The World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is now open for applications, offering a life-changing opportunity for Ph.D. students and recent Ph.D. graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa. This fully funded program invites young African scholars to gain real-world development experience at the World Bank’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., or in one of its country offices. If you’re a young researcher passionate about creating real impact through economic policy, research, or development, this fellowship is for you.
Women and underrepresented groups are especially encouraged to apply.
This article provides full details about the fellowship program, including how eligible and interested candidates can apply.
World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 Summary
- Host Country: United States of America (USA)
- Study Abroad: Study in USA
- Category: Training | Fellowships
- Eligible Countries: Sub-Saharan African Countries
- Reward: Full fellowship coverage | Monthly Stipend | Air Ticket and more
- Deadline: September 15, 2025
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World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 Details
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program is a prestigious and highly competitive initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of African leaders in development. The program invites talented African Ph.D. candidates and recent graduates to participate in a six-month fellowship focused on real-world development challenges.
Fellows will be placed at the WBG headquarters in Washington, D.C. or in one of the World Bank’s country offices. They will work directly with World Bank experts on projects involving research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations that contribute to reducing poverty and boosting shared prosperity.
The program not only strengthens fellows’ technical skills but also expands their professional networks and exposes them to the inner workings of a top-tier international development institution.
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World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the WBG Africa Fellowship Program, you must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Academic Background: Must either:
- Currently enrolled in the final year of a relevant Ph.D. program, or
- Have completed a Ph.D. within the last three years
- Age Limit: Must be under 32 years old by the application deadline (August 25, 2025)
- Language Proficiency: Excellent verbal and written English skills
- Skills: Strong analytical and quantitative research abilities
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World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- A 6-month paid consultancy contract with the World Bank Group
- Round-trip economy-class airfare to Washington, D.C. or a designated WBG country office
- Hands-on experience in international development
- Access to high-level research and policy work in areas like economics, infrastructure, health, and education
- Mentorship and collaboration with top development professionals
- Opportunity to build a global network and advance your career in development, academia, or public service
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World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 Required Documents
When applying, prepare the following documents:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts or proof of Ph.D. candidacy/completion
- Statement of interest (highlighting your research interests and how they align with the World Bank’s goals)
- Any relevant published or unpublished research (optional but recommended)
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How to Apply for the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 (Step-by-Step Application Process)
- Visit the Official Portal
Go to the World Bank Group’s website and access the fellowship application page. - Fill Out the Form
Complete the online application form with accurate details. - Upload Required Documents
Submit your CV, statement of interest, and proof of Ph.D. status or completion. - Submit Application
Review and submit your application before the deadline. - Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will be notified and matched with WBG departments. Final fellows will be contacted for placement starting January 2026.
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Deadline
Application Deadline: August 25, 2025
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