Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program funds young researchers from developing countries who are undertaking innovative, policy-oriented research on economics and development. It provides chosen fellows with the opportunity to collaborate directly with World Bank research economists and gain worthwhile exposure to policy formulation and analytical techniques.

This fellowship is suitable for future researchers who have just finished or are working on a PhD. Fellows are offered a competitive stipend, mentorship, and an opportunity to work on high-impact global development issues in collaboration with others. Apart from the academic development, the fellowship also contributes to building networks in the international policy and research world.

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

Start your scholarly journey with international exposure; applications are now accepted for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025-2026. This renowned program provides financial assistance to outstanding PhD scholars belonging to developing countries who are interested in development-oriented research.

For an 8-month resident research program, the World Bank-sponsored fellowship provides a net salary of up to $42,750. The chosen fellows work with global research centers and seasoned academic mentors, carrying out significant work contributing to global development objectives in 6 to 10 months. It is a great chance to develop academically while acquiring practical policy research experience.

World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program Overview

Offered By	The World Bank
Program Name	Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
Work Location	World Bank Headquarters, Washington, D.C.
Country	USA
Total Stipend	$42,750
Program Duration	8 Months (Typically from September to May)
Age Limit	Max 35 years (by June 30, 2025)
Category	Education
Official Website	https://www.worldbank.org/

Key Features of Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

Professional Experience:

• The chosen fellows will learn practical research methods, get to use advanced analytical tools, and work across World Bank teams.
• Fellows could work on preparing reports on the project, accompany on-ground research missions, work with international stakeholders, and even co-author academic papers.

Capacity Building:

• Fellows receive a one-week technical orientation on data ethics, research design, and analytical techniques at the beginning of the program.
• They will also participate in bi-monthly learning sessions and workshops to enhance their research skills.
• Collaborating closely with DEC economists enhances their ability to explore key issues on global economic topics.

Research Exposure:

• The findings from the research will be summarised in a blog post by the fellows.
• The strongest posts will be showcased each year on the World Bank’s “Development in Focus” platform, giving them a voice in international policy debates.

Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program Scholarship Support

Each of the fellows will be awarded a total stipend of $42,750, which will be paid over the duration of the 8-month program in equal monthly instalments.

Fellows will work with leading economists at the World Bank’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., where they will live. The Human Resources department of the World Bank will assist selected fellows by providing official invitation letters needed for U.S. visa processing.

Note: The funding does not extend to visa application fees, international travel, or bringing dependents or family members to the U.S. Those should be handled by the individual fellows.

Eligibility for Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

• English proficiency, both written and verbal, is required.
• Applicants should be citizens of a World Bank Group (WBG) member country, giving preference to candidates hailing from developing countries.
• Candidates must hold a Master’s degree in economics or a closely related discipline, or be pursuing a PhD.
• Applicants should be no more than 35 years old by June 30th of the year that the fellowship is starting.
• A good academic record and a proven interest in development research are a must.

How to Apply for Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program

To apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program, you must follow the crucial steps, which are mentioned below:

• Forward your full application solely through the official online portal within the stipulated deadline.
• Attach an up-to-date resume sumarising your academic and research experience.
• Submit a comprehensive statement explaining your research interest and identify which DEC areas of research are most relevant to your interests.
• List the name and contact information of one individual who will submit a letter of recommendation on your behalf.
• You can also include an optional writing sample highlighting your academic or research work.
• Adding a sample of code to demonstrate how you used programming or data analysis techniques in your research is optional.
• The only documents which will be considered are those uploaded through the official online form; anything posted by email or mail will be ignored.

Start Your Journey in Development Research

The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program is an opportunity for young researchers from developing nations to make a contribution to global development by working hands-on at the World Bank.

Through financial support, mentorship, and access to first-class resources, fellows experience skills and knowledge that last a lifetime.

If you qualify and have a passion for development economics, this fellowship can be the milestone moment in your professional and academic advancement. Apply now and influence meaningful change.

FAQs