For scientists from developing countries who want to continue their research at PhD level, the TWAS PhD Fellowships 2026 provide an opportunity to pursue doctoral research at selected institutions in developing countries.
The programme supports scientific training in areas ranging from agricultural and biological sciences to chemistry, engineering, physics and other scientific disciplines.
About TWAS PhD Fellowships
The TWAS PhD Fellowships are designed for scientists from developing countries in the Global South who want to pursue PhD research.
The fellowships can be hosted in countries including Brazil, China, India, Pakistan and South Africa, depending on the specific fellowship programme. TWAS lists fields including agricultural sciences, biological sciences, medical and health sciences, chemical sciences, engineering, astronomy and earth sciences, mathematics, physics, and social and economic sciences.
The general TWAS PhD Fellowship page currently lists October 11, 2026 as the relevant deadline. However, applicants should check the individual fellowship programme because TWAS operates several different fellowship schemes with different conditions.
TWAS PhD Fellowships 2026 Benefits
Depending on the specific TWAS programme, fellows may receive support associated with their doctoral study and research.
The main opportunity is:
- PhD-level research training.
- Placement at participating research institutions.
- Access to scientific research facilities.
- International research experience.
- The opportunity to study in participating developing countries.
- Fellowship support for the approved duration of the programme.
The exact financial benefits depend on the specific TWAS fellowship being applied for.
TWAS PhD Fellowships Eligibility Requirements
The general TWAS PhD Fellowship page states that applicants must:
- Be citizens of a developing country in the Global South.
- Hold a relevant MSc degree.
- Meet the age requirement for the specific programme; the general fellowship listing gives 35 years as the age limit for the relevant programme.
- Apply in an eligible scientific field.
- Meet the requirements of the selected host institution.
- Obtain preliminary acceptance where required.
TWAS also states that applicants can apply for only one programme per calendar year across the TWAS and OWSD portfolio.
Documents Needed for TWAS PhD Fellowships
Applicants should be prepared to provide documents such as;
- Academic certificates.
- Academic transcripts.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Research proposal or research plan, where required.
- Evidence of eligibility.
- Preliminary acceptance letter where required.
- Identification or proof of citizenship.
- Other documents requested by the particular fellowship programme.
Applicants should also check the individual TWAS programme page, as requirements can differ.
How to Apply for TWAS PhD Fellowships
Kindly follow the steps below to apply for the programme;
- Visit the official TWAS fellowship website.
- Select the PhD fellowship programme that matches your academic field.
- Read the eligibility requirements carefully.
- Check whether the call is open.
- Identify the appropriate host institution.
- Obtain preliminary acceptance if the programme requires it.
- Prepare your academic and research documents.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit the application before the applicable deadline.
However, TWAS advises applicants to seek preliminary acceptance as early as possible because an acceptance letter may be required for the application.
TWAS PhD Fellowships Official Page
For more information about the programme, visit the official page using the link below.
TWAS PhD Fellowships – Official Page
FAQs
Who can apply?
Scientists from eligible developing countries in the Global South can apply if they meet the requirements of the particular fellowship.
What degree is required?
The general programme information lists an MSc as the minimum degree for the relevant PhD fellowship.
What fields are available?
Fields include sciences such as chemistry, biology, agriculture, engineering, physics, mathematics, medical sciences, and others.
What is the deadline?
The general TWAS PhD Fellowship page currently lists October 11, 2026.
Can I apply for several TWAS programmes in the same year?
TWAS states that applicants may apply for only one programme per calendar year across the TWAS and OWSD portfolio.
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