Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025. Get started anywhere in the world with your study adventure. It’s good news! There are currently open applications for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program. The purpose of this article is to describe in detail how to apply for this scholarship, its benefits, and the steps involved in the process.
For international students, the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025-2026 is a fully funded scholarship. The scholarship will cover the cost of an 8-month fellowship and provide the recipient with up to $42,750 in net payments.
In the World Bank Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program, Ph.D. candidates from developing countries are offered fellowships that allow them to pursue creative, development-related PhD studies at partner organizations overseas under the supervision of study consultants for 6-10 months.
Key Program Features
- Professional experience: Fellows will work on World Bank projects under the direct supervision of World Bank DEC researchers. They will be taught cutting-edge research practices and technologies and will be given the opportunity to interact with World Bank operations. It will be possible for them to contribute to DEC’s published work as well as potentially contribute to DEC’s field missions and directly engage with DEC clients depending on the nature of the projects.
- Capacity building: Fellows will receive a one-week technical orientation at the start of the program, which includes training in reproducible research practices. Fellowship participants will participate in periodic continuing education trainings and events throughout the program to enhance their skills. Fellows will learn how to identify, study, and write about important development policy questions by working with DEC economists.
- Research dissemination: Fellows will be asked to write a blog about the fellowship research they conducted with DEC researchers. This is an opportunity for researchers to showcase their research and contribute to development policy discussions. In each year, the top four blogs will be published on DEC’s Let’s Talk Development blog.
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 of the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC).
- Deadline: February 28, 2026
Coverage of scholarships
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program offers the following benefits to recipients:
- The total net amount per fellow for an 8-month fellowship is $42,750 (paid monthly)
- The World Bank’s Human Resources will assist the selected candidates with visa applications by providing invitation letters since the fellows will be staying at the World Bank in Washington D.C.
Note: Fellowships do not cover visa application costs, travel expenses, or expenses for family members of fellows.
Eligibility Criteria for Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
To qualify for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program, applicants must satisfy the following eligibility conditions:
- Language Requirement: Proficiency in English is mandatory.
- Nationality: Applicants must be citizens of a World Bank (WBG) member country. Preference is given to individuals from developing nations.
- Academic Background: Candidates should have completed a Master’s degree in Economics or a closely related field, or be currently enrolled in a PhD program.
- Age Limit: Applicants must be 35 years old or younger as of June 30 in the year the fellowship begins.
- Location Availability: Willingness to reside in Washington, D.C. throughout the fellowship period is required.
How to Apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
To apply for the RSMFP, you must complete the online application before the deadline. Visit the official website link at the end of this article to get started.
Here’s what you need to submit:
- Your updated resume
- A statement of research interests (mention your research focus and the DEC programs you’re interested in)
- Contact information for someone who will write your recommendation letter
- An optional writing sample
- An optional code sample
Important: You must upload all documents through the online application form. Applications sent by email, post, or any other method will not be accepted or reviewed.
FAQs About Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025
Is the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship provides a total of $42,750, which is paid monthly during the 8-month fellowship. However, it does not cover visa costs or travel expenses for you or your family.
Can I apply if I’m still enrolled in a PhD program?
Absolutely. The fellowship is designed for PhD students who are in the midst of their doctoral research and want to gain practical research experience under global experts.
Do I need to be in Washington, D.C. during the entire fellowship period?
Yes. It is mandatory to stay in Washington, D.C. for the full duration of the fellowship. This allows fellows to work closely with World Bank staff and participate in field projects, training, and events.
Conclusion
If you’re a motivated, young researcher from a developing country, this is your chance to sharpen your skills, gain global exposure, and contribute to world-class economic research. The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2025-2026 not only provides financial support, but also offers a platform to grow professionally, expand your network, and make a lasting impact on international development policies.
