Applications are now open for the McDonald Fellowships 2026, a fully funded opportunity designed to support international students pursuing advanced research in the field of multiple sclerosis. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — including eligibility criteria, benefits, and a step-by-step explanation of the application process.
The McDonald Fellowships 2026–2027 provide complete financial support for postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) students from low- and middle-income countries. Each fellowship offers a two-year grant valued at approximately £30,000 GBP per year, covering travel and living expenses. In addition, the host institution receives an extra £2,000 GBP per year to support research collaboration.
This prestigious fellowship aims to empower early-career researchers specializing in multiple sclerosis by enabling them to work with established scientists at research institutions outside their home country. After completing the fellowship, recipients are expected to apply their newly gained expertise and professional connections to advance MS research or patient care within their own regions.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s, PhD
- Institution: McDonald
- Study Location: Home country or a neighboring country (depending on travel permissions)
- Focus Area: Multiple Sclerosis research
- Program Duration: Two years
- Application Deadline: June 2026 (Applications expected to open in Summer 2026)
Scholarship Coverage
Recipients of the McDonald Fellowships enjoy the following financial benefits:
- Annual Grant: £30,000 GBP per year to cover living and travel expenses.
- Institutional Support: £2,000 GBP per year awarded to the host institution.
Eligibility Criteria for McDonald Fellowships
To qualify for the McDonald Fellowship, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Language Requirement: English proficiency
- Eligible Countries: Open to students from low- or middle-income countries (as defined by the World Bank)
- Academic Status: Must be a Master’s, PhD, or MD student
- Field of Work: Engaged in research related to multiple sclerosis in their home or another low/middle-income country
- Joint Application: The application must be submitted jointly with the proposed host institution
- Host Institution Location: Should be within the applicant’s home country or a neighboring nation, if travel is possible
- Current Status:
- Working or studying in a low- or middle-income country at the time of nomination, or
- Conducting research abroad that began within six months before nomination, or
- Supported by a grant from the MS International Federation while studying abroad
How to Apply for the McDonald Fellowships
Interested applicants should carefully follow these steps to complete their application:
- Fill out the online application form completely.
- Host Institution: The host supervisor must provide a supporting statement within the same application.
- Referees: Include the names and contact information of three referees, one of whom must be the applicant’s current supervisor or employer.
- Reference Letters: Referees should send their letters directly to research@msif.org before the deadline.
Official Website
For more details about the fellowship program, eligibility, and application forms, visit the official page below:
Official Website