The World Bank Africa Fellowship Program 2027 offers a unique opportunity for PhD candidates and recent graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa to gain hands-on experience at the World Bank Group. This fully funded fellowship aims to build the capacity of the next generation of African scholars in development research and policymaking.
The World Bank Group (WBG) is a global development institution focused on reducing poverty and increasing shared prosperity. Through this fellowship, the WBG Africa regions provide selected fellows with a six-month assignment at headquarters in Washington D.C. or country offices, working on research, economic policy, and lending operations.
World Bank Africa Fellowship Benefits
- If you are hired as an Extended Term Consultant (ETC) and will receive a monthly salary/fee for the six-month duration
- Six-month hands-on experience at WBG headquarters in Washington D.C. or a country office
- The program covers round-trip economy class air travel to Washington, D.C., or the designated country office from your home institution or university
- Work on research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations
- You will be provided with worker’s compensation insurance
- Contribute to the WBG’s goal of eliminating poverty and increasing shared prosperity
- Build a strong pipeline of young African talent interested in a career in development
World Bank Africa Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
- Be a recent Ph.D. graduate (within three years of completion) or be enrolled in the last year of the Ph.D. program
- Be a Sub-Saharan Africa national
- Have an excellent command of English, both written and verbal
- Possess strong quantitative and analytical skills
- Be of the age of 32 or younger by January 1, 2027
How to Apply for World Bank Africa Fellowship?
- Click the ‘Apply Now’ link on the official page to access the application portal
- Submit your application before the deadline: August 25, 2026
- Only shortlisted applicants will be notified
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the World Bank Africa Fellowship Program. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the World Bank Africa Fellowship Program?
The World Bank Africa Fellowship Program is a fully funded fellowship for PhD candidates and recent graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa. It offers a six-month assignment at World Bank Group offices to gain hands-on experience in development research, policy, and operations.
Who is eligible for the World Bank Africa Fellowship?
Eligible applicants must be Sub-Saharan Africa nationals, recent PhD graduates (within three years) or in the last year of their PhD, aged 32 or younger by January 1, 2027, with excellent English and strong quantitative skills.
What are the benefits of the fellowship?
Selected fellows receive a six-month assignment at WBG headquarters in Washington D.C. or a country office, working on research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations that contribute to poverty reduction and shared prosperity.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the 2027 World Bank Africa Fellowship Program is August 25, 2026. Applications open on July 15, 2026.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
You can apply by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ link on the official World Bank Africa Fellowship Program page. The application portal is available at wbgfellowship.worldbank.org.
What is the selection process?
The selection process has two phases. Phase I shortlists candidates for different WBG units based on specialization. Phase II selects the final fellows in consultation with units. Only shortlisted candidates are notified.
Where will the fellowship take place?
The fellowship takes place at World Bank Group offices, either at headquarters in Washington D.C., USA, or in a country office. The assignment lasts six months starting January 2027.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the World Bank Africa Fellowship Program is fully funded. Selected fellows are hired as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) for the six-month duration, covering all associated costs.
Can women apply for this fellowship?
Yes, women are strongly encouraged to apply. The program aims to build capacity among young African scholars and promote gender diversity in development research and policymaking.
What is the age limit for applicants?
Applicants must be aged 32 or younger by January 1, 2027. This age limit applies to all candidates, including recent PhD graduates and those in the final year of their PhD program.
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