IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship 2026 for PhD in Mathematics (Up to $10,000 per Year)

The IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship (BGF) is a prestigious funding program that supports talented students from developing countries to pursue a PhD in mathematical sciences.

The fellowship is offered by the International Mathematical Union with support from the Friends of the IMU (FIMU) and donations from winners of the Breakthrough Prize in Mathematics. The program aims to strengthen mathematics research and education in developing countries.

Fellowship Overview

• Program: IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship (BGF)
• Organization: International Mathematical Union
• Study Level: PhD
• Field: Mathematical Sciences
• Funding Type: Fellowship grant
• Eligible Applicants: Students from developing countries

The fellowship supports students pursuing a doctoral degree in mathematics at universities or research institutions located in developing countries.

Fellowship Benefits

Selected fellows receive financial support to cover major study expenses.

• Funding up to US$10,000 per year
• Support for up to 4 years of PhD study
• Tuition fees
• Travel expenses to the host institution
• Accommodation costs
• Basic living expenses

The funding is renewed annually based on the fellow’s academic progress during the PhD program.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet several requirements to qualify for the fellowship.

• Must be a citizen and resident of a developing country
• Must be enrolled or pre-accepted into a PhD program in mathematical sciences
• The PhD program must be at a recognized university or research institute in a developing country
• Must have a thesis advisor and research project
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and research potential

Applicants should also show strong motivation to pursue careers in mathematics research and teaching.

Important Note About Applications

Students cannot apply directly for the fellowship.

Instead, candidates must be nominated by a professional mathematician who:

• Holds a PhD in mathematics
• Works at a university or research institution
• Supervises master’s or PhD students

This nomination-based process ensures that highly talented candidates are recommended by experienced mathematicians.

Required Documents

Applications must include several documents submitted by the nominator.

• Nomination letter
• Two recommendation letters
• Research proposal
• Student motivation letter and future plans
• Curriculum vitae of the student
• PhD program acceptance letter
• Academic transcripts (BSc and MSc)
• CV of the PhD supervisor

All documents must be submitted in English and in PDF format.

Application Deadline

• Application deadline: 30 May 2026 (23:59 CET)

The fellowship selection process takes place after the deadline, and successful candidates typically begin their funding during the next academic year.

Why This Fellowship Matters

The IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship aims to strengthen mathematics research in developing countries by supporting outstanding students pursuing doctoral studies locally. By investing in talented researchers, the program helps build sustainable mathematical research communities and academic institutions worldwide.

For students passionate about mathematics research, the fellowship provides financial support, mentorship opportunities, and a pathway to contribute to the global mathematics community.