PostdocFully Funded

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP)

The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program is for aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries, providing an 8-month fellowship at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., working with World Bank research economists on policy-relevant research. The program offers professional experience, capacity building, and research dissemination opportunities, and is fully funded. However, the program is currently not accepting applications as of July 16, 2024. For future consideration, candidates should regularly check the official World Bank Scholarships website for updates.

Provider: Joint Japan World Bank
Host country: Multiple
Deadline: The program is currently not receiving applications.

Official source

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) is open to African students applying to study in Multiple at the Postdoc level, with fully funded funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Postdoc · applicants for Multiple
Funding: Fully Funded
Study level: Postdoc
Deadline: The program is currently not receiving applications.

Key eligibility criteria

The program is currently not receiving applications. Historically, candidates were "aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries."

What the fully funded award covers

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare

About the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) (2026)

# Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) ## Overview The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP), offered by the World Bank, is designed for aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries. This prestigious program facilitates a unique opportunity for fellows to engage in rigorous, policy-relevant research within the World Bank's Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC). Fellows are hosted at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., for an 8-month period, typically from September to May each year. They work under the direct supervision of researchers from the World Bank's Development Impact (DIME) and Development Research Group departments. The program aims to expose fellows to current research standards, enhance their econometric skills, and foster networking with leading researchers in the field. This immersive experience allows fellows to contribute to high-quality research, broaden their understanding of development questions, and explore how their research can address challenges in the developing world. ## Benefits Participants in the RSMFP receive a fully funded fellowship that provides comprehensive support for their research and professional development. Beyond financial assistance, the program offers several key benefits: * **Professional Experience**: Fellows actively work on World Bank projects, guided by DEC researchers. They receive training in cutting-edge research practices and technologies and engage with World Bank operations. Depending on project needs, fellows may contribute to published work, co-author with DEC researchers, participate in field missions, or directly interact with World Bank clients, gaining invaluable practical experience. * **Capacity Building**: The program commences with a one-week technical onboarding, which includes training on reproducible research practices. Throughout the fellowship, participants attend hands-on training sessions and seminars led by top economists, meticulously designed to further enhance their skills. Working alongside DEC economists, fellows refine their ability to identify, analyze, and articulate important development policy questions effectively. * **Research Dissemination**: Fellows are encouraged to write a blog post based on their fellowship research within DEC. This serves as a significant platform to showcase their research findings and contribute to broader development policy discussions. Each year, the top four blogs are selected for publication on DEC’s "Let's Talk Development" blog, offering considerable exposure. ## Eligibility The official page for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program states: "**_The RSMFP program is no longer receiving applications_**". While the program is currently not accepting new applications, historically, the fellowships are for "young researchers to study in the fields related to economic development" and are open to "aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries." Prospective applicants would typically need to meet specific academic and professional requirements relevant to development economics, likely including a postgraduate degree (such as a PhD) or substantial research experience in relevant fields. The specific nationality requirements would usually specify eligibility for citizens of World Bank member countries, particularly those categorized as developing countries. ## Required Documents The official source does not explicitly list required documents as the program is currently not accepting applications. However, based on the nature of a research fellowship at the World Bank for aspiring development economists, it is highly probable that applicants would have been required to submit a comprehensive set of documents including, but not limited to: * **Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume**: Detailing academic qualifications, professional experience, research output, and any publications. * **Research Proposal**: Outlining a clear and concise research plan relevant to development economics and aligned with the World Bank's research agenda. * **Academic Transcripts**: Official records of academic performance from all higher education institutions attended. * **Letters of Recommendation**: Typically from academic or professional supervisors who can attest to the applicant's research capabilities and potential. * **Proof of English Proficiency**: As the primary language of the World Bank is English, evidence of strong English language skills (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS scores) would likely be required for non-native speakers. * **Personal Statement or Essay**: Explaining the applicant's motivation for applying, their career aspirations, and how the fellowship aligns with their goals. * **Writing Sample**: A piece of academic writing or a research paper to demonstrate research and writing abilities. ## How to Apply The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program is **currently not receiving applications**. The official page explicitly states: "**_The RSMFP program is no longer receiving applications_**." Therefore, there is no active application process at this time. In the past, and for similar programs, the application process would typically involve an online application portal accessible through the official World Bank scholarships website. Applicants would generally be required to create an account, complete an application form, and upload all necessary supporting documents by a specified deadline. It is advisable for interested individuals to regularly check the official World Bank Scholarships website for any future announcements regarding the resumption of the program or changes to the application cycle. ## Key Dates The official page currently states that "The RSMFP program is no longer receiving applications," meaning there are no active key dates for the application cycle. However, the program description mentions that fellows are hosted for "8 months (September to May each year)." This indicates that when the program is active and accepting applications, the selection process and onboarding would be scheduled to allow fellows to commence their 8-month tenure in September. Therefore, previous application deadlines would have been significantly earlier in the year to accommodate the review, selection, and preparatory phases before the September start date. Historically, application periods for such fellowships often occur several months in advance of the program start. ## Selection Criteria While the specific, detailed selection criteria are not explicitly listed on the current page, the description of the program offers strong indicators of what was (and likely would be) prioritized in the selection process. The Selection Committee, comprised of World Bank DEC directors, makes decisions "based on the selection criteria and fellowships development objectives." Key implicit criteria include: * **Research Potential and Expertise**: A strong background in development economics research, evidenced by academic qualifications, prior research work, and publications or strong writing samples. The program seeks "aspiring development economics researchers" to participate in "rigorous policy-relevant research." * **Alignment with World Bank Research**: The ability to contribute to and benefit from research projects within the World Bank's Development Economics Vice Presidency, particularly those conducted by the Development Impact (DIME) and Development Research Group departments. * **Developing Country Focus**: The program explicitly targets researchers from developing countries, indicating a strong emphasis on fellows whose work can address challenges in these regions. * **Analytical and Econometric Skills**: The program aims to help fellows "acquire new econometric skills," suggesting that a foundational understanding and aptitude for quantitative analysis are crucial. * **Commitment to Development**: A demonstrated interest and commitment to addressing development challenges through research. * **Collaboration and Networking Potential**: The willingness and ability to work effectively with World Bank DEC researchers and their external academic collaborators. ## Tips Given that the RSMFP is currently not accepting applications, the primary tip for prospective applicants is to monitor the official World Bank Scholarships website diligently for any future announcements. If the program resumes, the following general advice, based on the program

What the Fully Funded Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) eligibility for Multiple applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

The program is currently not receiving applications. Historically, candidates were "aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries."

Documents required for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Financial-need declaration or family-income statement (sponsor-specific template)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "The program is currently not receiving applications. Historically, candidates were "aspiring development economics researchers from developing countries."". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Apply to the host university or programme first where required, and obtain a conditional admission letter. A growing number of sponsors only fund applicants who already hold an offer.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a 500–1,000-word personal statement and any additional essays the sponsor specifies. Anchor each essay in concrete examples and tie your goals back to the sponsor's mission.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.worldbank.org/en/programs/scholarships/brief/robert-s-mcnamara-fellowships-program, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by The program is currently not receiving applications. (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Joint Japan World Bank will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) deadline & application timeline

The sponsor has not published a fixed deadline yet. Use the milestones below as a generic 12-month plan; substitute dates once the intake window opens.

12 months out
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP)?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Postdoc level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Joint Japan World Bank, and be able to relocate to the host country for the duration of the programme.

Is the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) fully funded?+

Funding model: Fully Funded. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is The program is currently not receiving applications.. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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