If you are planning to pursue a PhD and want stable, long-term funding in Europe, the FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026 offered by Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT) is one of the most important doctoral funding opportunities to consider. Designed to strengthen advanced research with socio-economic relevance, FCT PhD Scholarship 2026 supports doctoral candidates across all scientific fields, offering flexibility, financial security, and strong institutional backing in Portugal.

What This Opportunity Really Offers You

The FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026 is built to remove financial stress so you can focus entirely on your research. You receive a monthly maintenance allowance according to national regulations, full coverage of tuition fees, and funding support for complementary training activities. The program also provides financial assistance for presenting your work at international conferences. Personal accident insurance is included, and installation or travel allowances may apply depending on your research structure. In short, this is comprehensive doctoral funding designed for serious researchers.

The general application line is open to candidates from all scientific disciplines. Your research can be carried out in Portuguese scientific or academic institutions, with the possibility of partially conducting research in non-academic entities or foreign institutions under specific conditions.

Who Can Apply for FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026?

Foundation for Science and Technology Doctoral Scholarship 2026 is open to Portuguese citizens, EU nationals, and applicants from non-EU countries, including stateless persons and political refugees. You must not hold a doctoral degree and must not have previously received an FCT-funded PhD grant. International applicants are eligible, provided they meet residency requirements if part of the research is conducted abroad. If you are academically prepared and ready to commit to a PhD in Portugal, you can apply regardless of your scientific field.

How to Apply for FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026 in Portugal? 

The entire application process of FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026 in Portugal is completed online through the official FCT portal. You must submit your application under the general application line between 2 March 2026 and 31 March 2026 (5:00 PM Lisbon time). Applications sent by email or other methods will not be accepted. Before submitting, carefully review the Research Grant Regulations and ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly. Precision and completeness are essential, as this is a nationally competitive funding program.

Key Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Scholarship Name	FCT Doctoral Research Scholarship
Funding Body	Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT)
Host Country	Portugal
Study Level	PhD
Fields of Study	All scientific fields
Application Period	2–31 March 2026
Funding Type	Fully funded (maintenance + supplements)
Eligible Nationalities	All nationalities
Results Announcement	August 2026 (provisional)

If you are serious about doctoral research in Europe and want a well-structured, nationally funded PhD opportunity, the FCT Doctoral Scholarship 2026 offers both academic freedom and financial stability. Start preparing your application now and submit it well before 31 March 2026 to maximize your chances.

Stay connected with us to explore more fully funded PhD scholarships, European research grants, and long-term academic opportunities designed for ambitious researchers worldwide.