Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program 2025
Embark on your academic journey anywhere in the world with the Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program. Applications are now open for 2025-2026. This article provides detailed information about the fellowship, its benefits, and the step-by-step application process.
Overview
Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program is a fully funded scholarship for international students pursuing PhD studies. The fellowship provides recipients with up to $42,750 net for an 8-month period.
This program, offered by the World Bank, supports PhD candidates from developing countries to conduct innovative, development-related research under the guidance of a study consultant at a partner organization abroad through a 6-10 month residency.
Key Program Features
Professional Experience: Fellows work on World Bank projects under the supervision of World Bank DEC researchers, receiving training on advanced research practices and technologies. They will engage in World Bank operations, contribute to DEC’s published work, co-author with DEC researchers, join field missions, and interact directly with clients.
Capacity Building: Fellows undergo a one-week technical onboarding, which includes training on reproducible research practices. Throughout the program, they participate in continuing education trainings and events to enhance their skills. Working with DEC economists, fellows will improve their ability to identify, study, and write about significant development policy questions.
Research Dissemination: Fellows are invited to write a blog based on their fellowship research with DEC researchers. This offers a platform to showcase their research and contribute to development policy discussions. The top four blogs each year will be published on DEC’s Let’s Talk Development blog.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: PhD
- Institution: World Bank
- Study Locations: Any country
- Courses Offered: Applicants can choose to be hosted by the Development Research Department or the Impact Evaluation Department within the World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC).
- Deadline: February 28, 2025
Scholarship Coverage
The Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program offers:
- A total stipend of $42,750 net for an 8-month fellowship (paid in monthly installments).
- Visa application assistance provided by the World Bank’s HR department, including invitation letters for the selected candidates.
Note: The fellowship does not cover visa application costs, travel expenses, or any expenses for family members.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Required Language: English
- Eligible Countries: Nationals of World Bank WBG member countries, with preference given to nationals of developing countries.
- Education: Graduates of MA level studies or currently pursuing a PhD in Economics or a related field.
- Age: No more than 35 years old by June 30th of the year the fellowship starts.
- Location: Available to relocate to Washington, D.C. for the duration of the fellowship.
How to Apply
To apply for the Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program, follow these instructions:
- Complete the Online Application: The application must be submitted online by the deadline and include:
- A resume.
- A statement of research interests detailing your research focus and indicating the research programs of interest within DEC.
- Contact details for a letter of recommendation.
- A writing sample (optional).
- A code sample (optional).
Note: All required documents must be uploaded online. Documents submitted via email, post, or any method other than the online application form will not be reviewed.
Website
For more information about the Robert S. McNamara Scholarship Program, please visit the official website.
Embark on your academic journey with theRobert S. McNamara Scholarship Program and contribute to global development research!
