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Study in Italy | University of Bologna PhD Scholarships 2026

March 7, 2026 10:18 am

Study in Italy | University of Bologna PhD Scholarships 2026

Imagine spending the next four years in one of Europe’s most historic academic institutions, pocketing a solid monthly stipend, and building a research career that actually translates to the real world. That is exactly what the University of Bologna offers with its 42nd cycle PhD call for 2026/2027.

This fully funded programme in Political and Social Sciences is not your typical academic grind. It is English taught, runs for four years, and puts €1,350 net in your bank account every month. Even better, that figure jumps by 50 percent when you head abroad for research. If you care about comparative politics, global sociology, or international security, this is your launchpad.

What the funding actually looks like

Let’s talk numbers because they matter. You receive roughly €1,350 net per month as your base scholarship. From your second year onward, the university adds at least 10 percent more to your budget specifically for research travel and materials. Planning a stint at a foreign archive or partner institution? Your monthly payment increases by half for the entire duration you spend outside Italy.

Most positions come with a full tuition waiver. You only pay a tiny annual enrolment fee around €157. That is it. On top of this, international candidates can apply for the International PhD College, which offers housing subsidies up to €500 per month if you qualify.

Who gets through the door

This opportunity targets outstanding graduates from anywhere in the world. You need a master’s level degree equivalent to an Italian Laurea Magistrale. You must have obtained that degree no more than five years before applying. If you are still studying, you can apply as long as you graduate by October 31, 2026.

English proficiency is a must. You also need to pay a non refundable €10 application fee through the university portal. Prepare a detailed research proposal of up to 3,000 words that fits one of the programme’s main curricula. Use the specific University of Bologna template for your CV. Upload everything with official translations if your documents are not in English or Italian.

One important rule. You must explicitly declare if you used Generative AI to help draft your research proposal. Honesty matters here.

How to Apply

Start by visiting the studenti online portal. Create your account and grab your login credentials. First time users should hit “Register” to begin.

Once logged in, select “Admission application.” Choose the “PhD Programme” category and look specifically for the 42nd Cycle in Political and Social Sciences. Fill in the online forms carefully. Upload your CV, degree transcripts, and research proposal. Make sure everything meets the format requirements.

You can submit up to two reference letters from academics or professionals who know your work. If the selection committee shortlists you, expect a remote interview via Microsoft Teams. Do not wait until the last second. The portal locks down tight and will not accept any uploads after the system closes.

Click Here to Apply

Why this PhD changes your career trajectory

The 42nd cycle does more than fund your research. It actively builds your professional toolkit. You get a 50 percent top up on your monthly grant for authorised periods abroad, up to 12 months. That means you can collaborate with top international partners without worrying about cash.

You also join a unique “Transversal Competencies” track. This includes modules on Generative AI Ethics, research project management, and public speaking. These skills prepare you for high level roles in academia and strategic consulting alike.

The programme also pushes International Co-tutorships. You can conduct your research under joint supervision from two different countries. This often leads to a Double or Joint Degree, a credential that screams versatility to employers worldwide.

Application Deadline

Submit your application before 11:59 pm CEST on March 30, 2026. That is the hard deadline for the 42nd cycle PhD in Political and Social Sciences. Technical delays happen on the final day, so early submission saves headaches. Get it done, and get ready for four years of fully funded research in the heart of Italy.