Apply for the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027. Open to PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa, this prestigious six-month fellowship offers hands-on experience in research, policy, and international development at World Bank offices.
World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is now accepting applications from outstanding PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa who are passionate about advancing development through research, public policy, and international cooperation. The prestigious fellowship provides young African scholars with the opportunity to gain practical experience working alongside leading development professionals at the World Bank Group.
Since its inception, the Africa Fellowship Program has helped build a strong network of talented African researchers and policymakers who have gone on to contribute to governments, international organizations, research institutions, think tanks, and universities across the continent. Through this initiative, the World Bank continues to invest in Africa’s future by strengthening local expertise and supporting the next generation of development leaders.
Selected fellows will spend six months working at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or at a World Bank country office, where they will contribute to research projects, economic policy development, technical assistance, and lending operations that support sustainable development and poverty reduction.
About the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program is designed to identify exceptional young African scholars with strong academic backgrounds and a commitment to development. The program provides fellows with practical exposure to the work of one of the world’s leading international development institutions.
During the fellowship, participants collaborate with World Bank experts on projects that address some of Africa’s most pressing development challenges, including economic growth, infrastructure, governance, education, health, climate resilience, agriculture, digital transformation, and poverty reduction.
The fellowship also offers valuable professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities that prepare participants for leadership roles in development research, policymaking, academia, and international organizations.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive the opportunity to:
- Complete a six-month professional fellowship with the World Bank Group.
- Work at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or at a selected country office.
- Gain practical experience in international development and economic policy.
- Contribute to research, technical assistance, and lending operations.
- Collaborate with leading economists, policy experts, and development practitioners.
- Build a global professional network within the World Bank Group.
- Strengthen research, analytical, and policy development skills.
- Enhance career prospects in international development, academia, government, and multilateral institutions.
Selected fellows are engaged as World Bank consultants during the fellowship period.
Areas of Work
Depending on their academic specialization and the needs of the World Bank Group, fellows may contribute to projects in areas such as:
- Development Economics
- Public Policy
- Poverty Reduction
- Economic Growth
- Climate Change
- Agriculture
- Infrastructure Development
- Digital Transformation
- Governance
- Public Financial Management
- Education
- Public Health
- Social Protection
- Water and Sanitation
- Energy
- Private Sector Development
- Financial Inclusion
Assignments are designed to provide meaningful professional experience while supporting the World Bank’s mission of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027, applicants must:
- Be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Be enrolled in the final year of a PhD program, or have completed a PhD within the last three years.
- Be 32 years of age or younger by January 1, 2027.
- Demonstrate excellent written and spoken English.
- Possess strong quantitative, analytical, and research skills.
- Have academic expertise relevant to the World Bank’s areas of work.
The World Bank strongly encourages women to apply as part of its commitment to promoting gender equality in international development.
Selection Process
The fellowship selection process is conducted in two stages.
Phase One
Applications are reviewed, and qualified candidates are shortlisted based on their academic background, research expertise, and alignment with the World Bank’s operational priorities.
Only shortlisted applicants are contacted during this stage.
Phase Two
World Bank departments review shortlisted candidates according to their specific technical needs.
Following consultations across various units, successful applicants are selected and invited to join the fellowship program.
Selected fellows begin their six-month assignments as World Bank consultants in January 2027.
Why Apply?
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship offers numerous professional and academic advantages.
Key benefits include:
- Experience at one of the world’s leading international development organizations.
- Exposure to global economic and development policy.
- Opportunities to contribute to impactful research.
- Mentorship from experienced development professionals.
- Enhanced academic and professional credentials.
- Strong networking opportunities with global experts.
- A pathway toward future careers with international organizations, governments, research institutions, and universities.
For young African scholars seeking to influence development policy and contribute to sustainable economic growth across the continent, this fellowship provides an exceptional platform for career advancement.
Application Process
Interested applicants should prepare all required documents before beginning the online application.
Typical application materials include:
- Completed online application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- PhD enrollment or graduation documentation
- Academic transcripts (where required)
- Research statement or statement of interest
- Supporting documents requested during the application process
Applicants should carefully review all eligibility requirements and submit complete applications before the official deadline.
Important Dates
- Application Opens: July 15, 2026
- Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: January 2027
Early submission is recommended to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
The fellowship is open to nationals of Sub-Saharan African countries who are either in the final year of a PhD program or have completed a PhD within the past three years.
Where will fellows work?
Successful applicants will be placed either at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or at a World Bank country office.
Is there an age requirement?
Yes. Applicants must be 32 years old or younger as of January 1, 2027.
Does the fellowship encourage female applicants?
Yes. The World Bank actively encourages women to apply to promote greater gender diversity in development research and policymaking.
Final Thoughts
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for talented African PhD candidates and recent graduates who want to make a meaningful contribution to international development. Through six months of hands-on experience at the World Bank, fellows gain practical knowledge, expand their professional networks, and develop the skills needed to influence policy and drive sustainable development across Africa.
If you are passionate about research, economics, public policy, and addressing development challenges, this fellowship offers an excellent opportunity to work alongside world-class experts while building a strong foundation for a successful career in academia, government, or international development.
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