International Scholarship Β· Portugal

FCT PhD Research Scholarships

The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) provides annual research scholarships for doctoral candidates across all scientific domains in Portugal. These scholarships support students enrolled in or eligible for PhD programs, including specific tracks for non-academic environments and virology research.

Check Official WebsiteTypically opens: VariesOfficial Portal β†’

Quick Facts

Status

Currently Closed

Funding

Full / Partial

Deadline

Varies by annual call; recent calls closed in March and April

Country

PT flagPortugal
Official Website β†’
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About the FCT PhD Research Scholarships

πŸ• 2 min read

The FCT PhD Research Scholarships are the primary funding mechanism for doctoral studies in Portugal, managed by the Foundation for Science and Technology. These scholarships are designed to support research activities leading to a PhD degree across all fields of knowledge.

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The program operates through annual calls, which are part of the FCT's core structural funding initiatives. These calls are open to candidates who are already enrolled in a doctoral program or those who meet the necessary conditions to enroll.

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The program includes a General Application Line, which covers all scientific domains, and specific lines such as the Maria de Sousa Scholarships, which focus on virology research. Additionally, there is a specific line for research conducted in non-academic environments to bridge the gap between academia and industry.

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The FCT manages these scholarships to ensure the development of high-quality research in Portugal. The funding is competitive and requires applicants to demonstrate the scientific merit of their proposed research plan and their academic background.

Eligible Levels

PhD

Eligible Fields

All scientific domainsVirology (Maria de Sousa Scholarships)
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Why Choose This Scholarship?

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Direct funding from the Portuguese national science foundation

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Covers all scientific fields of study

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Includes specialized tracks for non-academic research environments

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Provides access to a wide network of research institutions in Portugal

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Supports the development of high-level scientific careers

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What the Scholarship Covers

Monthly maintenance stipend
Tuition fee coverage
Support for research-related activities
Access to FCT research infrastructure
Participation in national scientific networks
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Eligibility Requirements

5 requirements

Must be enrolled in a PhD program or meet the requirements for enrollment
Must propose a research plan leading to a doctoral degree
Must comply with the specific regulations of the chosen application line
Must demonstrate academic and scientific merit
Must be available to conduct research as defined in the application
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Documents Checklist

5 documents required

1Academic transcripts
2Research project proposal
3Curriculum Vitae
4Proof of enrollment or eligibility for PhD program
5Letters of recommendation
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How to Apply - Step by Step

1

Monitor the FCT website for the opening of annual calls

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Select the appropriate application line (General, Non-Academic, or Specific)

3

Prepare the required research proposal and supporting documentation

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Submit the application through the official FCT online portal

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Await the evaluation results published by the FCT

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Application Timeline

1

March 2026

General Call 2026

Closed

2

March 2026

Non-Academic Line 2026

Closed

3

April 2025

General Call 2025

Closed

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Insider Tips & Pro Tips

TIP 1

Check the FCT website regularly for the 2026 competition calendar

TIP 2

Ensure your research proposal aligns with the specific requirements of the chosen line

TIP 3

Use the Ciencia Vitae platform to manage your academic profile

TIP 4

Review previous years' regulations to understand the evaluation criteria

TIP 5

Subscribe to the FCT direct mail service for updates on new calls

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Frequently Asked Questions

3 questions - click any to expand

A

Candidates who are enrolled in a PhD program or those who meet the necessary conditions to enroll in one.

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No, the general call covers all scientific domains, though specific calls like the Maria de Sousa scholarships focus on virology.

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The calls for PhD research scholarships have an annual periodicity.

Check the Official Website

This scholarship typically opens around Varies. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.

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Closed

Reopens: Varies

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