The World Bank Group (WBG) has officially opened applications for its 2027 Africa Fellowship Program, offering young African researchers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in international development through a fully funded six-month placement at the World Bank's headquarters in Washington, D.C., or selected country offices. Applications opened on July 15, 2026, and will close on August 25, 2026.
The fellowship aims to strengthen Africa's capacity in economic research and policymaking by supporting talented scholars who are in the final year of their PhD studies or who have completed a PhD within the past three years. Since its launch, the program has become one of the World Bank's flagship initiatives for nurturing the next generation of African development leaders.
"The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program builds a strong pipeline of young African talent interested in careers in development."
Successful applicants will work as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) for six months beginning in January 2027. During the fellowship, participants will contribute to development research, economic policy analysis, lending operations, technical assistance projects and knowledge-sharing initiatives alongside World Bank experts.
The program is designed to bridge the gap between academic research and practical policymaking by exposing fellows to real-world development challenges. Participants will also receive mentorship from senior economists and policy specialists while expanding their professional networks across the World Bank Group and partner institutions.
Eligible applicants must be nationals of Sub-Saharan African countries, be 32 years old or younger by January 1, 2027, demonstrate excellent written and spoken English, and possess strong analytical, quantitative and research skills. Women are strongly encouraged to apply as part of the World Bank's efforts to promote gender equality in development leadership.
"Women are especially encouraged to apply."
The fellowship welcomes candidates from disciplines relevant to the World Bank's development agenda, including economics, public policy, agriculture, education, health, climate change, infrastructure, digital development, energy and social protection. Scholars whose research addresses Africa's development challenges are particularly encouraged to submit applications.
In addition to gaining valuable professional experience, fellows receive consultant remuneration, round-trip economy airfare to their duty station and the opportunity to collaborate with leading experts on projects that influence development policies across Africa and beyond. Many alumni have gone on to serve as economists, researchers, policymakers and consultants in governments, universities, think tanks and international organizations.
According to the World Bank, the fellowship has supported more than 270 African scholars over the past 12 years, helping build a growing network of professionals committed to advancing sustainable development across the continent. Alumni continue to contribute to policymaking, research and economic transformation in various African countries.
The 2027 Africa Fellowship Program reflects the World Bank's continued investment in strengthening local expertise and empowering African researchers to shape evidence-based policies that address poverty reduction, economic growth and sustainable development.
Application Details
- Program: World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027
- Application opens: July 15, 2026
- Application deadline: August 25, 2026
- Duration: Six months (beginning January 2027)
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA, or selected World Bank country offices
- Eligibility: Nationals of Sub-Saharan African countries who are final-year PhD candidates or recent PhD graduates (within three years), aged 32 or younger.