Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship 2027 | Fully Funded
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About the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF)
The Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) is a fully funded scholarship offered by European Commission / Horizon Europe (MSCA) for study in EU Member States + Horizon Europe Associated Countries. The scholarship supports students pursuing Research Fellowship studies in All disciplines including STEM, Life Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Euratom research. Recipients receive €5,990/month living allowance + €1,000/month mobility allowance + €660/month family allowance (if applicable) + €500/month special needs allowance (if applicable) + research/training costs for a duration of European Fellowships: 12-24 months, Global Fellowships: 12-24 months + 12-month return phase in Europe.
Eligible applicants: All nationalities (worldwide). Academic standing: Excellent research track record, strong publication record.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and align with the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) selection criteria, this represents a life-changing opportunity to study with full financial support. Read the sections below carefully to understand the benefits, eligibility, application process, and deadline before applying.
Scholarship Benefits & What's Covered
Selected recipients of the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) receive a comprehensive funding package. Here's what the scholarship covers:
- Stipend and allowances: €5,990/month living allowance + €1,000/month mobility allowance + €660/month family allowance (if applicable) + €500/month special needs allowance (if applicable) + research/training costs
- Tuition fees: N/A (postdoctoral)
- Accommodation: Included in mobility allowance
- Airfare / travel: Yes (mobility allowance)
- Health insurance: Yes
- Family / dependants: Yes (family allowance for researchers with dependants)
- Program duration: European Fellowships: 12-24 months, Global Fellowships: 12-24 months + 12-month return phase in Europe
- Number of awards per year: 1,600 per year (2026 budget: €399.05 million, 2025 saw record 17,066 applications with 9.6% success rate)
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means recipients receive complete financial coverage throughout their study period, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic and research goals without financial burden.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF), applicants must meet the following requirements. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected, so review these carefully before applying.
Academic requirements
- Minimum degree level: PhD (completed)
- Academic standing: Excellent research track record, strong publication record
- Academic background: PhD completed by application deadline, excellent CV, advanced research capabilities, strong publication track record, maximum 8 years research experience post-PhD
- Fields of study: All disciplines including STEM, Life Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Euratom research
Nationality & residency
- Eligible countries: All nationalities (worldwide)
- Residency: Must not have resided in host country for more than 12 months in last 3 years
Language requirements
- Language of instruction: Varies by host country, English common for research
- Language test: Depends on host institution
- Minimum score: Varies
Other requirements
- Age: No age limit, maximum 8 years of research experience post-PhD (career breaks excluded)
- Gender: Open to all genders
How to Apply for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF)
Applications for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) are submitted through the official channels of European Commission / Horizon Europe (MSCA). Follow these steps to submit a strong application:
Step 1: Verify eligibility. Confirm you meet every requirement listed above, particularly nationality, academic level, and language proficiency. Applications from ineligible candidates are automatically rejected without review.
Step 2: Prepare required documents. You will need to submit: Joint proposal with host organisation (submitted via EU Funding and Tenders Portal), detailed CV, track record, research plan, ethics considerations, host organisation commitment letter. Prepare each document carefully, reviewers typically shortlist based on document quality and completeness.
Step 3: Secure reference letters. No formal references, host institution agreement required. Contact your referees early. References take time to prepare.
Step 4: Submit the application. Complete the application on the official portal before the deadline. The application deadline for this scholarship is September 9, 2026 at 17:00 CEST. The 2026 cycle has closed; the next cycle (2027) is expected to open April 7, 2027 with a deadline of September 8, 2027 at 17:00 CEST (based on annual pattern). Late or incomplete applications are not considered.
Step 5: Await response. Shortlisting typically takes 4–8 weeks after the deadline. Successful candidates are invited to interview or additional assessment. Final decisions are announced 3–6 months after the application deadline.
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) is September 9, 2026 at 17:00 CEST. The 2026 cycle has closed; the next cycle (2027) is expected to open April 7, 2027 with a deadline of September 8, 2027 at 17:00 CEST (based on annual pattern). Application window: April 9, 2026. The 2026 call opened April 9, 2026 and closed September 9, 2026; the 2027 cycle is expected to open April 7, 2027 based on the annual cycle.
We strongly recommend starting your application at least 6–8 weeks before the deadline to allow sufficient time for document preparation, reference letter requests, and revisions to your personal statement. Rushed applications are visibly weaker and reduce your chance of shortlisting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) fully funded?
The scholarship is classified as Fully Funded. This means it covers all or most major costs — see the Benefits section above for a full breakdown.
Who can apply for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF)?
Applicants must be from All nationalities (worldwide). Additionally, applicants must hold PhD (completed). Full eligibility criteria including language, age, and academic requirements are detailed in the Eligibility section above.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for the Marie Curie Postdoctoral Fellowship (MSCA-PF) is September 9, 2026 at 17:00 CEST. The 2026 cycle has closed; the next cycle (2027) is expected to open April 7, 2027 with a deadline of September 8, 2027 at 17:00 CEST (based on annual pattern). Late applications are not accepted, so aim to submit at least 2 weeks in advance.
Is there a bond or return obligation?
Global Fellowships require 12-month return phase in Europe after non-EU placement, no other formal bond.
Where do I apply?
Apply directly on the official portal: Application Link. ScholarshipSpace does not process applications on their behalf.