Google PhD Fellowship Program
The Google PhD Fellowship Program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students pursuing exceptional research in computer science and related fields. The program provides funding and access to Google researchers for promising PhD candidates worldwide.
Quick Facts
Status
Opening SoonFunding
Fully FundedDeadline
April 30, 2026
Country
About the Google PhD Fellowship Program
The Google PhD Fellowship Program is designed to nurture strong relations with the academic community by recognizing graduate students who demonstrate innovative research in areas relevant to computer science. The program supports promising PhD candidates from diverse backgrounds who aim to influence the future of technology.
Fellowships are available to students across several global regions, including Africa, Australia, Canada, East Asia, Europe, India, Latin America, the Middle East, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and the United States. The program is highly selective and requires students to be nominated by their home university.
The research areas covered by the fellowship are broad, encompassing fields such as machine learning, human-computer interaction, quantum computing, privacy and security, and systems and networking. Google researchers evaluate applications based on the strength of the research proposal, impact, academic achievements, and leadership potential.
The program does not make recipients employees of Google, nor does it restrict intellectual property unless the student completes an internship at the company. Awards are paid directly to the fellow's university for distribution, and no overhead costs are permitted to be assessed against the funding.
Applications must be submitted by an official representative of the university during the designated application window. Students cannot apply directly to the program, and they must remain enrolled full-time in their PhD program for the duration of the fellowship to maintain eligibility.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Direct financial support for research-related activities and living expenses.
Recognition by Google researchers as a promising young academic.
Flexibility to pursue research in a wide range of computer science sub-fields.
No intellectual property restrictions unless an internship at Google is undertaken.
Opportunity to engage with a global network of researchers.
What the Scholarship Covers
Eligibility Requirements
6 requirements
Documents Checklist
7 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Review eligibility and application requirements for your specific region on the official website.
Contact your department or graduate school to inquire about the internal university nomination process.
Prepare all required application materials in a single, flat PDF file.
Ensure your university submits the application on your behalf through the official portal during the application window.
Application Timeline
March 5, 2026
Applications Open
April 30, 2026
Applications Close
August 31, 2026
Notification of Proposal Decisions
October 31, 2026
Public Announcement of Recipients
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the specific research areas listed in the application form, as they may vary by region.
Ensure your research proposal is comprehensive and clearly outlines the direction and potential impact of your work.
Coordinate with your department early, as universities have limits on the number of students they can nominate.
Ensure your essay responses, if required, clearly articulate your leadership experience and research goals.
Verify that your university is an accredited research institution that awards PhD degrees in computer science or adjacent fields.
Important Links & Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
No, students must be nominated by their university. You should contact your department or graduate school to learn about the internal nomination process.
No, recipients do not become employees of Google. The award does not affect future employment opportunities or the hiring process.
Students supported by a comparable industry award are not eligible. However, government or non-profit organization funding is exempt.
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