About This Opportunity

The EDUFI Fellowship, administered by the Finnish National Agency for Education (EDUFI), supports doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers from outside the EU/EEA to conduct research stays of 3 to 12 months at Finnish higher education institutions or research institutes. The fellowship is designed to promote international academic mobility and strengthen Finland's research collaborations globally, including with African institutions and researchers.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Doctoral student or holder of a doctoral degree from a country outside the EU/EEA (Ghana qualifies)
  • Must have a confirmed host supervisor or research group at a Finnish university or research institution
  • Research proposal must clearly align with the work of your Finnish host
  • Applications submitted through EDUFI's online portal with supporting documentation from both applicant and host

What You Get / Benefits

  • Monthly stipend of €1,500 for doctoral candidates or €2,100 for postdoctoral researchers
  • The fellowship covers stays of 3 to 12 months in Finland
  • Access to Finland's cutting-edge research institutions, particularly strong in technology, life sciences, education, and design

How to Apply

  • Identify a Finnish university or research institute and secure a supervisor or research group willing to host you
  • Visit oph.fi/en to review the current fellowship guidelines and application form
  • Prepare a detailed research plan, CV, and a formal invitation letter from your Finnish host supervisor
  • Submit your application through EDUFI's online system before the February 1 deadline
  • Results are typically communicated several months after the deadline

    • Tips

    • You must have a confirmed Finnish host before applying — this is a hard requirement, not a suggestion. Start contacting potential Finnish supervisors at least 6 months before the application deadline.
    • Finland is a global leader in education research, clean technology, and digital innovation — these are particularly strong areas to pursue if they align with your doctoral work.
    • The fellowship covers 3–12 months, so plan your research stay duration carefully to maximise what you can accomplish and what you need to demonstrate in your research plan.

    ⏰ Deadline: February 1 (Annual) — confirm the exact date on oph.fi and begin reaching out to Finnish host supervisors at least 6 months in advance.