FCT Doctoral Research Scholarships (Portugal)
Research grants funded by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia for candidates pursuing a doctoral degree in all scientific domains in Portugal. Includes both general application lines and specific tracks such as non-academic environments and Maria de Sousa virology grants.
Quick Facts
Status
Currently ClosedFunding
Fully FundedDeadline
March 2026 (General Line and Non-Academic Line closed in March 2026)
Country
PortugalAbout the FCT Doctoral Research Scholarships
The Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) provides doctoral research scholarships aimed at candidates enrolled in study cycles leading to a doctoral degree or those who satisfy the necessary enrollment conditions. These grants support research activities conducted across all fields of knowledge.
The funding structure includes structural annual competitions covering all scientific domains, alongside targeted initiatives. Notable specialized tracks include the Maria de Sousa Doctoral Scholarships focused on virology and specific application lines dedicated to research carried out in close collaboration with non-academic entities.
Candidates apply through official FCT electronic platforms by submitting required documentation detailing their academic background and proposed research plans. The evaluation process assesses scientific merit and the feasibility of the work program.
The scholarships form part of Portugal's national strategy to foster advanced scientific training and expand research capacity across academic and industrial sectors. Successful applicants receive financial support for the duration of their doctoral studies.
Eligible Levels
Eligible Fields
Why Choose This Scholarship?
Financed by the primary public agency for science and technology in Portugal
Covers all scientific domains without restriction to specific academic disciplines
Offers specialized tracks for non-academic partnerships and targeted fields like virology
Provides structured financial support for the entire duration of doctoral research
What the Scholarship Covers
Studying in Portugal
Portugal offers a growing hub for international researchers supported by European structural funds and national science initiatives.
Eligibility Requirements
3 requirements
Documents Checklist
4 documents required
How to Apply - Step by Step
Review open calls and regulations on the official FCT portal
Prepare the required application documents including the research plan and academic records
Submit the application electronically through the designated FCT submission platform before the deadline
Await evaluation results published by FCT according to the competition calendar
Application Timeline
Varies by year
Call Opening
Announced on the FCT portal under the competition calendar
March 2026
Application Deadline
Deadline for General Line and Non Academic Environment Line
Following close of competition
Evaluation and Results
Results published on the official FCT website
Insider Tips & Pro Tips
Check the FCT competition calendar annually to track opening dates for general and specific lines
Align your research proposal with the specific requirements of either the general line or the non academic partnership line
Ensure your host institution and supervisor meet FCT accreditation standards before applying
Keep your Ciência Vitae profile updated as it links directly to your application documentation
Review past evaluation guidelines to understand the weighting of academic merit versus the work plan
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions - click any to expand
Yes, FCT doctoral scholarships are open to candidates meeting the enrollment requirements for a doctoral degree in Portugal, regardless of nationality.
The general application line covers all scientific domains. There are also specific thematic lines such as virology under the Maria de Sousa scholarships and non academic environment research.
Applications must be submitted electronically through the designated FCT application platform during open competition windows.
Check the Official Website
This scholarship typically opens around Varies - confirm on official site. Confirm the current cycle and deadline on the official portal.
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