The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is now accepting applications from outstanding young African scholars.
Are you a PhD candidate in your final year or a recent PhD graduate from Sub-Saharan Africa looking to advance your research and gain international professional experience? This prestigious and fully funded fellowship offers participants the opportunity to work with World Bank experts while contributing to development projects that make a real impact across Africa and beyond.
If you dream of building a career in international development, economics, public policy, research, or data analysis, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity to gain valuable global experience.
Quick Fellowship Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship | World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 |
| Organization | World Bank Group |
| Location | Washington, D.C., USA or a World Bank Country Office |
| Fellowship Duration | 6 Months |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Application Deadline | August 25, 2026 |
| Fellowship Begins | January 2027 |
| Application Method | See the “How to Apply” section below |
About the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program helps develop the next generation of African researchers and development professionals.
Selected fellows will spend six months working alongside World Bank experts on research, economic policy, development programmes, and projects that address important challenges facing developing countries.
This fellowship also gives participants valuable international work experience while building professional networks with experts from around the world.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Be 32 years old or younger as of January 1, 2027.
- Be a PhD candidate in the final year of study or have completed a PhD within the last three years.
- Have excellent English language skills.
- Possess strong quantitative, analytical, and research skills.
The World Bank Group strongly encourages women to apply.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
- Fully funded six-month fellowship.
- Placement at the World Bank headquarters in Washington, D.C., or a World Bank country office.
- Hands-on experience working with leading international development experts.
- Professional mentorship and career development opportunities.
- Exposure to global development projects and research.
- International networking opportunities.
If you know students preparing for undergraduate studies abroad, you may also like our guide to the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, one of Canada’s most prestigious fully funded scholarships for international students.
Why You Should Apply
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program is more than just a fellowship. It provides an opportunity to gain practical experience at one of the world’s leading development institutions while strengthening your research, policy, and analytical skills.
If you hope to build a career with organizations such as the World Bank, United Nations, African Development Bank, or other international institutions, this fellowship can be an excellent stepping stone.
If you’re interested in exploring more opportunities with the World Bank Group, you may also like our guide to the World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) 2027, one of the organization’s most prestigious leadership programmes for early-career professionals.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program Portal.
Before submitting your application:
- Review all eligibility requirements carefully.
- Prepare your academic and supporting documents.
- Complete the online application accurately.
- Submit your application before August 25, 2026.
JacyLaura’s Career Tip
Competition for international fellowships is high, but don’t let that discourage you. If you meet the eligibility requirements, submit a well-prepared application and clearly highlight your research achievements, leadership experience, and the impact of your work. A strong application can set you apart.
Related Opportunities
If you’re interested in international opportunities from the World Bank Group, you may also like:
- World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) 2027
- Shell Graduate Programme 2027: International Graduate Opportunities
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship 2027 in Canada | Fully Funded Undergraduate Scholarship
You may also find these career guides helpful:
- The Ultimate Guide to Writing an ATS-Friendly Resume for International Remote Jobs
- How to Write an Executive Summary for a Business Plan
Final Thoughts
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2027 is an outstanding opportunity for talented PhD candidates and recent graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa who want to contribute to international development while gaining world-class professional experience.
If you are eligible, don’t wait until the deadline. Start preparing your documents now and submit your application before August 25, 2026.
We wish you success in your application!
