Ernst Mach Grant for Master’s and PhD Research in Austria 2026/27

Author: Michael | Published: August 25, 2026

Ernst Mach Grants banner for Master’s and PhD research opportunities in Austria.

What The Ernst Mach Grant is About

The Ernst Mach Grants, funded by the Austrian Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and administered by the Austrian Agency for Education and Internationalization (OeAD), supports international master’s and PhD students enrolled at universities outside Austria. The program provides short‑term research opportunities at Austrian universities, applied sciences institutions, and research centers.

Ernst Mach Grants Coverage

Monthly Living Allowance€1,250 per month
Grant Duration1 to 10 months
Tuition ExemptionFull waiver at public Austrian universities
Travel Allowancebetween €250–€1,000 depending on country of origin
Accommodation and InsuranceOeAD assists with housing arrangements and mandatory health insurance

Ernst Mach Grants Entry Conditions

  • Academic Enrollment:
    • Master’s applicants must be enrolled in a recognized program outside Austria.
    • PhD applicants must be registered in a doctoral program at their home institution.
  • Age Limits:
    • Master’s applicants: under 30 years old
    • PhD candidates and postdocs: under 35 years old
  • Language Proficiency: Proof of B2 or C1 level in English or German, depending on the host department’s working language.
  • Prior Studies in Austria: Applicants must not have studied, worked, or conducted research in Austria during the six months before the grant period.

Host Supervisor Requirement

Applicants must secure written consent from an Austrian faculty supervisor before applying.

  • Finding a Host Professor: Search faculty directories at institutions such as the University of Vienna, TU Wien, Graz University of Technology, or the University of Innsbruck. Contact professors whose research aligns with your project. Include your CV, research plan, and publication list in a concise email.
  • Supervisor Confirmation Letter: The host professor must issue an official letter confirming supervision, workstation access, and research support during your stay.

Needed Application Documents

  1. Supervisor acceptance letter
  2. Two recommendation letters from professors at your home university
  3. Official transcripts and degree certificates
  4. Research proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and work plan
  5. Enrollment verification from your home institution
  6. Passport copy
  7. Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or German language certificate)

Application Timeline

  • Application Opens: October 1
  • Deadline: February 1
  • Expert Panel Screening: March–April
  • Selection Announcements: May
  • Earliest Start Date: September 1

Tip: Late submissions are not considered. Apply early to avoid technical delays.

Beginning Your Application Process

  1. Identify Austrian departments that match your research focus.
  2. Contact potential supervisors and secure an official acceptance letter.
  3. Register an account on the Austrian scholarship database (grants.at).
  4. Complete the Ernst Mach Grant application form, select your host institution, and upload all required documents.
  5. Review your entries carefully and submit before February 1.

Check program rules, university contacts, and apply directly on the official grants.at Website.

Explore Auckland Medical Scholarship in New Zealand and University of Sydney Scholarship detailed application steps for more opportunities.

Disclaimer: Grant details, eligibility requirements, and deadlines may change. Applicants should always confirm the latest information directly on the official grants.at portal before applying. Suretripacademia provides independent guidance only and does not guarantee admission or funding outcomes.