Are you passionate about scientific research and dreaming of pursuing a fully funded PhD in Europe? The DARA Fellowship Program 2025-26 in Denmark could be your gateway to a thriving research career. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about this prestigious fellowship, optimized with top keywords to help you discover and succeed with your application.
Basic Information about the DARA Fellowship Program
The Danish Advanced Research Academy (DARA) Fellowship Program offers fully funded PhD opportunities for outstanding international students in Denmark. The fellowship aims to support transformative, high-impact research across key science and technology fields.
- Fellowship Name: DARA Fellowship Program 2025-26
- Host Country: Denmark
- Host Institution: Danish Advanced Research Academy (DARA)
- Application Deadline: August 29, 2025 (2:00 PM CEST)
- Earliest Start Date: February 1, 2026
- Latest Start Date: June 15, 2026
University/Institution Details
- Organizing Body: Danish Advanced Research Academy (DARA)
- Program Location: Partner research institutions across Denmark, including opportunities in the Faroe Islands and Greenland
- Type of Degree: PhD (aligned with Denmark’s 5+3 or 4+4 PhD models)
Study Areas: Available Program Names & Disciplines
The DARA Fellowship covers a broad spectrum of studies within:
- Bioscience & Biomedicine
- Natural Sciences
- Technical Sciences
- Data & Computer Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Medical Sciences
Both mono- and interdisciplinary projects are encouraged, especially those focused on addressing major scientific questions, developing new technologies, or advancing public health and sustainability.
Scholarship Benefits
The DARA Fellowship offers one of the most generous fully funded PhD packages in Denmark:
Note: Figures rounded; actual USD equivalents may vary according to exchange rates in 2025.
Benefits NOT Included
Although comprehensive, DARA does not cover every potential cost. The following are not included in the award:
- Visa application costs and related administrative fees
- Personal and travel insurance outside Denmark
- Relocation and family expenses beyond the provided salary and project supplement
- Unfunded research expenses exceeding the supplement grant
- Conference attendance not approved or outside DARA’s scope
- Additional living costs for dependents
Eligibility Criteria for the DARA Fellowship
To be eligible for this prestigious PhD fellowship in Denmark, applicants must:
- Be eligible for PhD admission under the Danish 5+3 or 4+4 model
- Hold (or expect to hold) the necessary Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees for a Danish PhD program
- Secure a confirmed principal supervisor at a Danish research institution at the associate professor level or higher
- Agree that the main supervisor supervises only one active DARA fellow at a time (co-supervisors permissible)
- Submit a complete application by the deadline; only one application per candidate
- Not already be enrolled in a PhD program or have started a PhD
All nationalities are eligible to apply. There are no age, gender, race, disability, or nationality restrictions.
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following mandatory documents (all in English):
- Summary of Research Proposal (max. 1,500 characters)
- Full Project Description (max. 7,500 characters, excluding references and illustrations)
- List of References
- Up to 3 Illustrations (optional)
- Motivation Letter (max. 3,000 characters)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (max. 5,000 characters)
- Bachelor’s and Master’s Academic Transcripts
- Supervisor Support Letter + supervisor’s CV
- CV of International Mentor (optional)
- Research Environment Description (optional, max. 2,500 characters)
Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to submit a successful DARA Fellowship application:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the PhD admission requirements of a Danish university and the program’s specific guidelines.
- Find a Principal Supervisor: Secure a supervisor at a Danish research institution (incl. Greenland or Faroe Islands) at the associate professor level or above.
- Develop Research Proposal: Prepare a compelling, innovative PhD proposal in one of the eligible fields.
- Prepare Documentation: Gather all required documents and ensure they meet DARA’s specifications.
- Access the Online Portal: Submit your application through the official DARA online application system.
- Complete Submission: Upload all required materials and submit before the deadline (August 29, 2025, 2:00 PM CEST).
- Await Notification: Results will be announced in December 2025.
- Begin Fellowship: If selected, start your PhD between February and June 2026, completing any host university enrollment steps as required.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin your preparations well ahead of the application deadline to secure a supervisor and prep your documents.
- Consult with Supervisors: Ensure your principal (and any co- or international) supervisors align with your research goals and DARA’s scope.
- Focus on Innovation: Proposals that challenge conventional thinking or explore societal/technological impact stand out.
- Polish Your Documentation: Ensure clarity, conciseness, and compliance with character limits. Use professional language.
- Get Feedback: Have your research proposal and motivation letter reviewed by experienced researchers or mentors.
- Be Precise: Ensure every document required is included and formatted correctly. Incomplete applications are not reviewed.
- Highlight Excellence: Emphasize your academic achievements and how your project advances your field or solves societal challenges.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Denmark
Understanding the average cost of living is crucial for planning your stay:
| Expense Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $650–$1,200 |
| Food | $250–$400 |
| Personal Expenses | $130–$250 |
| Transport | $50–$100 |
| Health Insurance | Covered by DARA Fellowship |
| Total* | $1,080–$1,950 |
Your DARA salary (~$3,150/month) comfortably covers average living costs, ensuring financial security throughout your PhD in Denmark.
Why Choose the DARA Fellowship Program? Top 5 Reasons
- Full Financial Support: All tuition, salary, and essential research costs funded for the duration of your PhD.
- World-Class Research Environment: Join top Danish institutions in a vibrant, internationally collaborative network.
- Career-Boosting Mentorship: Get paired with both local and international mentors for exceptional guidance.
- Exclusive Training & Networking: Access unique educational events, workshops, and annual symposiums.
- Global Recognition: DARA is known for fostering high-impact, innovative research—boosting your career and professional network.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the DARA Fellowship
Who can apply?
- Anyone meeting the Danish PhD admission criteria and with a confirmed supervisor at a Danish institution may apply, regardless of nationality or background.
How competitive is the program?
- DARA is highly competitive, seeking outstanding academic records, innovative research plans, and strong supervisor support.
Are Master’s students eligible?
- Yes, as long as they will have completed their degree prior to the start of the PhD and satisfy Danish institutional requirements.
Can I have co-supervisors?
- Yes. Co-supervisors (including international) are permitted, but the principal supervisor must be from a Danish institution and can supervise only one DARA fellow at a time.
Can I apply to multiple research topics?
- Only one DARA application is allowed per candidate per cycle.
When will I hear back about my application?
- Results are announced in December 2025, with the PhD fellowship starting between February–June 2026.
Ready to take your research career to the next level? With its fully funded PhD scholarship, global mentorship, and unparalleled research opportunities, the DARA Fellowship Program 2025-26 should be at the top of your list for international graduate study in Denmark.