Basic Information about the McDonald Fellowships 2026
The McDonald Fellowships 2026 are awarded by the Multiple Sclerosis International Federation (MSIF) to provide two-year research opportunities for early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries. The program is designed to advance research and patient care in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) by offering international research experience, mentorship, and funding.
Application Deadline:
1 December 2025 (all supporting documents and host statements must be submitted by this date). Applications open on 1 July 2025.
University/Institution Details
The McDonald Fellowships are not tied to a single university. Instead, applicants must identify and secure a research project and host supervisor at a recognized research institution outside their home country. The host institution can be anywhere in the world, provided it offers a suitable environment for MS research.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
- Multiple Sclerosis Research (all aspects, including clinical, basic, and translational research)
- MSIF-ECTRIMS McDonald Fellowship (in partnership with the European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis)
- MSIF-FranceSEP McDonald Fellowship (in partnership with France Sclérose En Plaques)
These programs are open to postgraduate researchers in relevant medical and scientific fields.
Benefits: McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Funding: €55,000 per year (paid to the host institution for fellow salary and project costs)
- Travel Allowance: Covers relocation and research-related travel
- Research Expenses: Funding for project costs and institutional expenses
- Professional Development: Access to mentorship, training, and international research networks
- Global Collaboration: Opportunity to work with leading MS researchers worldwide
Benefits Not Included
- Direct payment to the fellow (funding is channeled through the host institution)
- Family or dependent support (unless specified in the host institution’s policy)
- Health insurance (unless provided by the host institution)
- Tuition fees for degree programs (unless the fellowship is used to part-fund an already-accepted PhD program)
Eligibility Criteria: McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of a low- or middle-income country (as defined by the World Bank)
- Academic Qualification: Must hold at least an MSc, preferably PhD or MD, in a field relevant to MS
- Research Focus: The research project must be focused on Multiple Sclerosis
- Current Situation: Must be working or studying in a low- or middle-income country, or working/studying in another country on a project started within the last six months, or studying in another country on an MSIF Du Pré Grant project
- Commitment: Must intend to return to their home country after the fellowship to contribute to MS research and care
Required Documents: McDonald Fellowships 2026
- Completed online application form
- Agreement with a host supervisor and supporting statement
- Three reference letters (to be sent directly to research@msif.org)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Project proposal and lay summary (500 words)
- Copies of academic qualifications and transcripts
- Passport copy
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Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Identify a Project & Host Institution:
Find a suitable research project and host supervisor at a recognized institution outside your home country. - Agree on Project Proposal:
Collaborate with your host to finalize your project plan. - Complete Application Form:
Fill out the online application form on the official MSIF website (applications open 1 July 2025). - Host Supporting Statement:
After your submission, your host will receive an email to complete the supporting statement. - Request References:
Contact three referees and ensure they send their reference letters to research@msif.org before the deadline. - Review Terms & Conditions:
Read and agree to the Terms and Conditions of the fellowship. - Submit Application:
Ensure all components are submitted before 1 December 2025.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Allow ample time to identify host institutions and prepare your application.
- Build Strong References: Choose referees who know your work and can speak to your potential.
- Write a Compelling Lay Summary: Clearly explain your project and its impact in accessible language.
- Network Strategically: Connect with previous fellowship recipients and MS research professionals for advice and support.
- Showcase Your Story: Use your application to highlight your unique background, passion, and the impact you aim to make.
- Follow Instructions Carefully: Ensure all documents and statements are submitted on time.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
The fellowship provides €55,000 per year (about $59,000 USD at current exchange rates), which is managed by the host institution and used for salary and project costs. Although the exact amount allocated for living expenses is not specified, typical monthly living expenses for international students in most countries are estimated to range from $1,000 to $2,000 USD depending on the city and lifestyle. The fellowship stipend is intended to cover living costs, research expenses, and travel, thereby ensuring a comfortable stay.
Why Choose the McDonald Fellowships 2026?
- Fully Funded Research Opportunity: Comprehensive funding covers salary, research, and travel.
- International Exposure: Work with leading MS researchers and institutions worldwide.
- Professional Development: Access to mentorship, training, and global research networks.
- Impactful Research: Contribute to advancing MS research and patient care in your home country.
- Flexibility: Can be used to part-fund a PhD program if already accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): McDonald Fellowships 2026
Q: Who can apply for the McDonald Fellowships?
A: Early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries with postgraduate qualifications in MS-related fields.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: 1 December 2025.
Q: Can I apply if I am already studying abroad?
A: Yes, if your project started within the last six months or you are on an MSIF Du Pré Grant project.
Q: How is the funding paid?
A: Funding is paid to the host institution, which manages the stipend and project costs.
Q: What happens after the fellowship?
A: Fellows are expected to return to their home country to contribute to MS research and care.
Q: What documents are required?
A: Application form, host supporting statement, three reference letters, CV, project proposal, academic transcripts, and passport copy.