EDUFI Fellowships for PhD Students in Finland

The EDUFI Fellowship is a scholarship program offered by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI) for doctoral-level studies and research at Finnish universities.

Host Country	Finland
Host Institute	A university in Finland
Level	PhD
Eligible Nationality	All
Benefits	Up to EUR 1,900/month
Duration	3 to 12 months
Closing Date	Can apply anytime

EDUFI Fellowships Overview

EDUFI Fellowships are primarily targeted at young doctoral students and researchers from all countries (excluding Finland), who wish to carry out research or pursue postgraduate studies at Finnish universities. The program is open to all academic fields and emphasizes collaboration with Finnish institutions, requiring that applicants be invited by a Finnish university department. The fellowship does not cover tuition fees but focuses on research-related activities, making it particularly suitable for doctoral candidates or researchers who have secured other funding for their academic programs.

Applying for the EDUFI Fellowship early offers several benefits:

1. Guaranteed Processing Time:
   • Applications must be submitted at least five months before the planned start of the fellowship. Submitting early ensures that your application is processed within this timeframe, allowing for better planning and preparation.
2. Increased Flexibility:
   • Early application provides more flexibility in case any additional documentation is required or if there are delays in processing. This allows for adjustments without impacting the start date.
3. Better Planning for Research:
   • Knowing the outcome of your application well in advance helps in planning your research project more effectively. It allows you to coordinate with your host university and make necessary arrangements for your stay in Finland.
4. Potential for Earlier Start:
   • If your application is processed quickly, you might be able to start your fellowship earlier than anticipated, which can be beneficial for those eager to begin their research.
5. Reduced Summer Delays:
   • Submitting your application early avoids the longer processing times that occur during the summer months, ensuring a smoother application process.

Overall, applying early for the EDUFI Fellowship helps in securing a timely start to your research project and ensures that you can make the most of your time in Finland.

What are the eligibility criteria for the EDUFI Fellowship?

The EDUFI Fellowship is designed for non-Finnish doctoral students or young researchers. Here are the key eligibility criteria:

1. Nationality and Residency:
   • Open to all foreign nationals.
   • The applicant should not have resided in Finland for more than one year at the time of application. However, there are exceptions for Ukrainian doctoral researchers due to the Russian invasion.
2. Academic Level:
   • The fellowship is intended for post-graduate (post Master’s degree) students.
   • It cannot be granted for bachelor’s, master’s, or postdoctoral studies.
3. Research Purpose:
   • The grant is for starting work on a doctoral research project if the whole doctoral thesis will be completed at a Finnish university.
   • It can also be used for completing a double degree in Finland or for a study visit if there are compelling reasons for cooperation.
4. Application Process:
   • The application must be submitted by a representative of a Finnish university department, usually the research supervisor.
5. PhD Status:
   • You do not need to have an official PhD student status to apply, but the research must be part of your PhD project.
6. Fields of Study:
   • Available for all fields of study.
7. Additional Requirements:
   • The applicant should provide reports on the use of previously awarded EDUFI Fellowship grants, if applicable.
   • The application must comply with any sanctions imposed by Finland and the European Union.

How can I find a Finnish host university for the EDUFI Fellowship?

Finding a Finnish host university for the EDUFI Fellowship involves several steps:

Steps to Find a Finnish Host University:

1. Research Finnish Universities:
   • Visit the websites of Finnish universities to explore their research focus areas and potential host departments. Look for departments that align with your research interests.
   • Some notable universities include the University of Helsinki, Aalto University, and the University of Oulu.
2. Identify Potential Supervisors:
   • Look for researchers or professors in your field who could potentially supervise your research. Check their publications and research profiles.
   • You can use academic databases like Google Scholar or ResearchGate to find relevant researchers.
3. Contact Potential Hosts:
   • Reach out to potential supervisors or departments via email. Introduce yourself, describe your research interests, and express your interest in applying for the EDUFI Fellowship.
   • Attach your CV and a brief research proposal to help them assess your fit with their department.
4. Discuss Application Details:
   • If a department expresses interest in hosting you, discuss the application process and ensure they are willing to apply on your behalf.
   • Confirm that they can provide the necessary facilities and supervision for your research.
5. Visit University Websites for More Information:
   • Check the websites of Finnish universities for detailed information on doctoral-level study and research options they offer.

What are the key documents needed for the EDUFI Fellowship application?

To apply for the EDUFI Fellowship, the following key documents are required:

1. Application Form:
   • The form can be downloaded from the EDUFI website and must be filled in Finnish, Swedish, or English.
   • It should be submitted by a Finnish university department representative on the candidate’s behalf.
2. Motivation Letter:
   • Written by the representative of the Finnish university department, usually the research supervisor.
   • It should explain why the fellowship is necessary and provide strong grounds for the application, especially for visiting researchers.
3. Curriculum Vitae (CV):
   • A complete CV of the scholarship candidate, highlighting their academic background and research experience.
4. Research Plan:
   • A detailed plan outlining the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes (typically 3-5 pages).
5. Progress Report (if applicable):
   • For subsequent applications, a free-form progress report may be required to update on the research progress.

What is the application process for EDUFI Fellowships?

1. Contact a Finnish University Department:
   • Interested candidates must first contact a Finnish university department that can host them. This department will apply for the fellowship on their behalf.
   • The host department should be willing to provide facilities and supervision for the research.
2. Required Documents:
   • Motivation Letter: Written by the representative of the Finnish university department, usually the research supervisor.
   • CV: Complete Curriculum Vitae of the scholarship candidate.
   • Research Plan: Detailed plan outlining the research objectives and methodology.
3. Submission:
   • The application must be submitted by a representative of a Finnish university department via email to the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI).
   • The application form is available on the EDUFI website and can be filled in Finnish, Swedish, or English.
   • Send the signed form and annexes via email to kirjaamo(at)oph.fi, using “EDUFI Fellowship” as the subject line.
4. Timing:
   • Applications can be submitted at any time during the year but must be received at least five months before the planned start of the fellowship.
   • The processing time is approximately three months, with longer processing times during the summer.
5. Grant Award and Payment:
   • The grant is awarded to the Finnish university department, which pays the fellow a personal grant of EUR 1,900 per month.
   • The university then invoices EDUFI for reimbursement.

Can I apply for the EDUFI Fellowship at any time of the year?

Yes, you can apply for the EDUFI Fellowship at any time of the year. However, applications must be submitted at least five months before the intended start of the fellowship. The processing time is approximately three months, with longer processing times during the summer.

The application must be submitted by a representative of a Finnish university department on behalf of the candidate, not by the candidate themselves.

Appy link

More Scholarships?

Fairleigh Dickinson University Scholarships for International Students in USA

Melbourne International Undergraduate Scholarship

MPOWER Global Citizen Scholarship – Study in the USA, Canada

Hoffman Agency HBCU Scholarship for International Students in the USA

Bocconi Graduate Merit Awards – Free Scholarships in Italy