Pursuing a PhD in Europe can be a rewarding experience, and several scholarships and funding opportunities are available to support international students. Here’s a guide to some notable PhD scholarships in Europe:
1. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)
- Overview: Funded by the European Commission, MSCA provides grants for PhD students and postdoctoral researchers.
- Eligibility: Open to researchers of any nationality. PhD candidates must be at an early stage of their career.
- Amount: Salaries are competitive and vary depending on the country and experience. Additional funding for research costs and travel may be provided.
- Application: Apply through individual institutions or research organizations participating in the MSCA program.
2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Doctorates (EMJDs)
- Overview: Offers scholarships for students enrolled in joint doctoral programs offered by multiple institutions across Europe.
- Eligibility: Open to international students applying to joint doctoral programs.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, travel, subsistence, and installation costs.
- Application: Apply through the specific Erasmus Mundus doctoral programs.
3. European Research Council (ERC) Grants
- Overview: ERC offers funding for innovative research projects across Europe, including PhD research.
- Eligibility: Applicants must be employed by an ERC-funded project or affiliated with a participating institution.
- Amount: Varies based on the grant; includes generous funding for research costs.
- Application: Typically involves applying for a research grant through ERC or affiliated institutions.
4. The Gates Cambridge Scholarships
- Overview: Although based at the University of Cambridge, the Gates Cambridge Scholarships are available to international students from various countries, including those pursuing research in Europe.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a full-time PhD at the University of Cambridge.
- Amount: Covers full tuition, living expenses, and additional funding for academic development.
- Application: Apply directly to the University of Cambridge through their application process.
5. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
- Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides various scholarships for international PhD students.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing a PhD at a German institution.
- Amount: Includes monthly stipends, travel allowances, and research costs.
- Application: Apply through DAAD or the specific German university where you will be studying.
6. Netherlands Fellowship Programmes (NFP)
- Overview: The NFP offers scholarships to professionals from developing countries to study in the Netherlands, including PhD programs.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from eligible countries pursuing a PhD.
- Amount: Covers tuition fees, travel, subsistence, and insurance.
- Application: Apply through Nuffic or the participating Dutch institutions.
7. Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships
- Overview: Offers scholarships for foreign scholars and researchers, including PhD candidates, to study in Switzerland.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing PhD studies at Swiss universities.
- Amount: Includes a monthly allowance, health insurance, and travel expenses.
- Application: Apply through the Swiss Federal Commission for Scholarships (FCS) or the Swiss embassy in your home country.
8. Scottish Graduate School of Social Science (SGSSS) Scholarships
- Overview: Provides funding for PhD students in social sciences, including international students studying in Scotland.
- Eligibility: Open to international students accepted into a PhD program in social sciences at a participating Scottish university.
- Amount: Includes tuition fees and a stipend.
- Application: Apply through the participating universities or SGSSS.
9. The Wellcome Trust Fellowships
- Overview: Provides fellowships for students and researchers in biomedical and health-related fields.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing research in these fields at participating European institutions.
- Amount: Includes generous funding for research, salaries, and additional costs.
- Application: Apply through Wellcome Trust or participating institutions.
10. The Fondation Rotaria Internationale (FRI) Scholarships
- Overview: Offers funding for international students pursuing advanced research in various fields.
- Eligibility: Open to international PhD students in eligible fields.
- Amount: Varies based on the scholarship.
- Application: Apply through FRI or affiliated institutions.
Application Tips
- Research Thoroughly: Check specific eligibility criteria and deadlines for each scholarship.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather academic transcripts, research proposals, letters of recommendation, and other required documents.
- Contact Institutions: Reach out to potential supervisors and institutions to discuss your research interests and funding options.
- Follow Deadlines: Ensure you meet all application deadlines and provide complete and accurate information.
For the most accurate and detailed information, visit the official websites of the scholarship providers or contact their offices directly.