ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026-28 | Paid Fellowship

ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026: Have you ever dreamed of working internationally while contributing to meaningful public policy and global development? Here, have a great opportunity; the ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28 can transform your career.

Many graduates in economics, statistics, or development studies feel unsure after finishing university. They often wonder how to gain practical experience and work on real policy projects.
Many also want to know how to collaborate with governments and build a global career in public policy.

Governments around the world are facing many challenges today. They need experts in economic planning, data analysis, public finance, and development policy. Research from Statista and job insights from LinkedIn show that the demand for economists, statisticians, and policy analysts is steadily increasing in public institutions worldwide.

This is where the ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28 becomes an exceptional opportunity.

The program is offered by the respected global research organization, the Overseas Development Institute. It allows early-career professionals to work directly in government institutions in developing countries for two years.

During the fellowship, participants gain practical experience in policy development, economic research, and government decision-making. They also receive a competitive salary and build a global professional network while working.

I welcome by this article to the ambitious graduates who want to combine international experience, career growth, and meaningful impact. The ODI Fellowship can be a life-changing step.

About ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026

The ODI Fellowship Scheme is a prestigious international fellowship program run by the Overseas Development Institute. It is a globally recognized research institute based in London that focuses on international development and public policy.

The program places talented economists and statisticians in government ministries, central banks, and public institutions. These placements take place in low- and middle-income countries, where fellows support important policy work and development projects.

Fellows work as local civil servants under government supervision. They help with policy development, economic planning, data analysis, and strengthening government institutions.

This two-year program gives participants a unique chance to work inside government institutions. At the same time, they help countries improve public policies and development strategies while gaining valuable real-world experience.

Over the years, the fellowship has built a strong reputation for developing talented professionals. Many former fellows later move into leadership roles in international organizations, government agencies, and development institutions.

Let’s explore why this opportunity stands out among global fellowships.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants interested in the ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28 must meet the following requirements.

Educational Qualifications

Candidates must hold a master’s or PhD degree in fields such as-

• Economics
• Statistics
• Development Economics
• Econometrics
• Agricultural Economics
• Environmental Economics
• Health Economics
• International Economics

Applicants who are completing their postgraduate degree must finish it before the fellowship begins.

Language Requirements

• Strong English proficiency is required.
• French language skills are considered an advantage.

Professional Skills

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Applicants must demonstrate an interest in public policy development.
• Relevant work experience or internships
• Applicants should have IT skills and relevant work experience.
• Strong analytical, data interpretation, and communication skills are required.
• Data interpretation and communication skills

Personal Qualities

Successful candidates typically show:

• Leadership potential
• Ability to work independently
• Strong motivation to contribute to global development
• Interpersonal communication skills
• Flexibility and resilience

Applicants must also be willing to commit to the full two-year fellowship period.

Participating Countries

• ODI Fellows may work in the following countries:
  • Fiji
  • Ghana
  • Malawi
  • Papua New Guinea
  • Rwanda
  • Sierra Leone
  • Somaliland
  • Solomon Islands
  • The Gambia
  • Tonga
  • Uganda
  • Vanuatu
  • Zanzibar

Fields and Work Areas

Fellows can work in different sectors, including:

• Health
• Finance
• Regulatory Bodies
• Statistics
• Agriculture
• Education
• Economic Planning
• Central Banks
• Trade and Industry
• Environment

Many fellows are placed in government ministries such as finance or planning. They may also work in central banks, revenue authorities, and national statistical offices.

Roles of ODI Fellows

Participants in the fellowship may work as:

• Economists
• Statisticians
• Planning Officers
• Policy Analysts

They contribute to policy development, economic research, and data analysis.

At the same time, they work closely with government professionals and gain valuable practical experience.

Key Features

The ODI Fellowship Scheme offers much more than a typical fellowship. It provides real-world government experience and exposure to international development challenges.

Key learning areas include:

• Economic policy development
• Government data analysis and statistics
• Public financial management
• Policy research and evaluation
• Development economics practices
• Government decision-making processes

Also Read: Bayer Foundation Scientific Fellowships 2026 in Germany 

Career Opportunities After the ODI Fellowship

Completing the ODI Fellowship Scheme can open doors to several global career opportunities.

Common career paths include the following:

• Development Economist
• Policy Analyst
• Government Advisor
• Economic Researcher
• International Development Consultant
• Data Analyst

Special Benefits of the ODI Fellowship

The ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28 offers several financial and professional benefits.

Financial Benefits

• £32,600 salary in the first year
• £34,600 salary in the second year
• Housing allowance included

Professional Benefits

• Experience working in government institutions
• Exposure to international development policy
• Networking opportunities with global professionals
• Skill development in economics and policy analysis

Personal Growth

Participants also gain cultural experience while living and working in different countries.

Also Read: ICIQ Summer Fellowship Program 2026 in Spain

How to Apply for the ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28

Applying for the fellowship is straightforward.

Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Overseas Development Institute.
2. Click on the Apply Now button.
3. Create an account and complete the registration process.
4. Fill out the online application form carefully.
5. Submit the application before the deadline.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in June 2026.

Selected fellows will begin their placements in October or November 2026.

Application Deadline

FAQs

Who can apply for the ODI Fellowship Scheme?

Applicants from all nationalities with a Master’s or PhD in economics, statistics, or related fields can apply.

Is the ODI Fellowship fully funded?

The fellowship is a paid program that offers salary and housing support during the two-year placement.

Do I need work experience to apply?

Relevant internships or professional experience can strengthen your application but may not always be mandatory.

When does the ODI Fellowship start?

The fellowship begins in October or November 2026.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline to apply for the ODI Fellowship Scheme 2026–28 is 31 March 2026.