2026 World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program – Now Open
Are you a Ph.D. candidate or recent Ph.D. graduate from Sub-Saharan Africa with a passion for development and policymaking? Then here’s an incredible opportunity for you!
The World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program is now accepting applications for the 2026 cycle, and it’s designed to equip Africa’s brightest minds with the tools, exposure, and networks needed to lead change across the continent.
About the Fellowship Program
Launched with the mission to empower the next generation of African scholars and policy experts, the WBG Africa Fellowship Program offers selected fellows a six-month, hands-on experience at World Bank offices in Washington, D.C. or select country offices. During this time, fellows will contribute to research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations that help reduce poverty and promote shared prosperity.
Since its inception, the program has built a strong talent pipeline for roles in:
- International organizations
- Government ministries
- Academia
- Development think tanks
Benefits of the Fellowship
- Six-month paid consultancy at the World Bank Group (January–June 2026)
- Work directly on global and regional development projects
- Exposure to policy formulation and WBG operations
- Consultant fees and round-trip economy-class airfare to Washington, D.C. or a regional WBG office
- Access to global networks and mentorship from leading development experts
- Possibility of longer-term opportunities in development sectors
Who Is Eligible:
To apply, candidates must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be a Sub-Saharan African national
- Be enrolled in the final year of a Ph.D. program or a recent Ph.D. graduate (within the last 3 years)
- Be under 32 years of age by the application deadline
- Demonstrate excellent command of English (written and verbal)
- Possess strong quantitative and analytical skills
The Selection Process
Phase I: Shortlisting
A group of top candidates will be shortlisted and matched with WBG departments based on specialization and interest.
Phase II: Final Selection
The final list of fellows will be determined through consultation with WBG units. Selected candidates will be notified and hired as Short-Term Consultants.
Key Dates
- Application Opens: July 1, 2025
- Deadline to Apply: August 25, 2025
- Fellowship Start Date: January 2026
How to Apply:
You can submit your application online via the official fellowship portal:
Be sure to have all your documents ready and tailor your application to highlight your academic achievements, research interests, and alignment with the World Bank development goals.
More Information:
Check for other Fellowship Opportunities
Join the AfaRise Fellowship by Africa Futures Lab 2025
GovAI Winter fellowship 2026 in London ,UK (Fully Funded)
Chatham House Senior Research Fellow Program 2025
ACEP Next Generation Resource Governance Leaders Program 2026 for Young Africans | Fully Funded
