Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships in Italy

Overview of Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships

The FutureData4EU initiative encompasses the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships, collaborating with prominent Italian universities. These include the University of Bologna, University of Ferrara, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, University of Parma, Politecnico di Milano (Piacenza Campus), and Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore (Piacenza Campus).

This initiative aims to cultivate the next wave of professionals in Big Data by providing research opportunities that span multiple disciplines, fostering skill enhancement. Focusing strongly on sustainability and innovation, the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships within the FutureData4EU initiative present an outstanding chance for researchers who wish to create a significant impact in their fields.

Benefits of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships

Selected fellows for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships enjoy a wide range of financial and academic support. The benefits consist of:

• Monthly Payment: Approximately €2,270 per month for a period of three years.
• Tuition Coverage: Complete exemption from tuition fees.
• Research Support: Resources and funding available to assist in research endeavors.
• Training Opportunities: Access to advanced training for research and skill development.
• Global Collaboration: Chances to work with distinguished researchers and organizations across Europe.

Eligibility Requirements for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships

To be eligible for the Marie SkłodowskaCurie Fellowships, applicants must meet certain standards:

• Educational Background: Hold a secondcycle academic degree (such as a twoyear master’s degree) recognized as equivalent for entering PhD programs in the respective country.
• Mobility Condition: Applicants should not have resided or carried out their main activities (work or studies) in Italy for more than a year in the three years before the application deadline (meaning from March 10, 2022, to March 10, 2025).
• English Skills: Demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English, as required by the hosting institution.

Process for Application

Applying for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships involves several steps. Here is a helpful guide:

Step 1: Identify Research Areas and Host Institutions

• Review the list of available PhD positions and research areas in the official program call document.
• Select the research discipline and host university that align with your educational background and research interests.

Step 2: Compile Application Documents

• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Use the provided template to outline your educational and work experience.
• Research Proposal: Develop a project proposal for your research following the given template, detailing your goals, methods, and expected outcomes.
• Academic Records and Certificates: Provide official documentation of your academic qualifications.
• Proof of English Proficiency: If required by the host institution, include valid English language test scores.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

• Access the online application portal on the program’s official website.
• Fill in the application form carefully, making sure all required sections are completed correctly.
• Upload all necessary documents, such as your CV, research proposal, academic records, and English proficiency proof.
• Ensure to submit your application by the deadline: March 10, 2025, at 2:00 PM CEST.

Step 4: Selection Process

• The applications will undergo a review process that assesses qualifications, the research proposal, and includes oral evaluations.
• Candidates who make it to the shortlist may be invited for interviews or oral evaluations as a part of the selection process.

Step 5: Results Notification

• Candidates who are successful will receive a formal notification from the program’s hosting institution.
• Once they are accepted, applicants will initiate their enrollment at the university of their choice.

English Language Criteria

To be eligible for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships, applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in English. The main language requirements include the following:

• IELTS Academic: An overall score of at least 6. 5, with no score below 6. 0 for any section.
• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 90 or above.
• PTE Academic: A score of no less than 62.
• Cambridge English (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency): A score of B or higher.
• Duolingo English Test: A minimum score of 110 accepted by some universities.
• Exemptions:
  You may not need to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores if:
• You hold a degree (Bachelor’s or Master’s) taught completely in English.
• Your first language is English and you are from countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, or other nations where English is the primary language.
• Your host university recognizes an official statement from your previous institution confirming that the degree was taught in English.

Reasons to Apply for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships

Consider these compelling reasons to apply for the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships:

• Prestigious Fellowship: Recognized by the European Union and leading universities in Italy.
• Financial Support: Funding that takes care of living costs, tuition fees, and research expenses.
• Interdisciplinary Research: Opportunities to participate in cuttingedge research in areas like big data and artificial intelligence.
• International Partnerships: Collaborate with top researchers and institutions across Europe.
• Career Advancement: Enhance your career prospects with a doctorate from a highly regarded institution.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of securing the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships, remember these tips:

• Highlight Your Academic Achievements: Show off your academic success through transcripts, awards, and recommendation letters.
• Craft a Solid Research Proposal: Clearly outline your research objectives, methods, and expected outcomes.
• Secure Strong Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who can validate your academic talents and research skills.
• Meet Deadlines: Submit your application early to avoid any lastminute issues.

The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowships through the FutureData4EU Program offer a special opportunity for aspiring researchers to access fully funded PhD positions in Italy. With substantial financial support, interdisciplinary research experiences, and global exposure, this program can significantly influence your career.

If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply. Start preparing your application today and take that first step toward a promising future in research and development!

Find out more about other Scholarships

For more information, please check the official FutureData4EU Program webpage. .