AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026: Fully Funded Research Fellowship for African Scholars
African researchers can now apply for the fully funded AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026
The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026 has officially opened applications, offering a fully funded opportunity for African researchers to collaborate with leading economists and policy experts at the World Bank.
Organized through a partnership between the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) and the World Bank, the initiative allows selected scholars to spend four to six months at the World Bank, where they will strengthen their research, build international collaborations, and contribute to studies focused on Africa’s economic development.
The program targets experienced researchers within the AERC network and is designed to improve research quality while creating stronger links between African academics and global development institutions. Applications close on September 6, 2026.
What Is the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program?
The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program is a prestigious fellowship that enables African researchers to work directly with economists in the World Bank’s Africa Region.
During the fellowship, participants will conduct independent research while collaborating with the Office of the Chief Economist for Africa Region (DECAF). The program also provides access to World Bank research resources, mentorship opportunities, seminars, and capacity-building activities.
The initiative aims to generate research that addresses Africa’s most pressing economic challenges while supporting evidence-based policymaking across the continent.
Who Can Apply for the 2026 Fellowship?
Applications are open exclusively to researchers within the AERC network.
Eligible applicants must:
- Be an AERC researcher, including participants in the AERC Collaborative PhD Programme (CPP).
- Have an active AERC research project at either the interim, post-fieldwork, or final paper stage.
- Conduct research aligned with the World Bank Africa Region’s development priorities.
- Demonstrate the potential to contribute to policy-oriented research focused on sustainable African development.
The organizers also encourage applications from women researchers, as well as Francophone and Lusophone scholars, to promote broader regional representation.
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Benefits of the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program
Selected scholars will receive a fully funded research placement at the World Bank.
Participants will:
- Spend four to six months at the World Bank.
- Collaborate with senior World Bank researchers.
- Participate in DECAF research activities.
- Access specialized training and professional development.
- Revise their research paper for submission to the World Bank Working Paper Series and a high-ranking academic journal.
- Present their research through seminars.
- Expand professional networks with international researchers.
- Contribute to ongoing World Bank research projects focused on Africa.
Only two scholars are expected to be selected for the 2026/2027 cohort, making the fellowship highly competitive.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A two-page statement of interest.
- A draft research paper relevant to Africa’s development priorities.
- Course materials they wish to improve while visiting the World Bank (if applicable).
- An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Applications must be emailed to:
Late submissions will not be accepted.
How to Apply
Interested applicants should visit the official program webpage, prepare all required documents, and email their complete application package before September 6, 2026.
Applicants should carefully review eligibility requirements before submission, as incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
FAQ
What is the AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program?
The AERC-World Bank Visiting Scholars Program is a fully funded fellowship that allows eligible African researchers to spend four to six months at the World Bank conducting research on Africa’s economic development.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be members of the AERC research network, including Collaborative PhD Programme researchers, and have an active research project relevant to the World Bank Africa Region’s development agenda.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship provides full sponsorship for the research visit, professional collaboration, training, and access to World Bank research resources.
How long does the fellowship last?
Selected scholars will spend between four and six months at the World Bank.
Where is the fellowship hosted?
The program is hosted by the World Bank in the United States.
How many scholars will be selected?
Up to two scholars are expected to be selected for the 2026/2027 cohort.
What documents are required?
Applicants must submit a statement of interest, draft research paper, updated CV, and relevant teaching materials if applicable.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted no later than September 6, 2026.
How should applications be submitted?
Applications should be emailed to [email protected], with a copy sent to [email protected].
What research topics are accepted?
Research should focus on economic development in Africa and align with the World Bank Africa Region’s research priorities.
Can women apply?
Yes. Women, along with Francophone and Lusophone researchers, are especially encouraged to apply.
What are the benefits of participating?
Participants gain international research experience, collaborate with World Bank experts, strengthen their publications, expand professional networks, and contribute to policy-focused research that supports Africa’s development.