Deadline: 15-Aug-2026
The Ageing Research Fellowship (ARF) provides research grants to Master’s and M.Phil. students enrolled at universities in Nepal who are conducting thesis research on issues affecting people aged 60 and above. Organized by Ageing Nepal and Ageing Nepal Switzerland, the fellowship supports academic research on ageing, geriatric studies, and older persons’ wellbeing through financial assistance of Rs. 40,000 per selected researcher.
What Is the Ageing Research Fellowship?
The Ageing Research Fellowship (ARF) is a research support programme designed to encourage academic studies focused on ageing and older populations in Nepal.
The fellowship is a collaborative initiative of:
- Ageing Nepal
- Ageing Nepal Switzerland
The programme aims to build research capacity among young scholars and strengthen understanding of the challenges, needs, and opportunities related to Nepal’s ageing population.
Purpose of the Fellowship
The Ageing Research Fellowship supports students conducting thesis research related to older persons in Nepal.
The programme aims to:
- Promote research on ageing issues
- Develop expertise in geriatric and ageing studies
- Encourage evidence-based understanding of older populations
- Support academic research contributing to social policy and development
The fellowship helps create a stronger academic foundation for addressing challenges faced by people aged 60 and above.
Research Areas Supported Under the Fellowship
The fellowship supports thesis research from any academic discipline, provided the research focuses on ageing-related issues in Nepal.
Possible research themes may include:
- Health and wellbeing of older persons
- Geriatric care
- Social protection
- Elderly rights and inclusion
- Mental health and ageing
- Economic conditions of older people
- Family and community support systems
- Age-friendly policies and services
The research topic must directly relate to the ageing population of Nepal.
Who Is Eligible for the Ageing Research Fellowship?
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements.
Eligible candidates must:
- Be a full-time student enrolled in a Master’s or M.Phil. programme
- Be studying at a recognized university in Nepal
- Conduct thesis research related to ageing issues
- Focus on the population aged 60 years and above in Nepal
Eligible Academic Levels
The fellowship is available for students pursuing:
- Master’s degree programmes
- M.Phil. programmes
Students from any academic discipline may apply if their thesis topic focuses on ageing-related issues.
Research Completion Requirements
Selected fellows must:
- Complete their thesis research successfully
- Write the thesis in English
- Complete the research by April 15, 2027
After completion, fellows must submit:
- Two hard copies of the final thesis
- One soft copy of the final thesis
to Ageing Nepal.
Fellowship Grant Amount and Benefits
The Ageing Research Fellowship provides financial support to selected researchers.
Each selected researcher will receive:
Rs. 40,000 (subject to applicable taxes)
A total of:
Three researchers will be selected
Payment Structure
The grant is released in two installments:
First Installment – 40%
The first payment is provided:
- At the beginning of fieldwork activities
Second Installment – 60%
The remaining amount is released after:
- Successful completion of research
- Approval of the thesis by the academic institution
Why the Ageing Research Fellowship Matters
Nepal’s ageing population is increasing, creating new social, healthcare, and economic challenges.
Research supported through this fellowship helps:
- Improve understanding of older persons’ needs
- Develop evidence-based solutions
- Strengthen ageing-related policies
- Encourage young researchers to study gerontology
- Support better services for elderly communities
Academic research plays an important role in creating inclusive societies where older people can live with dignity and security.
How to Apply for the Ageing Research Fellowship
Interested students must complete the official application process.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Applicants should verify that they:
- Are enrolled in a Master’s or M.Phil. programme
- Study at a university in Nepal
- Have an ageing-related thesis topic
Step 2: Prepare Application Materials
Applicants must complete:
- Official application form
- Required academic and research details
- Thesis proposal information
Applications must follow the prescribed format.
Step 3: Submit Application
Completed applications must be submitted by email.
Email: ageingnep@gmail.com
Application deadline:
August 15, 2026, by 5:00 pm
Late applications will not be processed.
Step 4: Complete Research and Submit Thesis
Selected fellows must:
- Conduct approved research
- Complete the thesis by April 15, 2027
- Submit final thesis copies to Ageing Nepal after approval
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants can improve their chances by:
- Selecting a clear ageing-related research topic
- Explaining the importance of their study
- Showing how research findings may benefit older populations
- Preparing a realistic research plan
- Ensuring the thesis can be completed within the required timeline
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Applicants should avoid:
- Submitting applications after the deadline
- Choosing topics unrelated to ageing
- Providing incomplete application information
- Failing to follow the required format
- Missing thesis submission requirements
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Ageing Research Fellowship?
The Ageing Research Fellowship is a research grant programme supporting Master’s and M.Phil. students in Nepal conducting thesis research on ageing-related issues.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
Full-time Master’s and M.Phil. students enrolled at universities in Nepal can apply if their research focuses on older persons aged 60 and above.
How much funding does each researcher receive?
Each selected researcher receives Rs. 40,000, subject to applicable taxes.
How many researchers will be selected?
Three researchers will receive fellowship support.
What research topics are eligible?
Any research topic is eligible if it directly addresses issues affecting Nepal’s ageing population.
When must the thesis be completed?
The thesis must be completed by April 15, 2027.
How should applications be submitted?
Applicants must submit the completed application form by email to ageingnep@gmail.com before August 15, 2026, at 5:00 pm.
Conclusion
The Ageing Research Fellowship 2026 provides valuable support for Nepalese university students researching issues related to older persons and ageing.
By funding thesis research and developing young researchers’ expertise, the programme contributes to stronger knowledge, improved policies, and better solutions for Nepal’s growing ageing population.
For more information, visit Ageing Nepal.