University of Padua PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027 in Italy | Fully Funded PhD Opportunity

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The University of Padua has opened applications for the PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027 under the 42nd PhD cycle. The program is designed for international students and researchers whose education or academic careers have been affected by war, persecution, political instability, human rights violations, or humanitarian crises.

The scholarships are funded by the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Padova e Rovigo and support candidates who need a safe academic environment to continue their doctoral studies in Italy. Selected applicants will join fully funded PhD programs at one of Europe’s oldest universities.

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Overview of University of Padua PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027

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What is the University of Padua PhD at Risk Program?

The PhD at Risk initiative supports scholars who cannot safely continue their studies or research activities in their home countries. The scholarship is part of the university’s wider international protection and academic freedom program. The scholarships are reserved for candidates facing situations linked to conflict, persecution, violations of human rights, or political instability.

The University of Padua has also increased doctoral funding for the 42nd cycle and confirmed additional financial support for international researchers and students.

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Scholarship Benefits

Selected candidates will receive full financial support during their PhD studies in Italy. Benefits include:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Annual scholarship funding of approximately €17,443 to €18,643 gross
• Research funding support
• Access to university laboratories and research facilities
• Academic supervision and integration support
• Support services for relocation and settlement in Italy
• Opportunity to study in English at an internationally ranked university

The scholarship duration is three years, which matches the standard PhD period at the University of Padua.

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Available PhD Fields

Applicants can apply for different doctoral programs offered by the university. Available areas may include:

• Engineering
• Physics
• Psychology
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• Environmental Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Economics
• Law
• Technology and Innovation

Some PhD programs may have additional research requirements or project proposals.

Eligibility Criteria of the PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027

To apply for the University of Padua PhD at Risk Scholarships 2026/2027, applicants generally must:

• Be international applicants
• Be in a situation of risk or vulnerability due to conflict, persecution, political instability, or human rights violations
• Hold qualifications required for PhD admission
• Meet the academic requirements of the selected doctoral program
• Provide evidence supporting their risk status
• Demonstrate strong academic and research potential

The scholarship particularly supports refugees, displaced researchers, asylum seekers, and scholars facing restrictions on academic freedom.

Required Documents

Applicants may need to prepare the following documents:

• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Passport or identification document
• Research proposal
• Motivation letter
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of English proficiency if required
• Documents showing refugee status or evidence of a risk situation

Different PhD departments may request additional documents.

Application Process

Applicants must complete the online application through the official University of Padua portal.

Steps to Apply

1. Visit the official PhD admissions page
2. Choose an eligible doctoral program
3. Review admission requirements carefully
4. Prepare all required documents
5. Complete the online application form
6. Upload supporting documents
7. Submit the application before the deadline

The official notice states that applications must be submitted online before June 5, 2026, at 1:00 PM (CEST).

Why Study at the University of Padua?

Founded in 1222, the University of Padua is one of the oldest universities in Europe and is known for research, innovation, and international education. The university hosts hundreds of funded doctoral positions each year and continues to expand support for international scholars.

The university also participates in international refugee and academic protection programs, including initiatives connected to UNHCR and Scholars at Risk networks.