HORIZON MSCA COFUND: Research Fellowship, European Commission

Europe, Postdoctoral Fellowship / / By / 7 minutes of reading
Fully funded HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND fellowship for researchers in Europe covering stipend, travel, and research costs

Unlock International Research Opportunities

For ambitious researchers and recent graduates looking to build a distinguished academic or professional career, the HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND fellowship offers a transformative opportunity. Funded by the European Union under the prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, this fellowship is designed to support international, interdisciplinary, and inter-sectoral mobility in research.

Now open for the 2025–2026 academic cycle, this initiative is particularly valuable for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers seeking fully funded support to advance their work in top-tier European institutions. Whether you’re just beginning your academic journey or striving to elevate your research credentials, this fellowship program serves as a gateway to impactful global collaboration.

This detailed article provides everything prospective applicants need to know: from understanding eligibility requirements to navigating the application process, gathering the right documents, and meeting key deadlines. Let this be your trusted resource for applying to one of Europe’s most competitive research programs.

About the HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND Fellowship

Program Name

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND 2025

Current Status

The program is officially active. Applications are accepted from 23 January 2025 through 24 June 2025.

Overview & Objectives

The COFUND scheme under the MSCA framework is structured to

co-finance existing or newly launched doctoral and postdoctoral fellowship programs. These programs are hosted by entities based in EU Member States or Horizon Europe Associated Countries. The main aims of MSCA COFUND are to:

    • Promote global researcher mobility
    • Enhance interdisciplinary research training
    • Strengthen collaboration across sectors including academia, industry, and policy
    • Expand researchers’ career prospects within and beyond the academic sphere

By supporting new training and career development frameworks, COFUND fosters the next generation of world-class researchers.

Duration

Fellowship durations typically span three to five years, depending on the design of the host organization’s research and training program.

Study/Work Mode

    • Full-time or part-time options available
    • Participation is usually onsite within Europe, but hybrid models are permitted based on the institution’s structure

Core Focus Areas

MSCA COFUND supports research across all scientific domains, such as:

    • Life Sciences
    • Physical Sciences and Engineering
    • Social Sciences and Humanities
    • ICT and Digital Innovation
    • Sustainability and Climate Research

This program actively encourages interdisciplinary proposals that span multiple academic fields.

Eligibility Criteria for HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND

justify;">Academic Qualifications

    • Doctoral applicants must have a Master’s degree or its recognized equivalent.
    • Postdoctoral applicants are required to hold a PhD or demonstrate an equivalent level of professional research experience.

Professional/Research Experience

    • Requirements differ by institution.
    • Doctoral candidates typically should have up to 5 years of research experience.
    • Postdoctoral applicants must usually have no more than 8 years of full-time research since earning their PhD.

Age Limit

There is no upper age limit, but the applicant’s career stage must correspond to the program’s research level.

Nationality Restrictions

    • Open to applicants from all nationalities.
    • However, host institutions must be located in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country.

Language Requirements

    • Strong English language skills are essential.
    • Institutions may request proof via standard tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. Please confirm with the specific host institution.

Other Requirements

    • Willingness to commit to a full-time research position for the duration of the program.
    • Readiness to relocate as per the hosting institution’s terms.
style="text-align: justify;">Application Process for HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND

Where and How to Apply

All applications must be submitted online through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

    1. Register an EU Login Account
    2. Navigate to the Calls section and filter for MSCA → COFUND 2025
    3. Choose an eligible host organization aligned with your research field
    4. Fill out the online application form with complete and accurate details
    5. Upload all necessary documentation (see next section)
    6. Submit your application no later than 24 June 2025

Application Tips

    • Check the official site of your preferred host institution for additional instructions.
    • Use filters within the portal to sort programs by academic discipline and researcher level.

Required Documents for HORIZON-MSCA-COFUND

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

    • CV (Curriculum Vitae) – Use the EUROPASS format for standardized review.
    • Statement of Purpose / Research Proposal – Clearly outline your academic objectives and how they align with your chosen host’s program.
    • Letters of Recommendation – Typically two or three, from mentors or professional supervisors.
    • Academic Transcripts – Must include official translations if not originally in English.
    • Language Proficiency Proof – TOEFL, IELTS, or a comparable test, depending on institutional requirements.
    • Passport Copy / Valid Government ID – For identity verification.
    • Additional Materials – Some
      programs may request motivation letters, signed consent forms, or proof of funding needs.

Fields of Study / Research Areas Supported

MSCA COFUND welcomes applications in a wide array of academic and research domains. These include:

    • Biological and Life Sciences
    • Engineering and Applied Sciences
    • Health and Medical Research
    • Economics, Governance, and Public Policy
    • Environmental and Climate Science
    • Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Data Science
    • Renewable Energy and Sustainable Technology

Programs that incorporate multiple disciplines or bridge academia with industry are strongly encouraged.

Financial Benefits

Tuition Support

    • Most host institutions offer full tuition coverage, though partial funding models may apply in some programs.

Monthly Stipend

    • Researchers receive a monthly allowance typically ranging between EUR 3,300 and EUR 4,700, depending on the country and institution.

Travel Assistance

    • Reimbursement for relocation-related travel costs is generally provided.

Research Funding

    • Includes support for consumables, conference attendance, and publication fees.

Relocation Support

    • Fellowship may cover visa costs, temporary housing upon arrival, and other relocation logistics.

Additional Benefits

    • Access to comprehensive health insurance
    • Parental leave options, subject to host country rules
    • Participation in skill-building workshops and networking events

Selection Process

Evaluation Stages

    1. Initial Screening – Verifying completeness and eligibility
    2. Expert Peer Review – Evaluation of research proposal and applicant merit
    3. Interviews – Conducted by hosting institutions (if applicable)
    4. Final Ranking – Based on combined scores and recommendations

Assessment Criteria

    • Relevance and innovation of proposed research
    • Applicant’s academic record and career development
    • Alignment with institutional goals
    • Broader societal and scientific impact

Timeline

    • Application Deadline: 24 June 2025
    • Results Announcement: November 2025 (tentative)
    • Grant Agreement Signing: February 2026 (tentative)
    • Program Commencement: April 2026 (tentative)

Important Application Deadlines

StageDate
Call Opens23 January 2025
Final Application Submission24 June 2025
Results NotificationNovember 2025 (Tentative)
Grant Agreement SigningFebruary 2026 (Tentative)
Fellowship Start DateApril 2026 (Tentative)

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

    • SOP Crafting: Use concise language to describe your objectives, and make sure your goals align with the host’s mission.
    • Standout CV: Highlight research contributions, published work, and unique skills.
    • Effective References: Choose referees who are familiar with your academic potential and can provide strong endorsements.
    • Professional Document Design: Tools like Canva and Overleaf can elevate your application’s visual presentation.

Contact Information

    • Coordinator Contact: Refer to the website of your selected host institution
    • General Queries: [email protected]
    • Support Phone: +32 2 299 11 11

Conclusion

The MSCA COFUND 2025 program stands as a premier pathway for researchers who aspire to gain international recognition and professional growth. Its robust support structure, global network, and multidisciplinary focus offer unparalleled opportunities for academic excellence and innovation.

If you meet the eligibility requirements and have a compelling research vision, this is your chance to advance your career on an international stage.

Apply now via the official EU portal and become part of a thriving community of globally engaged researchers.

Quick Summary Table

FeatureDetails
Program NameMarie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) COFUND 2025
Host Country / RegionEU Member States & Horizon Europe Associated Countries
Funded ByEuropean Commission
Duration3–5 Years (Depending on Project)
Study ModeFull-time / Hybrid / Onsite
EligibilityPhD Candidates / Postdoctoral Researchers
Financial SupportTuition, Stipend, Travel, Relocation, Insurance
Fields of StudyAll Disciplines
Application Deadline24 June 2025
Official WebsiteMSCA COFUND 2025 Portal

Citations

  1. European Commission – MSCA COFUND 2025
  2. European Commission – Call Details

FAQs for the MSCA COFUND

What is the MSCA COFUND fellowship program?

The MSCA COFUND is a European-funded fellowship that supports research training and career development through international and interdisciplinary mobility.

Who can apply for the MSCA COFUND 2025 fellowship?

Researchers with a Master’s or PhD degree, from any country, can apply based on the host institution’s program requirements.

Is the MSCA COFUND fellowship fully funded?

Yes, it typically covers tuition, a monthly stipend, travel costs, and research-related expenses through co-financing.

How do I apply for the MSCA COFUND 2025 program?

Apply through the EU Funding & Tenders Portal by creating an account, selecting a host program, and submitting all required documents.

What documents are required for the MSCA COFUND application?

You need a CV, research proposal, academic transcripts, recommendation letters, language test scores, and valid ID.

What is the deadline for the MSCA COFUND 2025 application?

The final submission deadline for applications is 24 June 2025, as per the official EU call announcement.

How much stipend does the MSCA COFUND provide?

Fellows typically receive a monthly stipend ranging from EUR 3,300 to EUR 4,700, depending on the location.

Can international applicants apply for MSCA COFUND fellowships?

Yes, international researchers from any country are eligible if they meet the host institution’s criteria.

What are the research fields supported by MSCA COFUND?

The program supports all disciplines including STEM, humanities, social sciences, and environmental studies.

How competitive is the MSCA COFUND selection process?

It is highly competitive, with peer-reviewed evaluations based on research quality, applicant merit, and program alignment.

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