Program Overview

Within the framework of the International Education Center’s state grant program “Funding Opportunities for Doctoral Studies Abroad (PhD_2025–2026),” Georgian citizens, as well as holders of a neutral identity card and/or neutral travel document, are eligible to receive a state grant to cover living expenses during their doctoral studies abroad, provided they have secured funding for tuition or research at a foreign institution or are exempt from such fees.

Program Objectives

The program aims to:

• - Expand access to doctoral studies abroad for Georgian citizens;
• - Support the training of professionals equipped to meet labor market demands and contribute to the socio-economic development of the country;
• - Promote the integration of graduates into relevant fields and institutions;
• - Support the Center’s alumni in pursuing academic positions within the higher education sector to strengthen its development in the country.

Grant Duration and Conditions

• - The grant may be awarded as full or partial funding, for one academic year.
• - Continued funding is conditional and may be extended annually within the standard duration of the doctoral program (3+1 years), provided the recipient demonstrates high academic performance.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to:

• - Citizens of Georgia (including holders of a neutral identity card and/or neutral travel document).
•  

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• - Hold a Master’s degree, or
• - Be currently enrolled in a Doctoral program at a foreign higher education institution and applying for funding for the upcoming academic year;
• - Demonstrate high academic performance;
• - Have secured funding for tuition or research from the host university, or be officially exempt from such fees;
• - Be seeking support for living expenses during their studies abroad.

Scope of Funding

Funding refers to full or partial reimbursement of living expenses in the respective country during the study period.

Post-Study Obligations

Grantees are required to:

• - Return to Georgia within one month of obtaining their degree and to submit proof of completion;
• - Remain in Georgia and be employed in a relevant field for at least 3 years within 5 years of obtaining their degree.

Deferral options:

• - The right to remain abroad for one year to gain work experience;