University of Padua PhD at Risk Scholarships 2027
The University of Padua has officially opened applications for the PhD at Risk Scholarships – XLII Cycle (2026/2027), offering fully funded doctoral opportunities for students whose academic journeys have been disrupted by war, persecution, humanitarian crises, or political instability.
Supported by the Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo Foundation, the initiative aims to provide vulnerable researchers with a safe and structured pathway to continue their higher education in Italy.
The scholarship includes annual funding of up to €18,643 along with relocation assistance and integration support, making it one of the most comprehensive opportunities currently available for at-risk international scholars.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Italy
- Host University: University of Padua
- Scholarship Name: PhD at Risk Scholarships – XLII Cycle (2026/2027)
- Degree Level: PhD
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Scholarship Duration: 3 Years
- Eligible Nationalities: International students
- Funding Coverage: Up to €18,643 annual stipend plus relocation and integration support
- Application Deadline: June 5, 2026
- Target Group: Students and researchers affected by conflict, persecution, displacement, or humanitarian crises
Degree Level
The program supports doctoral (PhD) studies for the 2026/2027 academic cycle at the University of Padua.
Available Subjects
The scholarships are available across multiple academic disciplines offered under the university’s doctoral programs. Applicants must select an eligible PhD program from the official list provided by the university.
Fields may include:
- Science and Technology
- Engineering
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Health Sciences
- Environmental Studies
- Economics and Law
Benefits
Selected candidates will receive:
- Annual gross stipend between €17,443 and €18,643
- Full tuition support for the 3-year PhD program
- Relocation assistance to Italy
- Reception and settlement services
- Academic integration support
- Social and legal guidance during the program
One of the key advantages of this scholarship is its strong focus on supporting scholars beyond tuition funding, helping them adapt academically and socially in a new environment.
Eligible Nationalities
The scholarship is open to international applicants from all countries, particularly individuals affected by:
- Armed conflict
- Political instability
- Humanitarian crises
- Academic repression
- Social or religious persecution
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the PhD at Risk Scholarships 2027, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be an international applicant facing conflict, persecution, or severe academic disruption
- Refugees and asylum seekers are eligible
- Applicants experiencing restrictions on academic freedom or civil rights may apply
- Must satisfy admission requirements for the chosen PhD program
- Must provide documentation supporting both academic qualifications and risk status
- Candidates should demonstrate strong academic potential and research readiness
Application Procedure
Applicants must follow these steps:
- Review the eligible PhD programs listed by the University of Padua.
- Select a suitable doctoral program aligned with academic background and research interests.
- Complete the online application through the university portal.
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Upload required documents, including:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Research proposal (if required)
- Identification documents
- Proof of refugee status, persecution, or humanitarian risk
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Applicants are advised to clearly explain both their academic qualifications and personal risk circumstances, as both factors are important during evaluation.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027 at the University of Padua is:
June 5, 2026 (1:00 PM Italian time)
