Africa Fellowship Program

The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program supports early-career African scholars by placing them in six-month assignments at WBG offices.

What it offers

• A six-month assignment at WBG headquarters in Washington, D.C. or a country office
• Hands-on experience in research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations
• Contributions to the WBG’s goals of eliminating poverty and increasing shared prosperity

Who can apply

• Recent Ph.D. graduates within three years of completion or those in the last year of a Ph.D. program
• Nationals of Sub-Saharan Africa
• Age 32 or younger by January 1, 2027
• Excellent command of English, both written and verbal
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills
• Women are encouraged to apply

What you'll do

• Work on research, economic policy, technical assistance, and lending operations
• Gain experience in knowledge generation and dissemination, policy design, and institution building
• Contribute to inclusive growth in developing countries

How to apply

• Application Launch: July 15, 2026
• Application Deadline: August 25, 2026
• Click here to apply

Good to know

• The program aims to build a pipeline of young African talent for careers in development, international institutions, African governments, think tanks, and academia
• Only shortlisted applicants will be notified after the selection process
• Selected candidates will be hired as Extended Term Consultants (ETCs) for the six-month fellowship starting January 2027