Are you a passionate, driven researcher with a master’s degree, dreaming of making a significant impact in your field? If so, the 2nd Call for PhD Scholarships 2025 at Politecnico di Torino is your golden opportunity to transform those aspirations into reality. As someone who has advised countless budding academics, I’ve seen firsthand how a fully funded PhD can be a game-changer, providing not just financial support but also unparalleled access to cutting-edge research, world-class faculty, and a vibrant international community. This article will guide you through the intricacies of this prestigious scholarship, offering practical advice and encouragement to help you successfully navigate the application process.
Embarking on Your Doctoral Journey at Politecnico di Torino
Politecnico di Torino, a leading technical university in Italy, is renowned for its excellence in engineering, architecture, and design. Pursuing a PhD here means becoming part of a legacy of innovation and contributing to advancements that shape our world. The doctoral programs are designed to equip you with the advanced research skills and deep theoretical knowledge necessary to excel in academia, industry, or research institutions.
2nd Call for PhD Scholarships 2025 at Politecnico di Torino
| Session | Application Opening Date | Application Closing Date | PhD Programmes Start Date |
| Second | October 15, 2025 | November 14, 2025 (2 PM CET) | March 1, 2026 |
| Third (Tentative) | November 18, 2025 | December 6, 2025 | March 1, 2026 |
The 2nd Call for PhD Scholarships 2025 at Politecnico di Torino represents an incredible opportunity for aspiring researchers worldwide. With fully funded positions, a vibrant academic community, and a commitment to groundbreaking research, Politecnico di Torino provides an ideal environment for your doctoral journey. Remember, success in this competitive landscape comes from meticulous preparation, a compelling narrative, and a clear vision for your research. Don’t let this chance pass you by. Start preparing your application now, refine your research proposal, and reach out to your potential recommenders. Your future in innovative research is just an application away!
Politecnico di Torino Official Call for Applications
Understanding the Scholarship and Its Benefits
The Politecnico di Torino PhD scholarships 2025 are a significant investment in your academic future. These are typically fully funded positions, meaning they cover your tuition fees and provide a generous living stipend. For the Academic Year 2025/26, the gross annual amount of a PhD scholarship is approximately €18,854.52. This amount also includes social security contribution charges. Additionally, PhD candidates may receive extra funding for research activities, usually equal to 10% of the total scholarship cost .
Diverse PhD Programmes Available
Politecnico di Torino offers a wide array of PhD programs across various disciplines, including:
- Aerospace Engineering
- Architectural Heritage
- Architecture. History and Project
- Artificial Intelligence
- Bioengineering and Medical-Surgical Sciences
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil and Environmental Engineering
- Computer and Control Engineering
- Design and Technology. People, Environment, Systems
- Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
- Energetics
- Management and Production Engineering
- Materials Science and Technology
- Mathematical Sciences
- Mechanical Engineering
- Physics
Many of these programs also offer fully-funded PhD positions with either your own research topic or a predefined research topic, providing flexibility based on your academic interests and career goals.
Navigating the Application Process
Applying for a PhD scholarship can feel like a marathon, but with a strategic approach, you can significantly enhance your chances. Here’s a breakdown of the critical steps involved:
1. Thoroughly Review the Call for Applications
Your first and most crucial step is to meticulously read the official “Call for Applications” on the Politecnico di Torino website. This document is your definitive guide, detailing specific PhD programs, available positions, eligibility criteria, and mandatory deadlines. It’s updated regularly, so keep an eye on it for any new positions or updates.
2. Meet the Eligibility Criteria
Generally, applicants need to possess a second-level academic degree (equivalent to an Italian Laurea Magistrale), obtained either in Italy or abroad. If you haven’t graduated yet, you can still apply, but your degree must be completed before the enrollment date (e.g., by January 31, 2026, for the March 2026 start).
For international students, a B2 level English language certificate is typically required. While some sources mention that IELTS might not be mandatory, a B2 level certificate is a common requirement across many programs. Always check the specific program’s requirements. You might also need to pay a non-refundable application fee of €30.
3. Prepare Your Application Documents
A strong application package is paramount. Here’s a list of commonly required documents:
- Valid Identification Document (Passport): Essential for international applicants.
- Official Degree Certificate(s): Proof of your academic qualifications.
- Official Transcript of Exams Passed and Grades: Detailing your academic performance.
- GPA Documentation: Including both semester-wise and cumulative GPA, with official information on your university’s grading system.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive overview of your academic, research, and professional experiences.
- Motivation Letter: This is your chance to shine! Articulate why you want to pursue a PhD, your specific research interests, and why Politecnico di Torino is the ideal place for you. Highlight your academic journey, research experience, and relevant skills. In my experience advising students, a common hurdle is not tailoring the motivation letter enough. Make sure to reference specific faculty members whose work aligns with yours and specific labs or resources you’d like to utilize.
- Abstract of Master’s Thesis: A concise summary of your master’s research.
- Statement of Purpose (SoP) on Research Interests: This expands on your motivation letter, outlining your proposed research and how it aligns with the university’s research landscape. For open topic scholarships, you can provide your own research idea [1].
- English Language Certification: As mentioned, typically B2 level.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Usually two to three academic LORs are required. Choose professors or research supervisors who know your work well and can speak to your academic capabilities, research potential, and personal qualities. Provide them with your CV, research proposal, and the scholarship details well in advance [4].
- Diploma Supplement, Declaration of Value, or Statement of Comparability: Issued by the Italian ENIC-NARIC center, this is crucial for qualifications obtained abroad.
4. Submit Your Application Online
All applications are submitted through the Apply@polito platform. Ensure you register, set up your account, and meticulously upload all required documents. Double-check that all fields are correctly filled and documents are attached in the specified format.
5. The Selection Process: Evaluation and Interview
The evaluation committee assesses applicants based on:
- Academic performance (GPA)
- Research background
- Alignment with research topics
- Quality of motivation letter and research proposal
- Recommendation letters
- Language skills
- Publications (if any)
Shortlisted candidates will proceed to an interview. This is a critical stage where your technical skills, subject knowledge, and level of English will be assessed. The interview is often less about rote examination and more about discussing your research ideas and potential contributions [5].
Making Your Application Stand Out
Competition for fully funded PhD programs in Italy is fierce. Here are some actionable tips to distinguish yourself:
- Tailor Everything: Generic applications rarely succeed. Customize your CV, motivation letter, and research proposal to align perfectly with the specific PhD program and the research interests of the faculty at Politecnico di Torino.
- Showcase Your Research Experience: Highlight any previous research projects, publications, conferences, or lab work. Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., “Led a team that reduced data processing time by 20%”).
- Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter: This is your personal story. Why are you the ideal candidate for this program at this university? Express genuine passion and intellectual curiosity. I’ve seen many successful applicants focus on articulating a clear research problem they wish to address and how the resources and faculty at Politecnico di Torino are uniquely suited to support their vision.
Leveraging Social Media for Insights
Before and during your application process, social media can be a valuable resource for insights and updates:
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FAQs
Q1: What is the gross annual amount of a Politecnico di Torino PhD scholarship?
The gross annual amount for a PhD scholarship at Politecnico di Torino for the Academic Year 2025/26 is approximately €18,854.52. This amount includes social security contributions. Additionally, PhD candidates typically receive an extra 10% of their scholarship for research activities.
Q2: Do I need to pay an application fee for the PhD scholarships?
Yes, generally a non-refundable application fee of €30 is required. Always check the specific Call for Applications for the most accurate and up-to-date information, as fees can occasionally change or be waived under specific circumstances.
Q3: Can I apply for a PhD scholarship if I haven’t completed my Master’s degree yet?
Yes, you can apply even if you have not yet completed your second-level academic degree (Master’s or equivalent). However, it is mandatory that you obtain your degree before the specified enrollment date for the PhD program, which for the March 2026 start, is typically by January 31, 2026.
Q4: Is an English language certificate mandatory for international applicants?
Yes, for most PhD programs at Politecnico di Torino, international applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically at a B2 level. While some programs might have specific waivers or different requirements, it’s highly recommended to have a valid B2 English language certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, or an equivalent recognized by the university). Always refer to the specific program’s requirements in the Call for Applications.
