Are you a passionate researcher from a low- or middle-income country seeking to advance your work in multiple sclerosis? The McDonald Fellowships for International Students 2026 offer a rare chance to gain advanced research experience at top international institutions.
Supported by the MS International Federation (MSIF), this fellowship enables early-career scientists to collaborate on groundbreaking research projects in the field of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and return home equipped to improve MS care in their communities.
McDonald Fellowships 2026
This two-year fellowship is designed for postgraduate researchers who aim to build a career in MS research or clinical practice. Offered annually by MSIF in partnership with ECTRIMS and FranceSEP, the McDonald Fellowships are fully funded, meaning that recipients receive generous support to cover their salary, research expenses, and travel.
The program is open to applicants from low- and middle-income countries (as defined by the World Bank), encouraging international knowledge exchange and fostering leadership in MS care globally. Whether used to complete a research project abroad or as part of a PhD, the fellowship is a springboard for impactful careers in MS research.
McDonald Fellowships 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Countries | Worldwide (Institution outside the applicant’s home country) |
| Study Destination | The Host Institution selected by the applicant |
| Scholarship Type | Postgraduate Research Fellowship |
| Funded By | MSIF, ECTRIMS, FranceSEP |
| Eligible Applicants | Early-career researchers from low- and middle-income countries |
| Fellowship Value | Fully Funded (€55,000 annually, travel, research costs) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Not required |
| Application Deadline | December 1, 2025 |
| Duration | 2 Years |
| Study Mode | Full-Time Research |
What Is the McDonald Fellowship All About?
Named in honor of Professor Ian McDonald, a pioneer in multiple sclerosis research, the McDonald Fellowship aims to reduce global disparities in MS research and treatment. The fellowship empowers promising researchers by giving them access to world-class facilities, expert mentors, and collaborative networks.
In doing so, MSIF and its partners aim to build long-term global capacity for MS research, especially in countries where resources and training opportunities are limited. The fellowship provides funding, mentorship, and a platform for fellows to become leaders in MS science and care.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be eligible for the McDonald Fellowships 2026, candidates must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship: Must be a national of a low- or middle-income country as defined by the World Bank.
- Academic Background: Must hold a postgraduate qualification at minimum, a Master’s degree in a relevant field (PhD or MD preferred).
- Focus Area: Research must be directly related to multiple sclerosis.
- Current Status: Applicants must fall under one of the following categories:
- Working or studying in their home (eligible) country.
- Studying or working abroad on a project that began within the last six months.
- Currently or previously supported by an MSIF Du Pré Grant.
- Commitment to Return: Must commit to returning to their home country after the fellowship to contribute to local MS research or patient care.
- PhD Applicants: The fellowship may be used to co-fund a PhD if the applicant is already accepted into a program.
Fellowship Benefits
The McDonald Fellowship is fully funded and covers the following:
- Annual Fellowship Grant: €55,000 paid to the host institution to cover the fellow’s salary and research-related costs.
- Travel Allowance: Includes international relocation and costs associated with research-related travel.
- Research Infrastructure: Access to advanced facilities, experienced mentors, and global MS research networks.
- Academic Growth: Opportunity to publish research, present at conferences, and gain clinical or laboratory experience.
- PhD Support: May be used to partially fund a PhD at the host institution.
This extensive support ensures that fellows can focus entirely on professional development and research output without financial constraints.
Partner Organizations
Two major organizations partner with MSIF to offer specific fellowships:
- ECTRIMS (European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis) – Offers joint McDonald-ECTRIMS Fellowships.
- FranceSEP (France Sclérose En Plaques) – Supports the MSIF-FranceSEP McDonald Fellowships.
These partners provide additional resources and extend the reach of the program across Europe and beyond.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Completed online application form (available from July 1, 2025)
- CV or resume
- Project proposal with a clear objective and methodology (500-word lay summary included)
- Host supervisor’s statement and agreement
- Three reference letters (sent directly to research@msif.org)
- Copies of academic certificates and transcripts
- Passport copy for identity verification
All documents must be submitted in English. Incomplete applications or missing references will not be considered.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here is how to apply for the McDonald Fellowships 2026:
- Identify a Host Institution
Choose a recognized research or clinical institution outside your home country. Reach out to potential supervisors with shared research interests in MS. - Develop a Research Project
Collaborate with your host supervisor to design a focused and feasible research project in MS. - Apply Online
Starting July 1, 2025, access and fill out the online application form available on the official MSIF website. - Host Statement Submission
Once the application is submitted, the host supervisor will receive a link to provide their supporting statement. - Collect Reference Letters
Ask three referees to email their letters directly to MSIF with the email address displayed above before the deadline. - Submit All Materials
Double-check your application for accuracy and completeness. Ensure all documents are submitted before the December 1, 2025, deadline. - Wait for Results
Applications will be reviewed by a panel of MS scientists and individuals affected by MS. Results are communicated after the review process.
Why Apply for the McDonald Fellowship?
- Global Recognition: Sponsored by leading MS organizations, this fellowship is globally respected.
- Mentorship: Work under internationally recognized experts in the MS field.
- Impact-Oriented: Fellows are empowered to bring knowledge back to communities in need.
- Comprehensive Funding: Covers everything from salary to travel.
- Research Legacy: Many past fellows have gone on to lead MS research programs in their countries.
The McDonald Fellowships 2026 are more than just a funding opportunity; they are a platform for global collaboration and a stepping stone to becoming a leader in MS research.
To apply or learn more, visit:
https://www.msif.org/research/awards-grants-and-fellowships/mcdonald-fellowships/
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the McDonald Fellowships 2026?
The program is open to early-career researchers from low- or middle-income countries working on MS-related research or care.
Can the fellowship be used to fund a PhD?
Yes. If you are accepted into a PhD program, the fellowship can partially support your studies.
Must I already have a host institution?
Yes. You must identify a host and have a project agreed upon before applying.
Are English proficiency test scores required?
No standardized test scores are required, but all applications must be in English.
Can past Du Pré Grant recipients apply?
Yes. Previous Du Pré Grant holders are eligible to apply for the McDonald Fellowship.
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