The Robert S. McNamara Fellowships Program (RSMFP) is one of the World Bank Scholarships Scheme that provides support to citizens from developing countries who are current PhD candidates studying in developing countries. Further, the World Bank Scholarships provide funding up to $25,000 to conduct PhD research on developing countries in a World Bank member country other than the Fellow’s home country or country of residence. This is a wonderful opportunity for the most promising developing nation researchers to advance their doctoral work with the best international advisors and host institutions in their fields of study.

The call for RSMFP fellowship applications from PhD candidates is now open until the application deadline of May 2, 2019. RSMFP was established in 1982. The Fellowship program received $2.8 million in funding from the World Bank and the governments of Bangladesh, China, India, Kuwait, Nigeria, Pakistan, Peru, and former Yugoslavia.

Benefits of World Bank Scholarships

RSMFP provides up to $25,000 (U.S.) for developing country nationals to travel abroad to conduct development-related PhD research. Further, the fellows will work under the supervision of a host advisor at a university, research or development institution in a World Bank member country. The Scholarship covers a 6 to 10 month period. Details on eligible expenditures are provided in the Application Guidelines.

Eligibility

• Be a national of a World Bank member country that is eligible to receive World Bank financing.
• Not be a dual citizen of any country that is not eligible to receive World Bank financing.
• Be enrolled in a PhD program in a World Bank member country that is eligible to receive World Bank financing.
• While enrolled in a PhD program, applicants must be residing in a World Bank member country that is eligible to receive World Bank financing.
• Have completed all coursework and exams required by your PhD program at the time you submit your application.
• Be 35 years or younger on the Application Deadline date
• Not previously been the recipient of a fellowship from RSMFP.

How To Apply

• Applicants must upload a proposed budget to use the World Bank Scholarships for PhD research on developing countries in the application.
• Secure the support of a Host Institution Research Advisor and your PhD Thesis Supervisor
• A list typed in English of your publications that are peer reviewed and accepted in professionally edited publications, such as research journals.
• Likewise, Photocopy of proof of employment from your current employer.
• Photocopy of an official document from your University that indicates you are either currently a PhD student; or currently enrolled in a research-onlyPhD program
• Also, Photocopy of the diploma/certificate of your most advanced university degree

Applicants may submit their candidature once they meet all the eligibility criteria as well as prepare all the aforementioned documents. Applications are available online.

Deadline

The deadline for application is May 2, 2019. Applicants looking forward to receiving the World Bank Scholarships must complete the application process before the deadline.