Italy has always been a hub for culture, history, and innovation, but in recent decades it has also emerged as an important center for higher education and advanced research. For students who want to pursue a PhD in Europe, one of the most prestigious opportunities is the SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025.The International School for Advanced Studies (SISSA), located in Trieste, offers this fully funded doctoral program to international students who aspire to specialize in Mathematics, Physics, and Neuroscience. SISSA is renowned across Europe for its strong research environment, outstanding faculty, and a tradition of academic excellence.

With this scholarship, candidates not only receive financial support but also gain access to an international community of scholars, state-of-the-art laboratories, and mentors who are leaders in their respective fields. For ambitious students eager to make contributions in science and technology, the SISSA PhD Scholarship provides a platform to explore new ideas and advance their careers.

About SISSA: The International School for Advanced Studies

Founded in 1978, SISSA (Scuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati) has built a strong reputation as one of Europe’s leading postgraduate research institutions. It is located in Trieste, a city widely recognized as a scientific hub that hosts several international research centers and universities.

Why Study at SISSA?

• Global Reputation: Known for excellence in theoretical physics, mathematics, and neuroscience.

• Research Environment: Students are immersed in high-level research projects with global collaborations.
• International Community: Nearly one-third of the student body is composed of international students.
• English-Taught Programs: All PhD courses are conducted in English, ensuring accessibility for students from different countries.

SISSA’s mission is to combine academic training with research opportunities, enabling PhD candidates to contribute meaningfully to their fields while preparing for careers in academia, research institutes, or industry.

SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025: At a Glance

Scholarship Summary

• Country: Italy
• Host Institution: SISSA (Trieste)
• Study Level: PhD
• Duration: 4 years
• Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
• Application Deadline: 31 August 2025 (13:00 Italian time)

This program is designed for highly motivated students with a strong academic background and a keen interest in research. Whether in Mathematics, Physics, or Neuroscience, candidates benefit from financial support and top-level training.

Benefits of the SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025

SISSA provides a comprehensive package to ensure that students can focus on their studies and research without financial stress.

Financial Support

• Annual Fellowship: €16,242.96 gross (about €14,000 net per year)

• Relocation Allowance:
  • €1,000 for non-EU students
  • €500 for EU students
• Monthly Rent Contribution: €150 if renting in Trieste with a valid contract
• Laptop Contribution: Up to €400

Additional Support

• Travel and Training Funds: Up to €1,000 in the 3rd and 4th years

• Health Insurance Reimbursement: Up to €700 per year for non-EU students or those needing private coverage
• Parental/Maternity Leave: Provided as per Italian regulations

These benefits highlight SISSA’s commitment to supporting its students not only academically but also in terms of living conditions and research-related expenses.

Eligibility Criteria for SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025

The SISSA PhD Scholarship is open to all nationalities with no age restrictions. However, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

• Degree Requirement: Must hold (or be in the process of completing) a Master’s degree or equivalent, such as a Laurea Magistrale.
• Academic Background: Strong foundation in relevant subjects such as mathematics, physics, or neuroscience, depending on the chosen program.
• Final Degree Deadline: The final degree must be officially awarded before enrollment at SISSA.

Applicants are evaluated primarily on academic qualifications, research potential, and motivation for pursuing doctoral research.

Research Fields under SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025

The scholarship is available in three main areas, with several programs under each. Not all calls remain open until the final deadline, so applicants should carefully check availability.

Mathematics Area

• Geometry and Mathematical Physics
• Mathematical Analysis, Modelling, and Applications

Physics Area

• Astroparticle Physics
• Astrophysics and Cosmology
• Statistical and Molecular Biophysics
• Statistical Physics
• Theoretical Particle Physics
• Theoretical and Scientific Data Science
• Theory and Numerical Simulation of Condensed Matter

Neuroscience Area

• Cognitive Neuroscience
• Functional and Structural Genomics
• Neurobiology

SISSA has strong collaborations with international research centers in Trieste, making these programs highly interdisciplinary and cutting-edge.

How to Apply for the SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025

The application process is straightforward but requires careful preparation. All applications must be submitted online through the PICA platform.

Step-by-Step Application Process

• Read the Official Call: Each PhD program has its own call with specific deadlines, eligibility requirements, and required documents.
• Register on PICA Platform: Create a new account or log in using LOGINMIUR credentials if already registered.
• Start Application: Select the correct PhD program call. Carefully fill out each section of the application form.
• Upload Documents: Submit required documents in PDF format, including CV, transcripts, and degree certificates.
• Provide Referee Details: Two referees must be added. They will receive an email with instructions to upload their recommendation letters.
• Submit Application: Review carefully before submission. Some programs may require printing and signing a generated PDF.
• Confirmation Emails: You will receive two emails—one with an application ID and another with an official protocol number.
• Make Edits (if needed): Applications can be withdrawn and resubmitted before the deadline.
• Wait for Updates: Selection results, written exams, or interview invitations will be sent via email.

Documents Required

• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Statement of Purpose or research interest
• Two recommendation letters (uploaded by referees)
• Copy of passport or identification
• Proof of English proficiency (if required for program)

Language of Instruction

All PhD programs at SISSA are taught in English. There is no requirement to know Italian, which makes the scholarship widely accessible for international students. However, living in Trieste offers an opportunity to learn Italian for daily communication.

Duration and Structure of the Program

The PhD program lasts four years, during which candidates engage in:

• Coursework: Intensive training in core subjects
• Research: Independent projects supervised by experienced faculty
• Seminars and Conferences: Opportunities to present research and collaborate internationally
• Publications: Encouragement to publish findings in peer-reviewed journals

The program emphasizes a balance of coursework and original research, ensuring students are prepared for careers in academia or industry.

Selection Process

Admission is based on academic qualifications, research experience, and application documents. Depending on the program, candidates may also undergo:

• Written Examinations
• Oral Interviews (in Trieste or online)

The evaluation aims to identify students with strong research potential and a genuine interest in their chosen field.

Living in Trieste, Italy

Trieste is not only a scenic city on the Adriatic coast but also a European hub for science and research. It hosts several prestigious institutions, including ICTP (International Centre for Theoretical Physics) and Elettra Synchrotron.

Why Trieste?

• Multicultural Environment: International student community

• Cost of Living: More affordable than major Italian cities
• Research Network: Access to multiple research institutes in the city
• Quality of Life: Beautiful landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and cultural richness

For PhD students, Trieste offers both academic excellence and a high quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the deadline for SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025?

The deadline is 31 August 2025 at 13:00 Italian time.

2. Who can apply?

Applicants of all nationalities are welcome. The only requirement is to hold or be completing a Master’s degree or equivalent before enrollment.

3. What financial support is included?

An annual fellowship of €16,242.96 gross (around €14,000 net), relocation allowance, rent contribution, laptop funding, health insurance reimbursement, and travel support.

4. How long does the program last?

The scholarship covers a four-year PhD program.

5. Which fields are available?

Programs are offered in Mathematics, Physics, and Neuroscience.

6. What language are the programs taught in?

All programs are conducted in English.

7. How is admission decided?

Based on academic merit, research background, submitted documents, and in some cases, exams or interviews.

8. Why Apply for the SISSA PhD Scholarship 2025?

The SISSA PhD Scholarship offers:

• Full Funding – eliminates financial concerns.
• Research Excellence – access to international collaborations and top faculty.
• Global Community – work alongside students from across the world.
• Professional Growth – opportunities for publications, conferences, and academic networking.
• Ideal Location – Trieste combines science, culture, and affordability.

For students passionate about advancing knowledge in mathematics, physics, or neuroscience, this scholarship represents a transformative opportunity.

Apply Now Official Link Join our WhatsApp Channel