Applications are now open for the fully funded 2027 World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program for sub-Sahara African Students.The programme is designed to develop the next generation of African researchers, policy experts, and development professionals.
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Successful fellows will spend six months working with World Bank Group teams on research, economic policy, technical assistance, and development projects that contribute to reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity across Africa. There is also an opportunity to build international networks, strengthen research skills, and prepare for leadership careers in development.
World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 Summary
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | World Bank Group (WBG) |
| Fellowship Type | Fully Funded Fellowship |
| Fellowship Location | Washington, D.C., USA or World Bank Country Offices |
| Eligible Countries | Sub Saharan African countries |
| Duration | 6 Months |
| Programme Start | January 2027 |
| Eligible Applicants | Final year PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates |
| Age Requirement | 32 years or younger by January 1, 2027 |
| Application Opens | July 15, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 25, 2026 |
About the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program was established to strengthen Africa’s future workforce in development research and public policy. The programme targets talented young African scholars whose research aligns with the World Bank’s development priorities. Fellows work alongside experienced economists, researchers, and policy specialists on projects that support economic growth, institutional development, and poverty reduction.
Since its launch, the fellowship has helped prepare many African professionals for careers in international development organisations, government ministries, research institutions, universities, think tanks, development finance institutions. Participants gain practical experience while contributing to real development programmes that impact countries across Africa.
Fellowship Benefits
- Six months of professional experience with the World Bank Group
- Placement at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or a country office
- Hands-on involvement in research and development projects
- Experience in economic policy and lending operations
- Exposure to international development work
- Professional networking opportunities
- Mentorship from experienced World Bank professionals
- Opportunity to build a career in international development
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the 2027 World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program, applicants must:
- Be a national of a Sub Saharan African country.
- Be in the final year of a PhD programme or have completed a PhD within the last three years.
- Be 32 years old or younger by January 1, 2027.
- Have excellent written and spoken English.
- Demonstrate strong quantitative and analytical skills.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the documents required through the online application system.
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic information
- PhD programme details or PhD certificate
- Supporting information requested in the application portal
Selection Process
The selection process takes place in two stages.
Phase One
Applications are reviewed, and qualified candidates are shortlisted based on their academic background, research interests, and professional qualifications. Only shortlisted candidates move to the next stage.
Phase Two
World Bank Group departments review shortlisted candidates and select fellows whose expertise best matches their operational and research needs. Successful applicants will be offered six-month consultancy appointments beginning in January 2027.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
Step 1: Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | July 15, 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 25, 2026 |
| Fellowship Begins | January 2027 |
CLICK HERE TO START YOUR APPLICATION
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship fully funded?
Yes. Selected fellows receive a six-month placement with the World Bank Group and gain hands-on professional experience.
Who can apply?
Final-year PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates from Sub Saharan Africa.
What is the age limit?
Applicants must be 32 years old or younger by January 1, 2027.
Do I need to speak English?
Yes. Applicants must demonstrate excellent written and spoken English.
Where will fellows work?
Successful fellows will be placed either at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or at a World Bank country office.
How long is the fellowship?
The fellowship lasts six months.
When does the fellowship begin?
The programme starts in January 2027.
Are women encouraged to apply?
Yes. The World Bank Group strongly encourages applications from women.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on August 25, 2026.
What type of work will fellows do?
Fellows contribute to research, economic policy, technical assistance, and development projects that support poverty reduction and shared prosperity.
