PhD Scholarships in Spain

Spain, with its rich cultural heritage, high-quality education system, and diverse research resources, attracts numerous international students pursuing doctoral degrees. Whether through government-funded scholarships, international foundations, or EU-sponsored programs, Spain offers a wide range of funding opportunities for PhD students. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of Spain’s major fully funded PhD scholarships to help aspiring students explore their options for doctoral study.

I. Government-Funded PhD Scholarships in Spain

1.1 FPU Scholarship (University Teacher Training Scholarship)

The FPU scholarship, established by the Spanish Ministry of Education and Vocational Training (Ministerio de Educación y Formación Profesional), aims to train future university professors. It is open to PhD students in all academic fields conducting their doctoral research at Spanish universities.

Each year, the Spanish government awards 885 FPU scholarships. Recipients receive a monthly stipend of €1,230.08 in the first year, €1,317.95 in the second year, and €1,647.44 in the third and fourth years. Additionally, two extra payments are made annually. The FPU not only provides financial support but also offers opportunities for teaching and research at Spanish higher education institutions.

1.2 Salvador de Madariaga Scholarship

This scholarship supports outstanding Spanish PhD students conducting research at the European University Institute (EUI). It focuses on disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, law, economics, and political science.

It provides funding for four years: €1,300/month for the first two years and €1,700/month for the last two years, plus an annual travel allowance of €700. Applicants must hold a master's degree in a relevant field and have English proficiency at the C1 level.

II. PhD Scholarships from International Foundations

2.1 “la Caixa” Foundation – INPhINIT Fellowship Program

The INPhINIT Fellowship by the “la Caixa” Foundation supports early-stage researchers from around the world to pursue PhD studies in Spain or Portugal. It has two categories:

• Incoming: For international PhD candidates conducting STEM research in Spanish/Portuguese research centers.
• Retaining: For international PhD candidates conducting research in any academic discipline.

The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.

2.2 Erasmus Mundus Joint Degree Scholarships

Funded by the EU, Erasmus Mundus supports the internationalization of European higher education through fully funded joint master’s and doctoral programs.

It includes tuition, travel, living allowance, and health insurance, allowing students to study across multiple European universities. Requirements vary by program.

2.3 Fundación Carolina Scholarship

Fundación Carolina, established by the Spanish government, promotes academic and cultural exchange between Spain and Latin American countries. It offers scholarships to Latin American researchers for PhD study in Spain.

The scholarship covers tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance.

2.4 Fulbright Scholarship

Funded by the U.S. government, the Fulbright Program promotes educational and cultural exchange between the U.S. and other countries. It supports Spanish students conducting research in the U.S., and international students doing research in Spain.

It includes tuition, living expenses, travel, and insurance.

2.5 Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA)

Marie Curie Fellowships, funded by the EU, support the career development and international mobility of researchers. The program provides opportunities for research across European institutions, including those in Spain.

It covers research funding, a monthly stipend, travel, and health insurance.

III. PhD Scholarships Offered by Spanish Universities

3.1 University of Granada

The University of Granada offers scholarships to international PhD students, covering tuition, living expenses, and research funding.

3.2 Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM)

UAM provides scholarships based on academic merit and financial need to support outstanding PhD candidates.

3.3 Carlos III University of Madrid

This university offers merit-based scholarships for international students pursuing doctoral studies.

3.4 Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB)

UAB offers a variety of scholarships for PhD research, including tuition waivers and living stipends.

3.5 Barcelona School of Economics (BSE)

BSE provides scholarships to top-performing students in its PhD programs, covering tuition and living expenses.

IV. Key Considerations for Applying

4.1 Application Deadlines

Deadlines vary by program. Applicants should check the official websites of each scholarship for specific dates and requirements.

4.2 Eligibility Criteria

Each scholarship has different eligibility requirements. Some, like the Fundación Carolina scholarship, are limited to applicants from Ibero-American countries, while programs like INPhINIT are open to global candidates. Most scholarships require a master’s degree or proof of imminent completion.

Common application materials include:

• Research proposal
• Academic CV
• Letters of recommendation
• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or DELE)
• Acceptance letter from a supervisor or host institution

Some programs may also require an interview.

4.3 Scholarship Coverage

Funding varies, but most fully funded scholarships (e.g., FPU, INPhINIT, Marie Curie) typically include:

• Monthly stipend (€1,000–€1,800)
• Full tuition waiver
• Travel grants
• Research expenses
• Health insurance
• Relocation allowance (for some programs like Marie Curie)

Applicants should assess the coverage and match it to their financial needs and research plans.

4.4 Language Requirements & Support for International Students

While Spanish is the primary language of instruction, many PhD programs—especially in STEM—are offered in English. International scholarships often require English at B2/C1 level but may waive formal tests if assessed directly by the project committee.

Most Spanish universities have International Offices that provide support with visas, housing, and registration, making the process smoother for international students.

V. Strategies & Tips for Finding Scholarships

5.1 Use Official Resources

Start by exploring these platforms (for example):

• Ministry of Education and Vocational Training
• la Caixa Foundation
• University websites

5.2 Proactively Contact Supervisors

For research-specific scholarships like FPU or Marie Curie, contacting potential supervisors is essential. Browse research group pages, identify matching interests, and email professors with:

• A short bio
• Academic background
• Master’s thesis summary
• Research proposal
• Explanation of shared research interests

5.3 Prepare Strong Application Documents

Due to intense competition, application materials must be meticulously prepared:

• Motivation Letter: Link your goals with the scholarship and university.
• Research Proposal: Clear objectives, methods, and expected outcomes.
• Recommendation Letters: From supervisors or internship mentors.
• Language Certificates: IELTS, TOEFL, or DELE.
• Academic Transcripts: Translated versions in English/Spanish.
• Supervisor Acceptance Letter: If required by the program.

VI. Advantages and Future Prospects of PhD Study in Spain

Spain stands out among European countries with a modern, internationally aligned doctoral training system that emphasizes interdisciplinary research, international collaboration, and applied outcomes.

Students benefit from cutting-edge research in fields such as:

• Biomedicine
• Renewable energy
• Social sciences
• Linguistics
• Environmental engineering
• Artificial intelligence

Post-PhD, graduates can pursue academic careers, work in national research institutes, or enter industry R&D. Spanish doctoral degrees are widely recognized across Europe and globally.

Additionally, Spain offers a lower cost of living than countries like the UK, Germany, or France. Its pleasant climate, vibrant cities (Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia), and international academic community make it an ideal destination for study and life.

VII. Conclusion

Spain offers a diverse and comprehensive range of PhD scholarship opportunities for international students. From government-funded programs like FPU and Salvador de Madariaga, to international foundations like “la Caixa”, Erasmus Mundus, and Marie Curie, to scholarships offered by universities and private foundations, Spain has built a robust support system for doctoral education.

Whether you're a researcher in humanities, technology, social sciences, or life sciences, if you have a strong academic background and a clear research goal, Spain can provide the support you need to succeed.

To secure a scholarship, start early, research thoroughly, contact supervisors proactively, and prepare high-quality application materials. With careful planning and execution, you can take the first solid step toward a rewarding research career in Spain.