Your Ultimate Guide to the Slovakia National Scholarship Programme Spring 2026

The Slovakia National Scholarship Programme (NSP) offers a golden opportunity for international students, PhD candidates, researchers, and artists to experience world-class education and vibrant culture in the heart of Europe. If you’re dreaming of studying abroad without the overwhelming financial burden, this guide is your first step toward making it a reality. We’ll break down everything you need to know—from eligibility and benefits to a step-by-step application process—to help you craft a standout application for the Spring 2026 intake.

Slovakia National Scholarship Programme (NSP)

What Exactly Is the Slovakia National Scholarship Programme?

The Slovakia National Scholarship Programme is a prestigious award designed to support the mobility of international students and academics. It’s not a full-degree scholarship but rather a grant for a temporary stay (typically 1-2 semesters for students or up to 10 months for researchers) at a public, private, or state university in Slovakia.

Administered by SAIA, n. o. (Slovak Academic Information Agency), the NSP aims to foster international cooperation and enrich the Slovak academic environment. It’s an excellent way to gain international experience, conduct research with leading experts, and explore a beautiful country without breaking the bank.

Are You Eligible? Unpacking the Criteria

The NSP has specific eligibility requirements depending on who you are. Let’s break down the main categories of applicants.

For University Students

This category is for students currently enrolled in a Master’s degree program (or equivalent) at a university outside Slovakia.

• You must be a student at a foreign university.
• You must be accepted by a public, private, or state university in Slovakia for a study stay as part of your degree.
• The scholarship covers 1-2 semesters of study.
• Key document: You’ll need an admission/acceptance letter from your chosen Slovak host university.

For PhD Students

If you’re a PhD student abroad, the NSP can fund a research or artistic stay in Slovakia.

• You must be a current PhD student at a foreign university or research organization.
• You need an invitation letter from a Slovak university or research institution to carry out part of your research there.
• The scholarship stay typically lasts from 1 to 10 months.

For University Teachers, Researchers, and Artists

Academics and artists who do not have a permanent employment contract in Slovakia are also welcome to apply.

• You need to be invited by a Slovak institution with a valid certificate of eligibility for research and development (e.g., universities, research institutes).
• Your stay will focus on teaching and/or research/artistic projects.
• The stay duration is usually between 1 and 10 months.

What’s Included? A Look at the Scholarship Benefits

While the NSP is not a “fully funded” scholarship that covers tuition, it provides a generous monthly stipend to cover living costs. The good news? Public universities in Slovakia often do not charge tuition fees for many programs, even for international students.

Here’s a general breakdown of the financial support, based on the latest information from the official NSP website:

• University Student (Master’s level): €620 per month
• PhD Student: €1025.50 per month
• University Teacher/Researcher/Artist (without PhD): €1025.50 per month
• University Teacher/Researcher/Artist (with PhD): €1410 per month

Additionally, the scholarship may provide a travel allowance, which varies based on your home country’s distance from Slovakia.

Application Guide for the Slovakia National Scholarship Programme

Feeling ready to apply? Let’s walk through the process together. In my experience advising students, the key to success is organization and starting early.

Step 1: Secure Your Admission or Invitation Letter

This is the most crucial step and should be your top priority. You cannot apply for the NSP without an official acceptance letter (for students) or an invitation letter (for PhDs and researchers) from a Slovak higher education institution.

• Research: Identify Slovak universities and specific professors or departments that align with your academic or research interests.
• Contact: Reach out to them professionally with a clear proposal of your study or research plan. This can take weeks or even months, so start now!

Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

Once you have your acceptance letter, it’s time to assemble your application package. All documents must be submitted in the format required by the online portal.

Here’s a general checklist:

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Highlight your academic achievements, research experience, and relevant skills.
• Motivation Letter: A compelling one-page letter explaining why you want to study/research in Slovakia and at your chosen institution.
• Detailed Study/Research Programme: Outline what you plan to do during your stay, including dates and specific objectives.
• Two Letters of Recommendation: From university professors who can attest to your academic abilities (for students and PhD students).
• Academic Transcripts and Diploma: Scans of your most recent qualifications.
• Admission/Invitation Letter: The official letter from your Slovak host institution.

Step 3: Master the Online Application

The entire application process for the Slovakia government scholarship is handled online through the official portal at www.scholarships.sk.

• Create an account well before the deadline.
• Fill in all the required personal and academic information carefully.
• Upload all your documents in the specified format (e.g., PDF).
• Double-check everything before hitting the final submit button. The system can be slow near the deadline, so don’t leave it to the last minute!

Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline: October 31, 2025

The deadline for the Spring 2026 semester (starting in February 2026) is October 31, 2025, at 16:00 Central European Time (CET). Mark this date in your calendar with multiple reminders. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances.

Crafting a Winning Application: Tips from the Inside

I’ve seen many successful applicants focus on one thing: creating a cohesive and compelling narrative. Your application isn’t just a collection of documents; it’s a story about your academic journey and future ambitions.

• Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Don’t use a generic template. Connect your personal goals directly to the unique strengths of the Slovak university and the specific professor you want to work with. Show that you’ve done your homework.
• Develop a Realistic Plan: Your proposed study or research plan must be achievable within the scholarship period. Break it down into a clear timeline. This demonstrates foresight and seriousness.
• Show, Don’t Just Tell: Instead of saying you are a “dedicated researcher,” describe a specific project you worked on that proves it. Use concrete examples in your CV and motivation letter.

Your Slovakian Adventure Awaits

Applying for the Slovakia National Scholarship Programme might seem daunting, but it’s an achievable goal with careful planning and preparation. This scholarship is more than just financial aid; it’s a gateway to new knowledge, cross-cultural friendships, and personal growth in one of Europe’s most charming countries.

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FAQs

Is the Slovakia National Scholarship Programme fully funded?

The NSP is a generous grant that covers monthly living expenses and often includes a travel allowance. However, it does not typically cover tuition fees. The good news is that many study programmes at public universities in Slovakia are tuition-free for international students.

Do I need to speak the Slovak language to apply?

Not necessarily. Many Slovak universities offer a wide range of courses and full programmes taught in English. Your admission/invitation letter from the host institution will specify the language of instruction for your stay, which is what the scholarship committee considers.

What are the application deadlines for the NSP?

The programme has two application deadlines each year:

• April 30th for the following academic year (winter semester).
• October 31st for the summer semester of the current academic year.