The World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is now accepting applications from outstanding PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa. This prestigious six-month fellowship provides emerging African scholars with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the World Bank Group Headquarters in Washington, D.C., or a World Bank country office, while contributing to research, economic policy, and development projects that advance poverty reduction and shared prosperity.
If you are passionate about international development, economics, public policy, governance, or sustainable development, this fellowship offers an exceptional pathway to launch or strengthen your global career.
Key Details
- Host Organization: World Bank Group (WBG)
- Programme: Africa Fellowship Program 2027
- Location: Washington, D.C., USA, or World Bank Group Country Offices
- Duration: 6 Months
- Programme Starts: January 2027
- Application Opens: July 15, 2026
- Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
- Eligible Applicants: Final-year PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates (within three years of PhD completion)
- Eligible Nationalities: Nationals of Sub-Saharan African countries
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be 32 years old or younger as of January 1, 2027
- Language Requirement: Excellent written and spoken English
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply.
About the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program was established to develop the next generation of African experts in development research and policymaking. Since its inception, the programme has created a strong pipeline of talented African professionals who have gone on to build successful careers in international organizations, government institutions, think tanks, academia, and development agencies.
Selected fellows spend six months embedded within World Bank teams, gaining practical experience in designing policies, conducting research, supporting technical assistance, and contributing to development operations aimed at reducing poverty and promoting inclusive economic growth.
Throughout the fellowship, participants collaborate with leading economists, researchers, and policy specialists while expanding their professional networks and strengthening their expertise in international development.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- A six-month professional placement at the World Bank Group Headquarters or a country office
- Hands-on experience working on real-world international development projects
- Opportunities to contribute to economic policy, research, technical assistance, and lending operations
- Mentorship from leading World Bank professionals
- Exposure to global development challenges and policy solutions
- Valuable international work experience that enhances future career opportunities
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify 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 programme or have completed a PhD within the last three years
- Be 32 years old or younger by January 1, 2027
- Demonstrate excellent written and spoken English
- Possess strong quantitative, analytical, and research skills
Selection Process
The fellowship selection takes place in two stages.
Phase One
Applications are reviewed, and qualified candidates are shortlisted based on their academic background, research experience, and area of specialization. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Phase Two
Shortlisted applicants are considered by relevant World Bank Group departments. Final selections are made based on organizational needs and candidates’ expertise. Successful fellows will be appointed as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) for six months beginning in January 2027.
Why You Should Apply
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship offers far more than professional experience. It provides an opportunity to:
- Work alongside internationally recognized development experts
- Build practical skills in development economics and public policy
- Expand your global professional network
- Contribute to projects that improve lives across developing countries
- Strengthen your career prospects in international organizations, governments, research institutions, and academia
For aspiring African development professionals, this fellowship is one of the continent’s most prestigious career development opportunities.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their applications through the official World Bank Group application portal before the closing date.
Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
Apply early to avoid last-minute technical issues and ensure your application is submitted successfully.
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for talented African PhD students and recent graduates to gain international experience, contribute to high-impact development initiatives, and work with one of the world’s leading development institutions. If you aspire to influence policy, conduct impactful research, and drive sustainable development across Africa and beyond, this fellowship is an opportunity you should not miss.
