosted at World Bank, Washington D.C.)
- Available Fields: Economics and related disciplines (Development Research or Impact Evaluation departments)
- Program Duration: 8 months
- Deadline: February 28, 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program provides:
- A stipend of $42,750 (net) per fellow for the 8-month period (paid monthly).
- Assistance from World Bank HR for visa application letters to Washington D.C.
Note: The fellowship does not cover visa fees, travel expenses, or costs related to family members’ relocation.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following:
- Language Requirement: English proficiency.
- Eligible Countries: Nationals of World Bank WBG member countries, with preference for developing nations.
- Hold a Master’s degree or be currently pursuing a PhD in Economics or a related field.
- Be 35 years old or younger by June 30, 2026.
- Be available to relocate to Washington, D.C. for the fellowship duration.
How to Apply
Interested candidates must complete the online application before the deadline. Required materials include:
- Resume / CV
- Statement of Research Interests (must outline your academic interests and indicate which World Bank DEC program you wish to join)
- Contact details for a letter of recommendation
- Optional: Writing sample or coding sample
All documents must be submitted online only. Submissions via email or post will not be accepted.
Official Website
For detailed information and to apply, please visit the official page below:
