69 Master’s & PhD Scholarships and Fellowships October 2026

Opportunity Desk is inviting applications for 69 Master’s and PhD scholarships and fellowships available in October 2026. This extensive list offers opportunities for students worldwide to pursue postgraduate studies and research in various fields. Many of these programs provide full funding, including tuition, living stipends, and travel expenses.

Application Closing Date: Varies
Location: Global
Programme Duration: Varies
Stipend: Varies
Minimum Qualification: Postgraduate Degree
Opportunity Type: Scholarship, Fellowship

About the Master’s & PhD Scholarships and Fellowships October 2026

This collection of scholarships and fellowships is designed to support aspiring postgraduate students and researchers across the globe. The opportunities span a wide range of disciplines, from international relations and public health to artificial intelligence and neuroscience. Many of these programs aim to foster academic excellence, promote international collaboration, and support individuals who may not otherwise have the financial means to pursue advanced studies.

The listed opportunities include fully funded scholarships, research fellowships, and grants, often covering tuition fees, accommodation, monthly stipends, travel, and research materials. They are ideal for individuals seeking to advance their academic careers, contribute to groundbreaking research, and gain international experience. The application deadlines are spread throughout October 2026, offering a broad window for interested candidates to prepare and submit their applications.

About Opportunity Desk

Opportunity Desk is a global platform dedicated to sharing opportunities for personal and professional development. It serves as a central hub for scholarships, fellowships, grants, jobs, and internships worldwide. The platform aims to empower individuals, particularly youth and students, by providing access to information that can help them achieve their educational and career goals.

Opportunity Desk curates and lists opportunities from various institutions, governments, and organizations, making it easier for people to discover and apply for programs that align with their aspirations. Their mission is to bridge the information gap and provide equitable access to opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds.

Available Master’s & PhD Scholarships and Fellowships

This extensive list features a diverse range of postgraduate opportunities for 2026 and 2027. The programs cater to various academic interests and career aspirations.

• Maria Rosario Lazzati Niada Scholarship for Afghan Women 2027-2028
• Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) 2027/2028
• Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarship at the University of Toronto 2027-2028
• Mastercard Foundation AfOx Graduate Scholarships 2027-2028
• Gates Cambridge Scholarships 2027-2028 (Fully-funded)
• Nordic Scholarship Programme 2027 for Researchers
• Yenching Academy at Peking University 2027 – Full Scholarship for Master’s Study in China
• Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2027/2028 (Fully-funded)
• Commonwealth PhD Scholarships 2027/2028 (Fully-Funded)
• Swiss Government Excellence Scholarships 2027-2028 for Foreign Scholars & Artists
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship 2027 (up to $50,000)
• IAEA Marie Sklodowska-Curie Fellowship Programme 2026
• Asian Development Bank-Japan Scholarship Program 2026
• Australian Catholic University (ACU) Stipend Scholarship 2026-2027
• Chevening Scholarship to Study in the UK 2027-2028 (Fully-funded)
• France-South Africa Scholarship Programme 2026
• Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship 2027 for Studies in the United Kingdom
• Rhodes Scholarships 2027 for Study at the University of Oxford (Fully-funded)
• Glendon Chase McCormick Scholarship 2026
• Johns Hopkins SAIS Public Service Fellows – Scholarship Program 2026
• Michael D. Eisner Arts & Culture Fellowship 2027
• British Academy Innovation Fellowships Scheme 2026 (up to £120,000)
• Foundation for American Innovation Conservative AI Policy Fellowship (CAPF) 2027
• Fellowship in Outbreak Readiness for Global Health Protection (FOR-GHP) 2026
• Mentora Scholars Fellowship 2027 (Fully-funded)
• beVisioneers: The Mercedes-Benz Fellowship 2027/2028
• Rare Disease Reporting Fellowship and Grants 2026 (up to $2,000)
• Center for Eastern European Studies (CEES) Fellowship Program 2027 (Funded)
• Royal Society Career Development Fellowship 2027 (Funded)
• Jim Leech Mastercard Foundation Fellowship on Entrepreneurship 2027
• AGORA Fellowship 2027 for Mid-career Leaders [Cohort 2]
• Internet Society Fellowship Program 2027 (up to $5,000)
• Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Program 2027 ($100,000 stipend)
• Equality Fund Journalism Fellowship 2026-2027 ($4,000 CAD stipend)
• Aarhus Institute of Advanced Studies (AIAS) Visiting Fellowships 2027 (Funded)
• NNF-IAS Fellowship 2027-2029 for Researchers
• AIAS-Riksbankens Jubileumsfond Fellowship 2027-2028 (Funded)
• AIAS-AUFF Fellowship 2027-2028 (Funded)
• Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders 2027 (Fully-funded to the U.S.)
• Naija Feminists Media Editorial Fellowship on Reproductive Health 2026
• Citizen AI Arts & Technology Fellowship 2026-2027 ($3,000 stipend)
• Perplexity Research Fellowship 2027 (paid)
• 1834 Global Fellowship 2027 for Black Canadians
• Polyfoni Social Sciences for AI Fellowship 2026-2027
• Interactivity Foundation Collaborative Discussion Emerging Fellowship 2027 ($6,000 stipend)
• The Open Notebook Early-Career Fellowship Program 2027 ($6,600 stipend)
• Jean Monnet Fellowship in the Social Sciences & Humanities for Postdoctoral Researchers 2027-2028
• Teach for Uganda STEM Fellowship 2026
• AfricaLics PhD Visiting Fellowship Programme (VFP) 2027
• Maple Global Innovation Fellowship 2026
• NSF Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Fundamental Interactions (IAIFI) Fellowship 2027-2030
• Amelia Earhart Fellowship 2027 (up to $12,000)
• Harris Social Impact Fellowship 2027-2028 (Funded)
• AWARD Women in Agriculture Leadership Program Fellowship 2026 [Cohort 2]
• Global Changemaker Fellowship 2026
• Clooney Foundation for Justice (CFJ) Fellowship 2027
• I AM NALA Fellowship – Call for 2027
• International Affairs Fellowship in Canada 2027-2028 ($110,000 stipend)
• Voqal Partners Fellowship 2027 ($30,000 award)
• Chevening British Library Coptic Collections Fellowship 2027 (Funded)
• Neukom Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027-2028 ($70,000 stipend)
• Fung Global Fellows Program at Princeton Institute for International and Regional Studies (PIIRS) 2027-2028
• Mycoskie – UC Berkeley Psychedelic Documentary Fellowship 2026
• Johns Hopkins Bloomberg Fellows Program 2026/2027
• ICGEB South African Women in Biotechnology Programme PhD Fellowship 2027 (Funded)
• EPFL AI Center and Swiss AI Initiative Postdoctoral Fellowships 2026-2027
• Southeast Asia Research Group (SEAREG) Postdoctoral Fellowship Program 2027 (Funded)
• Brooke Owens Fellowship – Class of 2027
• FENS/IBRO-PERC Exchange Fellowships Program 2026

What the Opportunities Offer

These scholarships and fellowships provide significant benefits to successful applicants, aiming to support their academic and professional growth. Many offer full financial coverage, removing barriers to advanced education.

• Full Funding: Many programs cover tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs.
• Stipends: A monthly stipend is often provided to cover personal expenses.
• Research Support: Access to research facilities, resources, and funding for research projects is common.
• Networking Opportunities: Fellows and scholars gain access to a global network of peers, mentors, and industry leaders.
• Professional Development: Many programs include leadership training, workshops, and career development support.
• International Experience: Studying or researching abroad provides invaluable global exposure and cultural understanding.
• Qualification: Successful completion often leads to a Master’s or PhD degree, or a recognized fellowship certificate.

Programme Duration and Location

The duration and location of these opportunities vary widely. Some programs are for a specific academic year, while others extend for multiple years, such as PhD studies.

The locations are global, with opportunities available in countries across Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and Australia. Specific details regarding program duration and location are available for each individual scholarship or fellowship listed. Applicants should carefully review the details for each opportunity to understand the specific timeframe and geographical placement.

Minimum Requirements

While specific requirements differ for each opportunity, common criteria include:

• Academic Excellence: A strong undergraduate record is typically required for Master’s programs, and a Master’s degree for PhD programs.
• Citizenship/Residency: Some scholarships are specific to certain nationalities or regions.
• Research Proposal: For PhD fellowships, a well-defined research proposal is usually necessary.
• English Proficiency: Most international programs require proof of English language proficiency.
• Leadership Potential: Many scholarships look for evidence of leadership skills and community involvement.
• Career Goals: Applicants often need to demonstrate how the program aligns with their future career aspirations.

Competencies Required

Successful applicants often demonstrate a range of competencies that make them suitable for rigorous academic and research environments:

• Strong Analytical Skills: The ability to critically evaluate information and solve complex problems.
• Research Aptitude: A demonstrated interest and capability in conducting independent research.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities are essential for academic work and presentations.
• Self-Motivation and Discipline: The capacity to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Adaptability: Willingness to adapt to new environments and academic challenges.
• Interpersonal Skills: The ability to collaborate effectively with peers, mentors, and faculty.

Who Should Apply?

These Master’s and PhD scholarships and fellowships are ideal for ambitious students and early-career researchers who are passionate about advancing their knowledge and contributing to their fields. They are particularly suited for individuals seeking financial support to pursue postgraduate studies at world-class institutions.

The opportunities are open to graduates with strong academic backgrounds who wish to specialize in areas such as science, technology, humanities, social sciences, public health, and international affairs. If you are looking to gain international experience, develop advanced research skills, and build a strong academic or professional network, these programs offer a valuable pathway.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare a comprehensive set of documents, which typically include:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume
• Certified copy of identification (ID or Passport)
• Certified copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Academic transcripts for previous degrees
• A detailed research proposal (for PhD applications)
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees
• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores)
• A personal statement or motivation letter outlining academic and career goals
• Any specific forms or essays required by the application portal

It is crucial to check the specific requirements for each opportunity, as document needs can vary significantly.

How to Apply

The application process for these opportunities varies. Most require an online application submitted through the respective institution’s portal or the scholarship provider’s website.

Applicants should:

• Carefully review the eligibility criteria and requirements for each specific scholarship or fellowship.
• Prepare all necessary documents in advance, ensuring they are certified where required.
• Write a compelling personal statement and research proposal if applicable.
• Request letters of recommendation early to allow referees sufficient time.
• Complete the online application form accurately and thoroughly.
• Submit the application before the stated closing date.

For specific application links, applicants must refer to the original source of each opportunity.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will typically be contacted for further assessment or interviews.
• Late applications are generally not considered.
• Ensure all submitted documents are accurate and meet the specified requirements.
• Applicants should verify the closing date for each opportunity and apply well in advance.
• Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection, as competition is often high.

Closing Date

The closing dates for these opportunities vary, with many falling in October 2026. Some deadlines extend into November and December 2026, or even January 2027.

For example, the Maria Rosario Lazzati Niada Scholarship has a deadline of October 26, while the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme closes on December 1. The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholarship at the University of Toronto also has a deadline of October 1. Applicants are strongly advised to check the specific closing date for each program they are interested in.

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