Am I eligible to apply?
You must hold, or expect to soon receive, a university degree that qualifies you for a PhD at the University of Basel (an MSc or equivalent). In exceptional cases, outstanding candidates with a 4-year Bachelor's degree (typically from outside the Bologna System) may also apply, but would need to complete a Master's program at the University of Basel first; admission to the fellowship does not guarantee admission to the MSc program.

I only have a 3-year BSc — can I apply directly for the PhD?
Generally no. A 3-year BSc alone does not qualify you for direct PhD admission. You would first need to complete an MSc (either at the University of Basel or elsewhere), unless you fall under the 4-year Bachelor's exception above.

I have an MSc with honours from the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, USA, or Canada, do I still need to do a Master's?
No. Candidates with an MSc with honours (as a first degree) from these countries can be eligible to pursue the PhD directly, subject to examination and confirmation of your documents by the Doctoral Committee of the University of Basel.

Can I apply if I'm already enrolled as a PhD student or under a PhD contract at the University of Basel?
No. To be eligible for a fellowship, you must not be enrolled as a PhD student, nor have signed a PhD working contract, at the University of Basel as of the decision date of that call.

I don't have my diploma yet (or I'm still finishing my Master's) — can I still apply?
Yes. You can submit your application before receiving your diploma. In this case, please provide an explanation in the section where you upload your files and explain your situation.

How do I calculate/convert my final grade for the application?
Use the University of Basel's grade conversion tool: Conversion and calculation of final grade.

How many reference letters do I need, and when are they due?
Two reference letters are required, more are possible. They should reach us no later than one week after the closing date of the relevant call (see the "Important dates" table for exact dates).

What documents do I need besides the diploma and reference letters?
Transcript of records (BSc + MSc) , CV. 

Do I need a specific English or German language certificate?
The studies are fully in English, so we recommend you have a good level of English. 

What happens after I submit my application?
If your application is complete with all required documents, it will be evaluated by Biozentrum group leaders. Based on their feedback, the Program Committee shortlists 20–30 candidates, who are invited to the Biozentrum for an interview week.

What does the interview week involve?
You'll give a 10-minute research presentation followed by a 20-minute Q&A with the Program Committee and other interested group leaders. You'll also have individual meetings with 8–10 group leaders of your choice, be paired with a chaperone (a current PhD Fellow) who guides you through the week, and take part in two dinners with group leaders, an informal meeting with the PhD Club, and a cultural visit to Basel. Travel and accommodation for the interview week are covered by the Fellowship Program.

Do I have to be on site for the interviews?
Yes, presence during the interview week is obligatory.

How do I choose which group leaders to meet?
As part of the interview week preparation, you'll be asked to indicate 8–10 group leaders you'd like to meet. Browse the full list of PIs that are available in the application form.

When would I start my PhD if accepted?
If you're offered a fellowship, you can start your PhD within six months of the offer. Specific rotation/thesis start windows are given for each call (see the "Important dates" table).

Can I apply more than once if I'm unsuccessful?
Yes. 

For additional questions please send an email to phd-fellowships-biozentrumunibasch