Milano-Bicocca PhD scholarships for international students

Scholarship Overview

The University of Milano-Bicocca has opened applications for Session II of its 42nd-cycle doctoral admissions for the 2026/2027 academic year. Unlike general university intakes, this session is specifically designed for PhD programmes that secured additional funding from companies, departmental grants, or external institutional partners after the initial recruitment round. Applicants are encouraged to review specific project sheets rather than general recruitment advertisements, as these positions are tied to defined research objectives.

Can Pakistani Students Apply?

Yes, Pakistani students are eligible to apply. The Milano-Bicocca PhD scholarships are open to international applicants who hold a master’s degree or an equivalent foreign qualification that grants access to doctoral-level studies. If you are currently in the final year of your master’s program, you are eligible to apply provided you obtain your qualifying degree by October 31, 2026.

Funding and Benefits

The standard PhD scholarship at the University of Milano-Bicocca is valued at €16,243 gross per year. This typically results in an indicative net monthly payment of approximately €1,200. Please note that funding conditions may vary depending on the specific source of the scholarship, such as an industrial partner or a specific research grant. For more on navigating expenses, refer to our student passport guide.

Eligibility Criteria

Eligibility is determined on a project-by-project basis. Candidates must demonstrate that their previous academic background—including thesis work, laboratory experience, and professional skills—is directly relevant to the advertised project. Depending on the research position, fields of study may include physics, computer science, medicine, biotechnology, economics, neuroscience, and environmental science.

Required Documents

While requirements vary by specific programme, you should prepare the following documents for your application:

• Academic CV
• Master’s and bachelor’s degree records
• Transcripts of courses and grades
• Identification document
• Research proposal
• Master’s thesis abstract
• Motivation statement
• Publications or conference contributions
• Reference letters
• Evidence of professional or research experience

Application Timeline

Candidates must adhere to the deadlines specified in the official call for each doctoral programme. As this is a specific session for additional positions, timelines are strict. Ensure you monitor the official application portal regularly for updates on submission windows.

Selection Process

Selection is merit-based and conducted through an assessment of qualifications and often an interview. Because many positions are tied to specific industrial or departmental partnerships, the selection committee will prioritize candidates whose skills match the research project requirements. For tips on standing out, consult our application strategies.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted exclusively through the University of Milano-Bicocca online admission system. Once submitted, applications cannot be modified or withdrawn to replace documents, so ensure all files are finalized before the final submission.

Pakistan-Specific Application Advice

Pakistani students should ensure their documents are translated according to official university requirements. If your previous degree was taught in English, check if the specific programme accepts a Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter in place of an IELTS or TOEFL score. Always cross-reference university admission requirements with Italian visa regulations regarding your academic credentials.

Important Terms and Limitations

Not every admitted PhD student is guaranteed a scholarship. Some positions are offered without funding. Carefully review the funding column of the project description before applying. Furthermore, admission to the university is a separate process from the visa application; ensure you follow the instructions on the Universitaly portal as required for non-EU citizens.