[World Bank Group](https://www.worldbank.org/ext/en/home)

June 2026

8-month fellowship; competitive stipend (recent years: ~$46,500 total per fellow)

Offers early-career researchers from developing countries the opportunity to conduct development economics research with World Bank experts in Washington, D.C.

--- ## Description The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) enables promising early-career researchers from developing countries to work alongside World Bank research economists on rigorous, policy-relevant research projects. Fellows are hosted at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. for eight months, typically from September to May, and are embedded within the Development Economics Vice Presidency, including the Development Impact (DIME) and Development Research Group departments. During the fellowship, participants receive technical onboarding, ongoing training in advanced research methods, and hands-on experience working on impactful development policy issues. Fellows may contribute to published research, co-author papers, participate in field missions, and engage with World Bank operations and clients. The program also emphasizes capacity building and research dissemination, offering opportunities to present findings through blogs and seminars. Through this immersive experience, fellows expand their professional networks and enhance their skills to address development challenges in their home countries and beyond. --- ## Due Dates - June 2026: Application deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Fellows receive a competitive stipend for the 8-month fellowship (recent years: approximately $46,500 per fellow). - The award covers living expenses in Washington, D.C. for the duration of the fellowship. - Fellows are responsible for their own travel and visa arrangements, but support is provided for the visa process. --- ## Eligibility - Open to nationals of World Bank Group member countries from developing countries. - Applicants should be early-career researchers (typically under 35 years old). - A master’s degree or currently pursuing/passed coursework toward a PhD in economics, public policy, statistics, social sciences, or related fields is required. - Strong quantitative and analytical skills, with demonstrated interest in development research. - Proficiency in English. - Applicants must be available to relocate to Washington, D.C. for the full 8-month program. --- ## Application Process - Applications are submitted online via the [program page](https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program) during the open call (anticipated annually). - Required materials typically include: - CV/resume - Statement of purpose - Academic transcripts - Letters of recommendation - Selection is based on academic excellence, research potential, and alignment with World Bank research priorities. - Finalists may be invited for interviews. --- ## Additional Information - Fellows are matched with World Bank research economists based on their interests and project needs. - The program offers a technical onboarding week and regular seminars with leading development researchers. - Fellows are encouraged to disseminate research through blogs and presentations. - The program is highly competitive, with a global applicant pool. --- ## External Links - [Program Overview and Application Portal](https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program) - [World Bank Scholarships](https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program#1) - [Development Economics at the World Bank](https://www.worldbank.org/en/about/unit/unit-dec) - [Recent Fellows and Blogs](https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program/2023-cohort-blogs) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Details | |------------------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | General Inquiries | [rsm_fellowships@worldbank.org](mailto:rsm_fellowships@worldbank.org) | | Funder Main Contact | [World Bank Group Contact Page](https://www.worldbank.org/en/about/contacts) | | Phone | (202) 473-1000 |

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

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