International doctoral candidates are invited to apply for the 2026 Call for PhD Studentships by the Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), offering fully funded PhD opportunities in Europe. The initiative aims to enhance research training across diverse scientific fields and institutions, with selections made based on structured and merit-based criteria.
Application Deadline:
- 31 March 2026 at 5:00 p.m. (Lisbon time)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) in Portugal is opening its annual call for PhD studentships under the regular line of application. These studentships aim to fund research activities leading to the award of a PhD degree, supporting advanced training with social relevance and impact.
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Which Fields are Eligible?
- All scientific areas are eligible.
- Research can be carried out in national or international academic institutions, including:
- Public and private higher education institutions
- R&D units
- Associated Laboratories
- Other private non-profit institutions dedicated to R&D
Type:
- PhD Studentship | Research Fellowship | Fully Funded.
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be enrolled or eligible to enroll in a PhD program.
- Not have previously benefited from any PhD studentship funded directly by FCT.
- Not hold a doctoral degree.
- Reside in Portugal on a permanent and habitual basis if applying for a studentship carried out both in Portugal and abroad or entirely abroad.
- Eligible applicants include Portuguese citizens, EU citizens, third-country nationals, stateless persons, and political refugees.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applications are evaluated by expert panels based on three criteria:
- Criterion A – Merit of the Applicant (30%)
- Criterion B – Merit of the Work Plan (40%)
- Criterion C – Merit of the Hosting Conditions (30%)
Applications are ranked by weighted average scores. Tie-breakers prioritize:
- Merit of the Work Plan
- Merit of the Applicant
- Merit of the Hosting Conditions
Applications scoring below 3.000 (out of 5.000) are not eligible.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Portugal and international applicants (must meet residency requirements if applying for abroad placements).
Where will the Award be Taken?
- At academic institutions in Portugal or abroad, depending on the research plan.
How Many Awards?
- Not specified (multiple studentships available under the regular line of application).
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Monthly allowance.
- Tuition fees.
- Support for training activities.
- Funding for presenting work at scientific meetings.
- Personal accident insurance.
- Travel and relocation costs (when applicable).
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration depends on the PhD program and research plan (typically 3–4 years).
How to Apply:
- Access the FCT application portal: https://myfct.fct.pt.
- Select the regular line of application and click “start application.”
- Submit the online application form and required supporting documents (as per RBI and Notice of Call).
- Ensure submission before 31 March 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Lisbon time.
