Are you passionate about mathematics and aiming to pursue a Ph.D. without financial obstacles? The IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026 offers outstanding students from developing countries the chance to earn a fully funded doctoral degree in mathematics.
Sponsored by the International Mathematical Union (IMU) together with The Friends of the IMU, this prestigious fellowship provides financial assistance of up to USD 10,000 per year, covering tuition, travel, accommodation, and living expenses.
This initiative is designed to support highly talented students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and commitment to advancing mathematics in their home countries. With an emphasis on cultivating future researchers and educators, the fellowship is not only a personal opportunity but also a pathway to strengthen mathematical development in developing nations.
IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Institution | International Mathematical Union (IMU) |
| Study Destination | Universities or research institutions in developing countries |
| Scholarship Type | Ph.D. (Mathematics) |
| Funded By | International Mathematical Union & The Friends of the IMU |
| Eligible Applicants | Talented students from developing countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Up to USD 10,000 per year) |
| IELTS/TOEFL Required | Yes (English proficiency required) |
| Application Deadline | May 31, 2026 |
| Number of Awards | Limited |
| Study Mode | Full-Time |
| Program Duration | Up to 4 years |
What Is the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program All About?
The IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026 is a fully funded scholarship dedicated to supporting mathematically gifted students from developing nations. Unlike many scholarships, where students apply directly, this fellowship requires professional mathematicians to nominate deserving candidates.
The aim is to ensure that the brightest students, particularly those who might otherwise lack access to international funding, receive the necessary resources to pursue a Ph.D. in mathematics. The fellowship is valid for up to four years and renewable annually, depending on the student’s academic progress.
The program’s ultimate vision is to strengthen mathematical research in developing regions by training the next generation of leaders in academia and research.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026, nominees must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a resident and citizen of a developing country.
- Must be either accepted into a Ph.D. program or already enrolled in a doctoral program in mathematics at a recognized institution in a developing country.
- Must demonstrate a strong academic record and commitment to pursuing a career in mathematics research or teaching.
- Nominations only: Students cannot apply directly; they must be nominated by professional mathematicians who mentor or supervise them.
- No age limit applies.
- Nominations of women candidates are strongly encouraged.
- Fellowship is renewable annually, provided the candidate shows satisfactory academic progress.
Scholarship Benefits
Selected fellows of the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026 will receive:
- Full coverage of tuition fees.
- Financial support for accommodation expenses.
- Travel allowance to the host institution, if different from the home country.
- Living expenses are based on the cost of living in the host country.
- Renewable funding for up to four years, contingent on academic performance.
This extensive package ensures that students can dedicate themselves fully to their research without financial strain.
Required Documents
Applicants nominated for this fellowship must provide a complete set of documents, including:
- Statement from the nominator.
- Copy of the nominee’s passport.
- Official pre-acceptance letter from the Ph.D. program.
- Budget estimate of expenses.
- CV of the Ph.D. supervisor.
- Detailed research project proposal.
- Two letters of recommendation (not from the nominator).
- Academic transcripts: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees or equivalents.
- Nominee’s CV.
- Motivation letter and study plan from the nominee.
- Signed declarations from the nominator, nominee, and Ph.D. supervisor.
All documents must be submitted in PDF format through the online application portal.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here is a simple guide to the application process:
Step 1: Online Application Form
Access and complete the official application form through the IMU’s website.
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Ensure all required materials (CVs, proposals, recommendations, transcripts, etc.) are compiled and saved as PDF files.
Step 3: Submit Nomination
The nominator, not the student, must submit the application package before the deadline.
Step 4: Review and Selection
The IMU will review applications and announce selected fellows.
Step 5: Fellowship Renewal
Fellows must show yearly progress to renew funding until the program’s completion.
Why Apply for the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program?
- Financial Security: Covers all major academic and living expenses.
- Prestigious Recognition: Endorsed by the IMU, one of the most respected organizations in global mathematics.
- Capacity Building: Promotes the growth of mathematics in developing countries by training future educators and researchers.
- Mentorship Support: Nominations ensure that candidates are guided by professional mathematicians.
- Global Opportunity: Although hosted in developing countries, the fellowship enhances global research exposure and collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who funds the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program 2026?
The program is funded by the International Mathematical Union and the Friends of the IMU.
Can students apply directly?
No, students cannot apply on their own. They must be nominated by a professional mathematician.
How much funding is provided?
The fellowship provides up to USD 10,000 per year, covering tuition, accommodation, travel, and living costs.
What is the program duration?
The fellowship lasts for up to four years, renewable annually based on academic progress.
Is there an age limit?
No, there is no age restriction for nominees.
Can women apply?
Yes, and in fact, the program strongly encourages the nomination of women students.
For more details about the fellowship, visit the official website: https://www.mathunion.org/imu-breakout-graduate-fellowship
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