Country Focussed
Global Scholarship
Scholarship Type
Merit Based
Organising Entity
World Bank Group
Scholarship Coverage
Partly Funded
Robert S McNamara Fellowships Program
Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program (RSMFP), offered by the World Bank, is a prestigious opportunity for Ph.D. candidates from developing countries to advance their research in the field of international development. It is specifically designed to connect doctoral students with leading policy research institutions and universities worldwide. By offering generous financial support and access to global academic networks, the fellowship helps foster the next generation of development economists and policy thinkers.
Why Study Abroad?
Studying Abroad offers a world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and access to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities. With a strong emphasis on research and innovation, Global institutions foster critical thinking and academic excellence. The multicultural environment, wide range of courses, and post-study work opportunities like the Graduate Route make abroad studying an attractive destination for Indian students seeking quality education and career growth on a global scale.
Everything You need to Know about the Robert S McNamara Fellowships Program
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship, applicants must meet a comprehensive list of academic, geographic, and professional criteria. The program is competitive and highly selective, targeting individuals deeply committed to solving developmental challenges.
The eligibility requirements include:
- Must be a citizen of a World Bank member developing country such as India, Bangladesh, China, Nigeria, etc.
- Must not hold dual citizenship with any non-developing (i.e., developed) country.
- Must be 35 years of age or younger on the application deadline date.
- Must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program in a World Bank member country and must have completed all required coursework and exams.
- Must reside in a developing member country at the time of application.
- You must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program in a World Bank member country and must have completed all required coursework and exams.
- Must not be a staff member of the World Bank Group, nor a close relative of someone who is.
The fellowship supports doctoral students who are actively finalizing their research or conducting fieldwork and data analysis in development economics or public policy.
Organising Entity
World Bank Group
The World Bank’s Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC) administers the RSMFP, promoting research and data-driven policy development worldwide. This program forms part of the broader World Bank Scholarships and Fellowships initiative that empowers scholars from developing member countries.
Is it Country Focused?
Yes. The fellowship is specifically targeted at citizens of developing countries that are members of the World Bank. This includes a wide range of countries across Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Eastern Europe. Notably, applicants must be residing in one of these countries at the time of applying, reinforcing the program’s objective of supporting in-country academic growth and global exposure.
Is it University Focused?
No, the RSMFP does not limit applicants to a specific university or institution. However, selected fellows are expected to conduct their research at a recognised international host institution, typically one that is partnered or collaborating with the World Bank.
Type of Scholarship
Merit-Based
The RSMFP selects candidates strictly based on academic merit, research potential, and how relevant their research is to developmental issues. It does not consider income-based (need-based) eligibility. Only the most competitive applicants who show exceptional promise in development research are chosen.
Number of Students Selected
The number of fellows selected varies from year to year, based on the volume of applications, funding availability, and academic merit of the candidates. While there is no fixed quota, the program is highly competitive, typically awarding fellowships to a small, select group of outstanding Ph.D. candidates from developing countries.
What are the Benefits Available
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowship provides a generous stipend to support fellows while they conduct their doctoral research abroad. The benefits include:
- Financial award of up to USD 44,888 for each selected fellow
- You can use the funds to cover your residency expenses in the host country, including travel, accommodation, health insurance, and daily living costs.
- Increased visibility within the international development community, potentially enhancing post-doctoral career prospects
- Access to leading development research institutions, offering exposure to cutting-edge policy work
- Opportunities to engage with World Bank researchers and partner organizations, gaining real-world insights into global development policy
Why Choose the Robert S McNamara Fellowships Program?
Offers generous funding to support independent, high-impact research
Provides access to international academic institutions and policy researchers
Enhances your academic credibility and builds global connections
Supports your professional journey toward becoming a development economist or policy advisor
Enables research that can influence policymaking and contribute to real-world development goals
How to Apply for the Robert S McNamara Fellowships Program
The application process is conducted online via the World Bank’s official scholarship portal during the announced application cycle.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official scholarship page to check the current application timeline and eligibility criteria.
- Prepare your application package, which includes:
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
- A Ph.D. research proposal (up to 3,000 words) outlining objectives, methodology, and development relevance
- A statement of purpose (SOP) that highlights your academic journey, motivation, and contributions to the field
- Two academic reference letters, submitted directly to the World Bank
- Proof of enrollment in a Ph.D. program, including confirmation of completed coursework and comprehensive exams
- Proof of nationality, age, and residency
- A detailed curriculum vitae (CV)
- Submit the complete application through the online portal before the deadline.
Shortlisted candidates may be asked for further documentation or interviews during the selection process.
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Final Thoughts
This fellowship is ideal for those who wish to influence change in their home countries and contribute to solving the global challenges of poverty, inequality, and sustainable growth.
If you’re a driven Ph.D. scholar committed to shaping the future of development policy, the Robert S. McNamara Fellowship Program is a gateway to global research networks, hands-on policy exposure, and financial empowerment during a critical stage of your academic journey.
