Fully Funded PhD Scholarships in Multidisciplinary Research Fields at Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (CSC-UPM) Universidad Politécnica de Madrid in Spain

The Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM), in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), is offering up to 20 fully funded PhD scholarships for 2026. This prestigious CSC–UPM Cooperative PhD Programme provides outstanding scholars the opportunity to pursue a full-time PhD in Madrid, Spain, across more than 18 research fields including Applied Mathematics, Earth Science, Mechatronics, Sports Science, Materials Engineering, Architecture, Physics, Operations Research, Agricultural Engineering, ICTs, Biomedical Engineering, Transportation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering.

Selected applicants will benefit from a comprehensive funding package: full tuition and research fee waivers for the entire 48-month program, a monthly living stipend, and round-trip international airfare, all sponsored by CSC. Academic supervision is provided by leading UPM faculty, and the program includes support for registration, enrollment, and visa procedures.

Eligibility requirements include holding a Master's degree (or equivalent) qualifying for PhD admission, meeting UPM's general PhD entry requirements, and demonstrating English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL iBT 90, or waiver if prior degree was taught in English). Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a CV, a publication list (optional but encouraged), and a research proposal signed by a UPM supervisor. Securing acceptance from a UPM supervisor is mandatory before applying for the CSC scholarship.

To apply, candidates should first identify and contact a UPM supervisor in their research area to discuss their PhD plan. After preparing the required documents, submit the UPM PhD Scholarship application by the deadline (15 February 2026; 2 February 2026 for Physical Activity and Sport Science). Upon receiving an acceptance letter, apply for the CSC scholarship via the CSC portal. UPM will assist in finding a suitable supervisor if needed.

This program is ideal for those seeking international research careers in technical and scientific fields, with strong institutional support and financial stability throughout the PhD journey.