Doctoral studies scholarship
The Doctoral (PhD) Scholarship is financial support awarded to full‑time, state‑funded third‑cycle (doctoral) students. It follows national regulations established by the Government of the Republic of Lithuania and supports doctoral students in completing their studies and research.
Intended for students who
Are state‑funded third-cycle (PhD) students.
May also be non‑state‑funded doctoral students, provided that a tripartite funding agreement is signed between the sponsoring institution, the University, and the doctoral student.
Undertake partial studies abroad for up to 12 months (in such cases, the full scholarship is retained).
Scholarship amount and payment procedure
Amount:
- The scholarship amount is determined according to the Procedure for Granting Support for Studies to Doctoral Students, approved by Government Resolution No. 149.
- The amount differs by year of study (as per national regulation), and VU applies these state‑defined rates.
Payment:
- Paid monthly for the entire period of doctoral studies, in accordance with national rules and University procedures.
- Doctoral students studying abroad for up to 12 months continue receiving the full scholarship.
- If the period abroad exceeds 12 months, the scholarship amount is adjusted by the head of the core academic unit.
Additional payments:
- At the end of the calendar year, heads of core academic units may propose additional scholarship payments based on study and research results.
- Such payments are made from accumulated scholarship funds, with approval from the Rector or an authorised Pro-Rector.
Suspension:
- Scholarship payment may be temporarily suspended for up to 5 months if the doctoral student fails to complete part of the study programme during certification.
- Payment is resumed once the doctoral studies committee decides that study results meet the required standards.
Frequently asked questions
Can non‑state‑funded doctoral students receive this scholarship?
Yes—if a tripartite agreement is signed between the University, the doctoral student, and the funding institution.
Will I continue receiving the scholarship if I go abroad?
Yes, if the stay abroad does not exceed 12 months. For longer periods, the amount may be adjusted.
Can I receive additional scholarship payments?
Yes. Additional scholarship or part of it may be granted at year‑end based on academic achievements.
Why can scholarship payments be suspended?
If progress requirements are not met during certification, payments may be paused until results improve.