The Africa region of the World Bank Group (WBG) is pleased to announce the opening of the application period for the 2026 WBG Africa Fellowship Program for Ph.D. candidates and recent Ph.D. graduates who are Sub-Saharan African nationals. Women are especially encouraged to apply.
When is the deadline for applications?
📅 August 25, 2025
Describe the award to me:
The World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is a fully funded 6-month professional placement for outstanding Ph.D. candidates and recent Ph.D. graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Fellows will work directly with WBG staff on research, economic policy, technical assistance, and operations at the WBG Headquarters in Washington D.C. or in designated country offices.
The program aims to develop a pipeline of African leaders in development policy, research, and global governance.
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Which fields qualify?
Fields relevant to the World Bank’s development goals, including:
- Economics
- Public Policy
- Education
- Health
- Agriculture
- Environment
- Infrastructure
- Governance
- Social Protection
- Finance & Private Sector Development
The type:
🎓 Fellowship / Professional Development Training
Who is eligible to apply?
✅ You must:
- Be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Be in the final year of your Ph.D. or recently completed it (within 3 years)
- Be under the age of 32 by the application deadline
- Have strong English communication skills
- Possess excellent quantitative and analytical abilities
🟡 Women, candidates from fragile/conflict-affected regions, and individuals from refugee/displaced communities are especially encouraged to apply.
How do they choose applicants?
📝 Two-phase selection process:
- Shortlisting Phase – Based on specialization, applicants are shortlisted and matched with relevant WBG units.
- Final Selection Phase – Final fellows are chosen in consultation with the WBG departments and hired as short-term consultants.
Which nations are qualified?
🌍 All Sub-Saharan African countries (nationals only)
Where will the prize be accepted?
📍 At the World Bank Headquarters (Washington, D.C.) or designated WBG country offices
Note: Fellows must be physically present from January to June 2026
How many honors?
🔢 Multiple fellowship spots available; the total number is not specified and depends on funding and departmental needs.
What advantage does the award offer?
💼 Benefits include:
- Monthly consultant fees
- Round-trip economy-class airfare
- Hands-on experience in global development operations
- Opportunity to build a powerful international network
- Work on meaningful research and development projects
What’s the duration of the award?
⏳ 6 months (January to June 2026)
How do I apply?
📌 Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the official fellowship application portal
- Complete the form and upload necessary documents
- Submit your application before August 25, 2025
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