Slovakia's National Scholarship Programme (SAIA): for students, PhD candidates and researchers
Slovakia's National Scholarship Programme: short-term scholarships via SAIA for international students, PhD candidates and researchers, conditions, host university letter and application periods.
Short answer: Slovakia's National Scholarship Programme is administered by SAIA and gives international students, PhD candidates, teachers and researchers short-term (usually one or two semesters) study and research scholarships at Slovak universities. It is not a full-degree scholarship — it is exchange- and research-oriented.
Who is it for?
- Master's students enrolled at a university in their home country (to spend a semester in Slovakia).
- PhD candidates (for a research stay).
- University teachers, researchers and artists.
Eligibility conditions are announced each application round; check the official website.
What does it cover?
- A monthly allowance (for living and food).
- A travel grant in some categories.
- Tuition usually does not apply under this programme.
What is needed to apply?
- An acceptance or invitation letter from a Slovak university (host professor/faculty).
- A study or research plan.
- Recommendation letters and a CV.
- Language skills (English or Slovak, depending on the programme).
Application periods
The programme usually has two application rounds a year (for spring and autumn semesters). Check exact dates on SAIA's official website. For other programmes: scholarship deadlines 2027.
If you want a full degree
This scholarship is not for a full bachelor's or master's. For a full degree in Slovakia, look at Slovak-taught public universities and fee-paying English-taught programmes. See: studying in Slovakia 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Can bachelor's students apply?
The programme is mainly for master's, PhD and researchers; check the conditions for bachelor's students.
How is it different from Erasmus+?
Erasmus+ works through inter-university agreements, while SAIA requires an individual application. See: Erasmus+ exchange.
Note: conditions, amounts and dates may change. Check SAIA's official website.
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