Applications are now open for the 2025-2026 Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program is a golden opportunity offered by the World Bank. This program is primarily designed for international students who have completed a master’s degree or are currently enrolled in one, and are either planning to start a PhD in Economics or a similar subject.
The goal of this fellowship is to support young researchers from developing countries by giving them real experience in policy research and development studies. Through this block post we will provide details related to Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program, including its overview, opportunity, experience, and application procedure.
Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program
Each selected fellow will receive up to $42,750 (net amount) for an 8 month period, and the amount is paid in monthly installments. Fellows will be based in Washington D.C, where the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) is located.
The stipend is quite good, but the fellowship does not pay for visa fees, travel expenses, or support for family members. Still, the World Bank will help with the visa process by giving official invitation letters to selected candidates.
World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program Overview
| Organizer | World Bank – Development Economics (DEC) |
| Program Name | Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program |
| Location | Washington D.C., USA |
| Duration | 8 months (2025-2026) |
| Stipend | Up to $42,750 |
| Payments | Monthly installments |
| Age Limit | 35 years or younger (by June 30, 2025) |
| Language Requirement | Strong English skills |
| Category | Education |
| Official Website | https://www.worldbank.org/ |
Research Experience with Global Development Experts
Fellows will work closely with senior economists and researchers at the World Bank. They will take part in research projects related to global development and may also contribute to official publications, and join field visits.
Depending on the project, fellows may also get to work on real development activities, helping them understand how policies are created and implemented.
Skill Enhancement and Training
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program starts with a one week orientation where fellows are introduced to key research tools and methods. During the fellowship, they will attend training sessions and workshops, which primarily aims to improve their research and analytical skills.
These activities have a goal to prepare fellows to carry out quality, evidence based research that can support development policy decisions.
Opportunity to Share Research Work Publicly
Fellows will also have the opportunity to write a blog based on their research experiences, allowing them to share their work, ideas, and findings with a wider audience, including researchers, academics, and policymakers. Writing the blog help them to be part of important conversations in the global research and development community.
Who Can Apply and How to Submit Your Application
This fellowship is open to applicants who are citizens of World Bank member countries, especially from developing nations. Candidates must be 35 years old or younger by 30th June 2025, and must be able to stay in Washington D.C for the full 8-month program. Strong English skills are required to apply for Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program, as all work and communication will be in English.
To apply, candidates must complete a fellowship online application form by 28th February 2025. The application should include a resume, a statement describing the applicant’s research interests and the topics they want to explore within the World Bank’s DEC unit, and contact details of at least one referee who can provide a recommendation letter. Adding a writing or coding sample is optional but can make the application stronger.
FAQs
What is the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program?
It is a fully funded 8-month research fellowship by the World Bank for young scholars from developing countries.
How much stipend do fellows receive during the program?
Fellows receive up to $42,750 (net), paid in monthly installments.
Who can apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program?
Applicants must be citizens of World Bank member countries, 35 years or younger, and have completed or be enrolled in a master’s program.
