Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellowship Scheme 2025/2027 for young professionals (£32,600 per annum ), Check out and Apply.

The Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellowship Scheme offers early-career economists and statisticians the opportunity to work as public sector civil servants on two-year contracts in low- and middle-income countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, the Pacific, and the Western Balkans. Fellows are typically employed in various government institutions, including ministries of finance and planning, health, education, central banks, statistics offices, and regulatory bodies. 

Eligibility Criteria:

Open to candidates of all nationalities with a master's degree or PhD in economics, statistics, or related fields.

Specialized postgraduate qualifications in areas such as agricultural economics, environmental economics, international economics, health economics, development economics, and econometrics are also suitable.

Candidates currently pursuing a postgraduate degree must complete it successfully before starting the fellowship.

Applications are strengthened by a demonstrable interest in public policy, relevant work or voluntary experience, language proficiency (with English essential and French particularly advantageous), and strong IT skills. 

Benefits:

Total compensation net of tax is approximately £32,600 per annum in the first year and £34,600 in the second year.

This compensation includes a housing allowance that varies according to the cost of living in the host country. 

Application Process:

The application deadline for the 2025/2027 ODI Fellowship Scheme is April 30, 2025.

Interested candidates should submit their applications by this date for consideration. Late submissions will not be accepted. 

For more detailed information and to apply, please visit the Official ODI Fellowship Scheme Application Portal .

Impact of the ODI Fellowship Scheme

The Overseas Development Institute (ODI) Fellowship Scheme has been highly impactful in strengthening public sector capacity in low- and middle-income countries. It benefits both the host institutions and the fellows in several key ways:

1. Strengthening Government Institutions

ODI Fellows work in key ministries (finance, planning, health, education, etc.), central banks, and statistical offices, providing technical expertise in economic and statistical analysis.

They help shape evidence-based policies, improving the quality of public service delivery and economic governance in developing countries.

2. Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer

The presence of ODI Fellows helps train local staff, improving institutional knowledge in areas like budget planning, macroeconomic analysis, trade policy, and social development programs.

Over time, this reduces dependency on external consultants and enhances local ownership of development strategies.

3. Career Acceleration for Fellows

The fellowship provides hands-on experience in public policy, development planning, and governance, making it an excellent pathway for careers in international development, NGOs, and multilateral organizations like the World Bank, IMF, and UN.

Many former ODI Fellows have advanced to leadership roles in global development, academia, and public administration.

4. Long-Term Development Impact

Many policy reforms initiated or supported by ODI Fellows have led to sustainable economic growth, poverty reduction, and enhanced governance structures in partner countries.

The scheme fosters stronger international partnerships and networks for economic and policy collaboration.

How to Succeed in Getting the ODI Fellowship

ODI Fellowships are highly competitive, so strategic preparation is crucial. Here’s how you can maximize your chances:

1. Meet the Eligibility Requirements

Education: A master’s degree or PhD in economics, statistics, or a related discipline (development economics, econometrics, public policy, agricultural economics, etc.).

Work Experience: Relevant experience in policy research, data analysis, or economic/statistical modeling is highly valued.

2. Demonstrate a Strong Interest in Public Policy & Development

Show evidence of research, internships, or professional experience in economic policy, governance, or international development.

Highlight work related to budgeting, macroeconomic policy, trade policy, or development finance.

3. Gain Relevant Experience

Work experience in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations (UN, World Bank, IMF, DFID, etc.), or research institutions will give you an advantage.

Internships in economic policy, data analysis, or public financial management can strengthen your application.

4. Develop Language and IT Skills

English proficiency is essential, but French, Portuguese, or Spanish is a huge advantage, as many placements are in Francophone and Lusophone countries.

Proficiency in data analysis tools (Stata, R, Python, or Excel) is highly recommended.

5. Write a Strong Application

Clearly articulate your motivation for joining the fellowship. Explain how your skills align with ODI’s mission.

Demonstrate an understanding of policy challenges in developing countries.

Provide strong references from academic or professional supervisors who can highlight your analytical and problem-solving abilities.

6. Prepare for the Interview

Be ready to discuss your technical skills, policy experience, and ability to work in challenging environments.

ODI seeks candidates with resilience, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills, so highlight your experience in cross-cultural teamwork.

By focusing on these key areas, you can significantly improve your chances of securing a place in the ODI Fellowship Scheme and making a meaningful impact in international development.