Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program For 2025. You can start your study adventure anywhere in the world. There is good news! There is currently an open application period for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program. This article will describe in detail what this scholarship is, its benefits, and the application process in detail.
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025-2026 is a fully funded scholarship intended for international students. The scholarship is available for PhD studies and provides the recipient with a total of $42,750 net per fellow during the fellowship period.
The World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program grants fellowships for Ph.D. candidates from developing countries for creative, development-related PhD studies at a partner organization overseas under the guidance of a study consultant over a period of 6-10 months.
The key features of the program
- Professional experience: Fellows will have the opportunity to work on World Bank projects under the direct supervision of World Bank DEC researchers. They will also have the opportunity to receive training in cutting-edge research methods and technologies and engage with the World Bank operations. The work that they are involved in will give them the chance to contribute to DEC’s published work, to work with DEC researchers, and to directly engage with our clients, depending on the nature of the project.
- Capacity building: Fellows will participate in a one-week technical onboarding program at the start of the program, along with training on reproducible research practices. Fellowship participants will participate in periodic trainings and events to further develop their skills throughout the program. Fellows will develop their ability to identify, study, and write about important development policy issues through their work with DEC economists.
- Research dissemination: Fellowship researchers will be asked to write a blog about their fellowship research. This is a great opportunity for researchers to showcase their research and contribute to development policy discussions. A list of the top four blogs will be featured on the Let’s Talk Development blog of DEC each year.
Summary of Scholarships
- Study Level: PhD
- Institution(s): World Bank
- Study at : Any Country
- Courses Offered: Applicants can select whether they would like to be hosted by the Development research department or the Impact evaluation department within the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC).
- Deadline: February 28, 2025
Coverage of scholarships
The McNamara Fellowship Program provides the following benefits to its recipients:
- In total, $42,750 net per fellow (paid in monthly installments) for an 8-month fellowship
- The World Bank HR will assist the selected candidates with visa applications by providing invitation letters since the fellows will be based in Washington D.C.
Note: The fellowship does not cover visa application costs, travel expenses, or other expenses associated with bringing and/or supporting fellows’ families.
Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program Eligibility Criteria
The following criteria must be met by applicants to be eligible for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program:
- Languages Required: English
- Countries Eligible: Nationals of WBG member countries, with preference for developing countries
- Students who have completed MA-level studies or who are in the process of completing a PhD in Economics;
- Age no more than 35 years old (by June 30th of the year the fellowship starts);
- Available to transfer to Washington, D.C. for the term of the fellowship.
How to Apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program?
To apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program, please visit the official website (link provided at the end). Follow these important steps to complete your application:
- Submit your application online before the deadline.
- Make sure your application includes the following:
- A resume (CV),
- A statement of research interests – This should explain your research goals and mention the specific research areas you’re interested in within the DEC (Development Economics group),
- Contact information for someone who can provide a letter of recommendation,
- A writing sample (optional),
- A code sample (optional).
Important: All documents must be uploaded through the online application system. Applications sent by email, mail, or any other method will not be accepted or reviewed.
FAQs About Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program For 2025
Can I apply if I’m still in the early stage of my PhD?
Yes, applicants currently enrolled in a PhD program in Economics are encouraged to apply, especially if they have completed their MA-level studies and have a strong research proposal.
Does the fellowship support dependents or family relocation?
No, the fellowship does not cover family-related expenses, travel for dependents, or any additional financial support for bringing family members to Washington, D.C.
What kind of research projects will I work on during the fellowship?
Fellows are typically involved in development-related research that aligns with the World Bank’s operational priorities. This could include impact evaluations, macroeconomic policy analysis, poverty reduction strategies, and more depending on the DEC unit you are assigned to.
Conclusion
You can start your study adventure anywhere in the world. There is good news! The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025–2026 offers an incredible opportunity for aspiring researchers from developing nations to engage with global development at the highest level. With generous financial support and access to world-class mentorship, this fellowship is a gateway to impactful research and an international academic career.
