University of Palermo Fully Funded

The University of Palermo is now accepting applications for its fully funded PhD scholarships for the academic year 2025-2026. This prestigious opportunity is open to exceptional students from all nationalities and is designed to support advanced research, innovation, and academic excellence. Funded by the University of Palermo, the Sicilian Region, and other external organizations, the program offers comprehensive financial coverage and a vibrant, international research environment in Italy.

Quick Overview

• Host Institution: University of Palermo, Italy
• Scholarship Type: Fully funded PhD scholarships
• Number of Scholarships: 44 (including co-tutorship and national interest programs)
• Eligible Applicants: All nationalities
• Application Deadline: 18 August 2025, 14:59 (Italian time)
• Duration: 3 years
• Languages: English and Italian
• Fields of Study: 35 disciplines in Engineering, Architecture, Medicine, ICT, Social Sciences, Humanities, and more
• Funding Includes: Annual stipend, mobility allowance, tuition exemption, and tax benefits

About the University of Palermo PhD Programs

The University of Palermo is offering 44 prestigious doctoral positions in its 41st PhD cycle, including:

• 22 co-tutorship scholarships in collaboration with renowned research institutions.
• 15 Doctorates of National Interest supporting multidisciplinary research.
• Additional positions funded by public or private organizations (to be confirmed within six months of program start).

These scholarships aim to prepare highly skilled researchers committed to knowledge-based, socially responsible, and sustainable development in Italy and beyond.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful candidates will receive:

• Annual gross stipend of €16,243.
• 50% stipend increase for approved research or training abroad.
• Renewal based on satisfactory academic progress.
• Travel grants for non-scholarship PhD candidates conducting research abroad.
• Tuition and fee exemption for students with disabilities (≥66%), MAECI scholarship holders, or foreign government-funded students.
• Tax benefits in accordance with Italian regulations.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Academic Qualifications:

• Master’s degree, specialist degree, or equivalent qualification (as per Italian decrees).
• Foreign qualifications equivalent to an Italian master’s degree (minimum 4 years of study).

Additional Notes:

• PhD holders may apply without scholarship funding.
• Final-year master’s students can apply but must graduate before enrollment.
• Degrees earned abroad must include a degree certificate or Diploma Supplement (in Italian or English).

Sicilian Region Scholarships:

• Open to graduates born or residing in Sicily.
• Maximum age: 35 years.
• Must commit to 8–12 months of research or study abroad.

Application Fee: €50 via PagoPA (non-refundable) unless exempt.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• CV in Europass format.
• Research proposal (objectives and expected outcomes).
• Self-certification of degree and transcripts.
• Diploma Supplement for foreign qualifications.
• Proof of additional academic qualifications or publications.
• Passport or ID copy.
• Medical certificate (for disabilities above 66%).
• Exam transcript for graduating students.

Selection Process

The admission process is based on a 100-point evaluation:

1. Research Project Evaluation – 30 points (minimum 20 to pass)
   • Originality – 15 points
   • Relevance to chosen PhD program – 10 points
   • Methodology and literature knowledge – 5 points
2. Qualifications Assessment – 10 points (only if research project passes)
3. Online Interview – 60 points (minimum 20 to pass) via Microsoft Teams

Applicants may apply for multiple PhD programs, but each requires a separate application.

How to Apply

1. Register on the University of Palermo Student Portal.
2. Select “PhD Courses – Call for Applicants” and complete the application form.
3. Upload all required documents in PDF format.
4. Pay the €50 participation fee via PagoPA (if applicable).
5. Submit the application before the deadline and ensure it shows as BOLLETTINO PAGATO or CONSEGNATA.
6. Monitor the official university website for updates and interview schedules.

Application Deadline: 18 August 2025, 14:59 (Italian time)

For complete details, visit the official University of Palermo website or consult the official call for applications.