Fully Funded PhDs in Europe: How the System Works

In much of Europe, PhD funding works differently than in the US. Doctoral candidates are often employed by the university with a salary, rather than paying tuition and receiving a stipend. Positions like those at the University of Copenhagen or Aalto University are advertised like jobs, with contracts of 3 to 4 years. That means you apply to specific projects rather than a general programme. Watch for rolling deadlines. Positions open throughout the year and close when filled.