Portugal’s Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT) has opened applications for the 2025 PhD Studentships – Regular Line of Application, offering a fully funded opportunity for doctoral candidates worldwide. This prestigious program supports high-quality research across all scientific disciplines, fostering innovation and academic excellence.
With Portugal emerging as a leading research hub in Europe, the FCT PhD Studentships provide financial stability, access to top-tier institutions, and a platform for international collaboration. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a professional researcher, this program is an excellent pathway to advance your academic career.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- Eligibility criteria
- Application process & deadlines
- Financial benefits
- Key tips for a strong application
About the 2025 FCT PhD Studentships
Program Overview
- Program Name: 2025 Call for PhD Studentships – Regular Line of Application
- Host Institution: Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (FCT)
- Application Status: Open (March 17 – April 16, 2025)
- Funding: Fully funded (monthly stipend, tuition, research costs)
- Duration: Up to 4 years (48 months)
- Study Mode: Full-time
Focus Areas
The program supports research in all scientific fields, including:
- Natural Sciences(Physics, Chemistry, Biology)
- Engineering & Technology(AI, Robotics, Renewable Energy)
- Medical & Health Sciences(Biomedicine, Public Health)
- Agricultural Sciences(Sustainable Farming, Food Security)
- Social Sciences(Economics, Psychology, Political Science)
- Humanities(History, Linguistics, Philosophy)
Interdisciplinary projects are strongly encouraged, particularly those with societal impact.
Eligibility Criteria
Who Can Apply?
The FCT PhD Studentships are open to:
- Portuguese citizens
- EU/EEA nationals
- Non-EU international students
- Stateless individuals & political refugees
Academic Requirements
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree in a relevant field.
- Must be enrolled (or eligible to enroll) in a PhD program.
- No prior FCT-funded PhD studentship.
- No existing doctoral degree.
Language Proficiency
While not explicitly stated, English or Portuguese proficiency is essential (depending on the program’s language of instruction).
Financial Benefits
Successful applicants receive comprehensive funding, including:
- 💰 Monthly Stipend: €1,199.64 (tax-free, adjusted annually)
- 📚 Tuition Fees: Fully or partially covered
- ✈️ Research & Travel Grants: Conferences, fieldwork, publications
- 🏠 Relocation Support: For international candidates
- 🛡️ Insurance: Personal accident coverage
Funding is provided by the Portuguese State Budget and the European Social Fund (ESF).
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Access the Portal
- Visit myFCT and register/login.
- Complete the Application
- Select “Regular Line of Application.”
- Fill in personal, academic, and research details.
- Upload Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (highlight research experience)
- Statement of Purpose (research goals, methodology)
- Two Recommendation Letters (academic/professional)
- Academic Transcripts & Degree Certificates
- Language Proficiency Proof (if applicable)
- Passport Copy
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Deadline: April 16, 2025, 5:00 PM (Lisbon Time)
Selection Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic Merit (30%)– Grades, publications, experience
- Research Plan (40%)– Innovation, feasibility, impact
- Hosting Conditions (30%)– University support, resources
Only candidates scoring ≥3.0/5.0 proceed to funding consideration.
Key Deadlines
Stage | Date |
Applications Open | March 17, 2025 |
Submission Deadline | April 16, 2025 |
Evaluation Period | April–July 2025 |
Results Announcement | August 2025 |
Program Start | 2025–2026 Academic Year |
Tips for a Strong Application
- Craft a Compelling Statement of Purpose – Clearly define your research objectives and societal relevance.
- Strengthen Your CV – Highlight publications, conferences, and prior research✔ Secure Strong Recommendation Letters – Choose referees familiar with your academic potential.
- Ensure a Well-Structured Work Plan – Demonstrate feasibility, innovation, and methodology.
Contact Information
For inquiries, contact:
- Email: bolsas@fct.pt
- Phone: +351 21 391 15 00
- Website: FCT Official Page
Summary
The 2025 FCT PhD Studentships offer an unparalleled opportunity to pursue fully funded doctoral research in Portugal, with access to world-class institutions and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Don’t miss the April 16, 2025 deadline! Start preparing your application today.
🔗 Apply here: https://myfct.fct.pt
Quick Summary Table
Feature | Details |
Program | 2025 FCT PhD Studentships |
Funding | Full stipend, tuition, research grants |
Eligibility | Open to all nationalities |
Deadline | April 16, 2025 |
Fields | All scientific disciplines |
Duration | Up to 4 years |
Official Link |
Citations
- FCT Official Announcement
- European Social Fund (ESF)
FAQs
Applicants must be enrolled or meet the requirements to enroll in a PhD program
Applications close on April 16, 2025, at 5:00 PM (Lisbon time).
Applications must be submitted online via the myFCT portal at https://myfct.fct.pt.
Required documents include academic transcripts, CV, and a research plan.
The studentship covers a monthly stipend, tuition fees, and other complementary support.
Yes, the studentships are open to all nationalities, including EU and non-EU citizens.
Applications are evaluated based on the merit of the applicant, work plan, and hosting conditions.
Provisional results are expected to be published up to 90 working days after the application deadline.
Yes, there is a specific line of application for research in non-academic environments.
The studentship can last up to 4 years (48 months).
