Austrian Fundation for Studies and Research PRO SCIENTA - PRO SCIENTA - Österreichisches Studienförderungswerk

What PRO SCIENTIA gives you

You will receive an annual grant of education budget of about 1,000 EUR for one year. You may spend this on specialist books, conference fees, professional development, art and culture, and learning materials. Of this amount, 200 EUR must be spent on attending PRO SCIENTIA events. In addition to the financial grant, you will take part in a support programme based on personal interaction. It comprises between 5 and 7 evening events per semester in your university town, as well as a one-week summer academy every September covering various topics. Participation in the summer academy is free of charge for you. You will also gain access to a network of over 1,750 former participants. PRO SCIENTIA is an Austrian foundation that has been in existence since 1966. It supports high-achieving students, early-career researchers and artists from all disciplines.

Who can apply

• Degree level: You have obtained a Bachelor’s degree or are currently in at least the 5th semester of a diploma programme (a longer, standardised course of study).
• Where you study: You are enrolled at an Austrian university. There are active groups in Graz, Innsbruck, Leoben, Linz, Salzburg and Vienna.
• Field of study: Every subject, including the arts.
• Age: For first-time applications, the deadline is 30 on 31 December of the year in which you submit your application. Exceptions may be made for valid reasons.
• Grades: Your academic performance is above average.
• Motivation: You are aiming for a career in the natural sciences or the humanities. You are interested in exploring social and philosophical issues beyond your own field of study.
• Openness: Your personal religious beliefs are irrelevant, but you must be prepared to engage in respectful dialogue across a range of topics and world views.

How to apply

Applications for the next cycle must be submitted via the online portal by 10 December. You will need two references. One of these must be a personal reference from a trusted individual or a university chaplain, following a mandatory interview. The other is an academic reference from a member of teaching staff nominated by you. A committee of university professors will then make the final decision. They will assess your professional competence and your interest in issues that extend beyond your own field of specialisation.

How realistic are your chances?

This award recognises not only outstanding academic achievement but also a genuine willingness to look beyond one’s own field of study. Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate genuine interdisciplinary curiosity and not merely good grades. Due to the requirements regarding the stage of study, the age limit and the need to be studying at an Austrian higher education institution, the pool of applicants is smaller than for open scholarships. If you clearly meet these criteria and can present a convincing, interdisciplinary proposal, your chances are good.