The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) is now open for applications for the 2026/2027 school year. This fully funded fellowship is for PhD students from developing countries. Fellows will get up to $42750 for 8 months paid each month while working on research projects with World Bank experts. The program offers professional training, skill building and chances to publish research. Fellows will spend time in Washington DC under the watch of World Bank DEC researchers, gaining useful experience in development policy and world economics. The deadline to apply is 28 February 2026.
Quick Details About Robert S. McNamara Fellowships
| Host Country | USA (Washington DC) |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | World Bank |
| Degree Level | PhD research |
| Eligibile For | Internationals |
| Benefits | Funded |
| Number of Awards | 10–20 every year |
| Duration | 8 months |
| Application Fee | Free |
| Deadline | February 28 2026 |
Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program Overview 2026/2027
The Robert S. McNamara Program started in 1982 from World Bank. It helps young researchers from poor countries learn and work on big problems like economy, health or environment. You stay at World Bank office in USA. The program teaches new skills like data work and policy. Washington DC is busy with museums and parks. You meet people from 190 countries. The fellowship wants to build leaders who go home and help their nation. It is for PhD level only.
Also See: Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program 2026 (Fully Funded)
Scholarship Benefits
- Up to $42,750 for 8 months (paid each month).
- Money for conferences and research trips.
- Help with research assistants if needed.
- Full health insurance.
- Training on new tools and methods.
- Chance to write blog or paper with World Bank.
No money for plane ticket or family.
Offered Courses
When you fill out the application, you will need to choose which department you want to work in.
You can pick one from these two options:
Both of these departments are part of the Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) at the World Bank.
All you have to do is select your preferred choice in the online application form.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026 Intake
You can apply if you meet these rules.
- You are from a developing country on World Bank list. This keeps it for people from poor nations.
- You are under 35 years old by June 30 2026. This helps young people start career.
- You finished master degree or are doing PhD in economics or related field. This shows you are ready for research.
- You know English very well. This is needed for work at World Bank.
- You are available to move to Washington DC for 8 months. This is full time stay.
- You want to work on development topics. Your statement must show this.
Also See: Belgium VUB Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program 2026 Application Deadline
The last date is February 28 2026. Apply early to write good statement.
Required Documents
- Online form with your details.
- Resume or CV with your education and work.
- Statement of research interests (why you want this).
- Recommendation letter contact.
- Writing sample like paper or thesis.
- Code sample if you do data work.
Upload all online.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Make account on World Bank scholarship site (link below). This lets you fill the form.
- Fill your info like education and work. Take time to be clear.
- Write statement about your research and why World Bank. This is most important.
- Add contact for recommendation letter. They send link to your person.
- Upload writing or code sample if you have. This shows your skills.
- Send form by February 28. The team checks all.
- If you win, they tell you in spring 2026. You get visa help.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Acceptance
- Write statement about development work you did.
- Show how fellowship helps your country.
- Get recommendation from teacher who knows you.
- Pick research that fits World Bank goals.
- Check your form for no mistakes.
- Apply early to fix problems.
Official Website
For more details or deadlines visit the official Robert S. McNamara Fellowships website.