Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP)
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program provides support to young researchers from developing countries working on development-related topics, connecting them to World Bank research and technical expertise in Washington D.C.
Quick Facts
Status
Funding
Fully FundedDeadline
Check official source guidelines as dates vary by cycle
Country
United StatesAll United States guidesEvery United States scholarship in one place→About the Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program
The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP), administered by the World Bank's Development Economics Vice Presidency (DEC), has provided support to young researchers since 1982. The program connects promising young researchers to World Bank research, data resources, and technical expertise.
Selected fellows are hosted as a cohort at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C. During their time at the World Bank, fellows work on DEC research projects, receive formal training, and participate in policy relevant research.
The program focuses on a wide variety of topics in development-related fields, aiming to build research capacity and expertise among young professionals from developing countries who are dedicated to addressing global economic development challenges.
By embedding researchers directly within the World Bank research environment, the fellowship bridges academic study and practical policy implementation, equipping participants with advanced analytical tools and empirical data methodologies.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Direct immersion in World Bank research teams in Washington D.C.
Access to vast proprietary datasets and global development experts
Formal training sessions integrated into the fellowship period
Networking opportunities with international researchers and policymakers
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in United States
Fellows are hosted physically at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C., United States.
Eligibility Requirements
4 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Check the World Bank Scholarships Program portal for active fellowship calls
Prepare required research documents and academic credentials
Submit the application through the designated World Bank online submission system
Undergo independent review and evaluation by World Bank assessors
Application Timeline
Varies by annual cycle
Application Opening
Announced on the official World Bank Scholarships website
Following application close
Selection and Review
Evaluated by World Bank assessors
Fellowship start date
Cohort Placement
Fellows relocate to Washington D.C.
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Align your research proposal closely with ongoing World Bank Development Economics Vice Presidency priorities
Ensure your academic background strongly demonstrates quantitative and empirical research skills
Secure detailed recommendations from senior academics familiar with your research output
Monitor the World Bank scholarships portal regularly for exact opening and closing dates
Frequently Asked Questions
4 questions - click any to expand
It is a World Bank fellowship that brings young researchers from developing countries to Washington D.C. to work on DEC research projects and participate in formal training.
Selected fellows are hosted as a cohort at the World Bank headquarters in Washington D.C.
Young researchers from developing countries who focus on development-related topics and meet the specific academic and professional criteria set by the World Bank.
Fellows work on Development Economics Vice Presidency research projects, access World Bank data resources, receive formal training, and engage in policy relevant research.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - check official source. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
More Scholarships to Explore
Other opportunities you may qualify for
US-Pakistan Knowledge Corridor PhD Program
United States · Higher Education Commission
HEC Pakistan's flagship channel for sending Pakistani PhD scholars to top-ranked US universities. Funding tier depends on the university's QS ranking - full funding at QS Top-50 institutions, partial tuition support at QS 51-100. You secure your own admission first; HEC funds the placement.
📅Deadline: Typically around April 30 (varies by annua…
Knight-Hennessy Scholars (Stanford University)
United States · Stanford University
One of the most competitive graduate scholarships in the world, fully funding any Stanford graduate degree (master's, PhD, JD, MD, or MBA) for up to three years, alongside a dedicated leadership development program. Open to applicants of any nationality.
📅Deadline: Early October (annual, e.g. around October…
Harvard College Financial Aid (International Students)
United States · Harvard College
Harvard has no separate named scholarship for international undergraduates. Instead, it admits all applicants need-blind regardless of citizenship and commits to meeting 100 percent of demonstrated financial need through grants, not loans, for every admitted student.
📅Deadline: CSS Profile due around February 1 (Regular…
Reopens: Varies - check official source