The AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026 is a prestigious fellowship designed for eligible African researchers who want to strengthen their research skills while collaborating with leading economists and development experts at the World Bank. Organized by the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) in partnership with the World Bank, the programme provides selected scholars with an opportunity to spend up to four months conducting policy-relevant research and expanding their professional networks.
The programme is jointly organized by the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) and the World Bank to support high-quality research that contributes to Africa’s economic growth and development.
Selected visiting scholars will have the opportunity to spend up to four months at the World Bank, where they will receive mentorship, collaborate with experienced researchers, and further develop research that addresses key development challenges across Africa.
If you are an eligible AERC researcher seeking international research exposure and professional development, this fellowship is an excellent opportunity to advance your academic and policy career.
Quick Facts
| Programme | AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program |
|---|---|
| Host Institutions | African Economic Research Consortium (AERC) & World Bank |
| Programme Type | Visiting Research Fellowship |
| Duration | Up to 4 Months |
| Eligible Applicants | Eligible AERC Researchers |
| Location | World Bank |
| Application Method | Online |
| Category | Fellowship |
Table of Contents
- About the Programme
- Fellowship Overview
- Fellowship Benefits
- Research Areas
- Why Apply?
- Who Can Apply?
- Eligibility Requirements
- Required Documents
- How to Apply
- Official Application Link
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
About the Programme
The AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program is designed to strengthen research capacity by providing eligible African researchers with an opportunity to work closely with World Bank experts.
The programme promotes collaboration between researchers and policymakers while supporting evidence-based research that addresses Africa’s most pressing economic and development issues.
Participants gain valuable international research experience, expand their professional networks, and contribute to policy discussions that can influence development across the continent.
Fellowship Overview
The programme allows selected scholars to spend up to four months at the World Bank.
During the fellowship, participants will:
- Collaborate with World Bank researchers.
- Receive mentorship from experienced economists and policy experts.
- Improve the quality of their ongoing research.
- Participate in seminars and knowledge-sharing activities.
- Strengthen research that informs public policy and economic development.
Fellowship Benefits
Successful applicants may benefit from:
- ✅ Up to four months of research collaboration at the World Bank.
- ✅ Mentorship from internationally recognized researchers.
- ✅ Opportunities to strengthen research methodology.
- ✅ Professional networking with global development experts.
- ✅ Participation in seminars, workshops, and policy discussions.
- ✅ Enhanced research visibility and academic development.
Research Areas
The programme supports research related to Africa’s economic and development priorities, including areas such as:
- Economic Growth
- Poverty Reduction
- Public Finance
- Trade and Regional Integration
- Agriculture
- Climate Change
- Governance
- Human Capital Development
- Macroeconomic Policy
- Financial Sector Development
- Sustainable Development
Applicants should ensure their research aligns with the programme’s objectives.
Why Apply?
The AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program offers participants the opportunity to:
- Conduct research in an internationally respected institution.
- Receive expert guidance from experienced World Bank researchers.
- Expand professional and academic networks.
- Improve the policy relevance of their research.
- Contribute to development solutions for Africa.
Who Can Apply?
Important: This fellowship is not open to the general public.
It is intended for eligible AERC-affiliated researchers, including researchers participating in AERC programmes and those with qualifying AERC-supported research activities.
Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility criteria before applying.
Official Fellowship Information & Application
Interested applicants should visit the official AERC website for complete eligibility requirements and application instructions.
🎓 Official Fellowship Page:
https://aercafrica.org/opportunities/aerc-world-bank-visiting-scholars-program-2026-call-for-applications/
🌐 African Economic Research Consortium (AERC):
https://aercafrica.org/
🏛️ World Bank:
https://www.worldbank.org/
Application Deadline: 22 August 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline and ensure that all required documents are complete.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026, applicants must meet the programme’s eligibility requirements as outlined by the African Economic Research Consortium (AERC).
Generally, applicants should:
- Be an AERC-affiliated researcher.
- Be participating in an AERC-supported research programme, such as the Collaborative PhD Programme (CPP), or have an active AERC research project.
- Be conducting research relevant to Africa’s economic and development priorities.
- Demonstrate strong academic and research capabilities.
- Be committed to producing high-quality policy-relevant research.
Applicants should carefully review the official programme guidelines before applying.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Completed Application Form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research Proposal or Research Concept Note
- Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter
- Academic Certificates (if requested)
- Recommendation Letter(s), where applicable
- Any additional supporting documents required by AERC
Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and submitted before the deadline.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Step 1
Visit the official AERC Visiting Scholars Program webpage.
Step 2
Read the eligibility requirements carefully.
Step 3
Prepare all required application documents.
Step 4
Complete the application according to the instructions provided by AERC.
Step 5
Submit all required documents before the application deadline.
Step 6
Wait for communication from AERC regarding the outcome of your application.
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for the next stage of the selection process.
Selection Process
Applications are assessed based on several factors, including:
- Academic and research excellence.
- Relevance and quality of the proposed research.
- Alignment with AERC’s research priorities.
- Potential contribution to African economic and development policy.
- Overall quality of the application.
Successful applicants will be selected to participate in the visiting research programme at the World Bank.
Application Timeline
📅 Application Deadline: 22 August 2026
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications early to avoid last-minute technical issues and to ensure all required documents are included.
Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
✅ Confirmed your eligibility
✅ Updated your Curriculum Vitae (CV)
✅ Prepared your research proposal or concept note
✅ Completed all required application documents
✅ Reviewed your application for accuracy
✅ Submitted before the deadline
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
To improve your chances of selection:
- Present a well-structured and relevant research proposal.
- Demonstrate how your research addresses important development issues in Africa.
- Highlight your previous research achievements and publications.
- Clearly explain how participating in the programme will strengthen your research.
- Submit a complete and professionally prepared application.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Applying without meeting the eligibility requirements.
- Submitting incomplete application documents.
- Providing a weak or unclear research proposal.
- Missing the application deadline.
- Ignoring the official application instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this fellowship open to everyone?
No. The programme is specifically designed for eligible AERC-affiliated researchers and is not open to the general public.
How long does the fellowship last?
Selected scholars may spend up to four months at the World Bank as part of the programme.
Where will the fellowship take place?
The fellowship is hosted at the World Bank, where participants work with experienced researchers and development specialists.
What is the main objective of the programme?
The programme aims to strengthen research capacity, promote collaboration between African researchers and World Bank experts, and support research that contributes to Africa’s economic development.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 22 August 2026.
Why You Should Apply
The AERC–World Bank Visiting Scholars Program 2026 provides an outstanding opportunity for eligible African researchers to collaborate with leading experts, strengthen their research, and contribute to evidence-based policy solutions for Africa. Beyond the research experience, participants gain valuable international exposure, professional networks, and mentorship that can significantly enhance their academic and policy careers.
Official Fellowship Information & Application
Applicants should always rely on the official programme pages for the latest information.
🎓 Official Fellowship Page:
https://aercafrica.org/opportunities/aerc-world-bank-visiting-scholars-program-2026-call-for-applications/
🌐 African Economic Research Consortium (AERC):
https://aercafrica.org/
🏛️ World Bank:
https://www.worldbank.org/
Always check the official website for updated eligibility requirements, application procedures, and programme announcements.
Related Opportunities
You may also be interested in:
- Rhodes Scholarship for West Africa
- KAIST International Graduate Scholarship
- University of Manchester Equity & Merit Scholarships
- University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholarships
- European Commission Blue Book Traineeship
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