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• How to Apply for A PhD Abroad – International Study
• Applying to a PhD

So you’ve decided to enrol onto a doctoral degree and study abroad at the same time. This is a great opportunity to develop yourself both personally and academically. However, do you actually go about securing a PhD as an international student? To help answer this for you, we’ve created this guide to explain how to apply for a PhD in foreign universities.

Why Do Your PhD Abroad?​​​​​​​

There are many benefits to studying abroad.

Some PhD students do so as a way to develop a new language, discover more about a different culture, and to meet new people.

Besides personal reasons, undertaking a doctorate degree abroad can also for academic purposes. For example, in some countries, a particular research field may not be very popular and so there may not be many doctorate options available. In these cases, undertaking a PhD abroad will open up many more opportunities. It could also offer greater funding, lower tuition fees, better laboratory equipment and more experienced supervisors. Not only would these factors result in a more enjoyable PhD, but they could also contribute to greater career prospects. For example, you will likely have more opportunities to write publications, attend conferences and collaborate with other researchers. All of these will help you establish yourself as a respectable researcher within your field.

Is It Difficult to Apply to PhDs Abroad?​​​​​​​

It’s not as difficult as you would imagine when it comes to applying to a PhD in a foreign country. Regardless of whether you’re applying to a university within the EU, such as the UK, Finland or Spain, or to universities within the US or Asia, the processes are relatively similar.

The differences in the application process can be categorised into three areas.

• the documents you need to provide,
• the prerequisite tests you need to sit,
• how much you need to communicate with the potential supervisors before applying.

We’ve provided a basic outline of the application processes below. Although this will provide you with a good starting point, we highly recommend you look at the university websites for specific instructions and guidance before applying.

Will I Need a Student Visa?​​​​​​​

This will depend on what country you are applying to. For example:

• In the UK, applicants from outside the EU will need a Visa Tier 4 (Student). This will allow them to undertake a full-time PhD. However, due to UK visa restrictions, international students are unlikely to be able to enrol onto a part-time degree.
• In Germany, most students will not require a student visa but will require a residence permit.
• In the US, applicants will need to hold an F-1 Student Visa.
• In Asia, the requirements differ depending on the specific country. For example, in China, you will require an X1 Student Visa whereas in Singapore you will require a Student Pass.

Because of the significant differences between countries, we highly recommend it is highly that you check the requirements on an individual case-by-case basis. This is best done by checking the government website of the country you wish to apply to.

General Process for Applying to PhDs Abroad​​​​​​​

When applying to a PhD position, most universities regardless of where they’re located will require:

• Online Application – An electronic form to provide your details and attach all supporting documents. You will also need to make any application fees during this process if required.
• Academic Transcripts – Most universities need a scanned copy of your transcripts when applying. You will only have to submit official hard copies once they have accepted your admission.
• CV – This should include details of your previous education, undergraduate degree and any experiences revenant to the field you’re applying to.
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement – A letter which outlines why you’re applying to the PhD and why you believe you’re suitable for the project.
• Letters of Recommendation – this should preferably be provided by your undergraduate degree course tutor or a professor who knows you well.

Language Tests

If your PhD is to be undertaken in English and English isn’t your first language, most universities will require you to sit an English language proficiency test. The most common tests, in order of popularity, are:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing Systems)
• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language)
• PTE (Pearson Test of English)

The minimum test scores will change from university to university. They will also vary depending on the research field. For example, research projects related to English Literature or Law will require relatively high scores whilst projects in Science and Engineering will require slightly lower scores. To provide an example, the University of Leicester in the UK requires a minimum overall IELTS score of 7 for Law PhDs but has a lower overall score requirement of 6 for Engineering PhDs.

Finding a PhD has never been this easy – search for a PhD by keyword, location or academic area of interest.

How to Apply for PhDs in EU Countries​​​​​​​

For UK universities, there are generally two ways of applying. You can either apply directly through the university’s website or you can make an application through the UCAS Postgraduate system .

In Spain, Italy and Germany, before applying to a PhD you will first need to pass a pre-application process. This involves checking that your qualifications meet their eligibility requirements. Before undergoing this pre-screening process, it would be beneficial to first speak to your government. They may offer advice on how your countries qualification system corresponds to the qualification system in the country hosting the PhD.

Once you’ve made your application, the university will review it and get in contact with you. For most EU institutions, they will invite you for a Skype or telephone interview with them if they believe you may be a suitable candidate.

If you require a student visa to study in an EU country, it’s recommended that you submit your application at least 3-4 months before the proposed PhD start date.

How to Apply for PhDs in USA

In addition to the English language exams mentioned previously, international applicants will also need to sit additional exams to be eligible for PhDs in the USA. These are the GRE General Exam and GRE Subject Exam(s). The GRE Subject Exam(s) you will need to undertake will be specific to your field and will be specified by the university as part of their edibility requirements.

Securing a PhD position in the United States is considered relatively difficult compared to other countries. As a result, it is commonly recommended that you apply to at least 9 different universities to increase your chances of securing a position.

How to Apply for PhDs in Asia

As Asia covers a wide range of countries such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, UAE and India, their application processes naturally differ from one another. Therefore, check the specific application process for each university you’re interested to get the most accurate information.

To summarise:

• China – uses two centralised application services, CUAC and CUCAS. Both these services help international students find and apply to a PhD project in China. Students can also apply directly to a University if they wish to.
• Singapore – rather than applying to a specific research project, you will have to apply to a faculty or department within a University. Only once you have been accepted into the university department will their research projects become available to you. Like US universities, most universities in Singapore will have required you to have sat a GRE Exams prior to applying to them.
• UAE – you must apply directly to your chosen university. To be eligible for a PhD in UAE, you must hold a Master’s degree and it must be from a university recognised by their government. You will also be required to undertake GRE Exams before making your application.

How to Apply for PhDs in Australia

To apply to a PhD in Australia, you will first be expected to find and email a potential supervisor. If you’re an international student and you make an application directly to the university without doing this first, it’s highly likely that you won’t be considered for the position.

Upon discussing the project with the supervisor, they will instruct you to put in a formal application. This formal application will require the information previously outlined above.

Similar to EU institutions, if an Australian university believes you’re a strong candidate, they will likely invite you to a Skype or telephone interview.

Unlike EU universities, PhDs in Australian universities can start at any time of the year. Therefore, unless a specific funding requirement is attached to the project, there are usually no deadlines associated with applying to their PhDs. However, try to apply 3 to 4 months before you intend to start your studies.

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Your 8-Step Roadmap on Applying for a PhD

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PhD aspirants handbook

Imagine this: you confidently cruise through the academic world, armed with a top-notch application, knowing you're about to start a journey where learning is super cool. Whether you just love to learn new things or dream of changing the world, our guide is your go-to plan for how to apply for a PhD! We're here to make your application journey super fun, from finding the right supervisors to discovering cool funding options. Ready for an awesome ride on how to apply for a PhD?

8 Easy Steps on How to Apply for a PhD

Discover the easy steps to follow your dream of getting a PhD. From selecting the right PhD program to crafting a compelling research proposal, our guide ensures that every facet of your Ph.D. application is finely tuned for success. Now, without any further ado, let's jump into this journey together with our 8-step roadmap on how to apply for a PhD program!

Step 1: Choosing Your Research Area

The first step on how to apply for a PhD abroad is to pick the area of research you're interested in. Here are some tips which you will encounter when choosing your research area:

1. Explore Subjects

One thing to remember at the time of how to apply for a PhD is that many PhDs cover a diverse range of topics that vary from Humanities and Arts to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics). Each individual subject has its own set of research areas built into it.

2. Previous Qualifications

While having a relevant degree in the chosen field is beneficial for many PhD programs, it's not strictly mandatory. For instance, if you're pursuing a Master's in Political Science, you can still prefer applying for a PhD in Cultural Studies. The crucial factor is that your research interests should resonate with your previous experience. This alignment is essential as your PhD application undergoes scrutiny based on your past academic and professional background.

3. Think About Departments

At the time of selecting your best options, consider which department you would like to join to pursue your career in. There might be many choices in which you might get interested, such as History, Biology, Arts or Literature. Take enough time to research it and choose the option which suits your career path. Remember, choosing your research area is like picking the right puzzle piece—it should fit your passion and curiosity while applying for a PhD.

Step 2: Deciding Which Type of PhD You Want

Whenever you decide on applying for a PhD you want, you need to understand there are two main types of PhDs, i.e., predesigned projects and self-proposed projects. Now, let's break down these two main types of PhD programs in simple terms:

1. Predesigned Projects

Predesigned projects are like ready-made puzzles waiting for you to solve. These projects are already available at the time of applying for a PhD. Here's what you need to know about the different forms of predesigned projects. These projects come in three flavors:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) : These programs focus on specific research areas and often involve collaboration with industry partners.
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) : DTPs offer interdisciplinary training and research opportunities.
• iCASE : These projects provide the most industry experience, including internships.

You don’t need to worry about funding for predesigned projects, as these are usually fully funded for four years. Some predesigned projects even include an integrated Master's degree during the first year. The main advantage of applying for a PhD in a predesigned project is that you can skip the planning phase and directly jump straight into the research phase. Remember, competition can be fierce as multiple students apply for the same advertised PhD opportunity.

2. Self-Proposed Projects

Students who do not wish to pursue a predesigned project can opt for a self-proposed project or their research project for PhD study. This option turns out to be an excellent choice for students who want full control over their work in the research project. Imagine a self-proposed project as you design your adventure! Here's how self-proposed projects work:

• Your Brainchild : You create your research topic and proposal. It's like crafting your unique puzzle piece.
• Control : You have more say in shaping your work and direction as you have full control over the project.

While choosing self-proposed projects is advantageous for students, there's a potential drawback. Not all self-proposed PhD projects come with funding. You might need to find diverse funding options to offset the costs associated with PhD applications. Additionally, students can consider applying for part-time jobs and allocate the earnings towards their studies while applying for a PhD. Keep in mind that a PhD stands as the pinnacle of academic achievement bestowed upon a student, and there are many benefits of getting a PhD in foreign universities.

Step 3: Drafting a Research Proposal

Considering students in both cases, i.e. predesigned project and self-proposed project, you have to draft a research proposal after you complete your period of research. Though this draft will not be considered as your final draft for submission, drafting a research proposal is useful and comes in handy in some situations. Below are some pointers on how to write a PhD research proposal:

1. Title Your Research Question

2. abstract (optional), 3. background & rationale, 4. research aims & objectives, 5. research design and methodology, 6. timeline, find comfortable student accommodations in your dream city.

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Step 4: Contacting Potential Supervisors for a PhD

Once you’ve settled on your PhD project, conducted research, and drafted a research proposal, the next step is to reach out to potential supervisors. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when contacting potential supervisors for a PhD:

1. Research Your Potential Supervisor

Before you reach out to any potential supervisor, familiarise yourself with their research and publications. You need to understand their research interests and areas of interest. This can also be followed by exploring their academic profile on university websites or other platforms.

2. Craft a Formal Email

In most instances, communication occurs through email. It is crucial to ensure that your initial email maintains a professional and well-structured tone. Begin by stating a clear subject line, introducing yourself, conveying your interest in the research topic, expressing your intention to apply for a PhD, and concluding with courtesy.

3. For Predesigned Projects

The project advertisement will include the supervisor's name. Feel free to reach out to the supervisor via email or message to engage in a more detailed discussion about the research.

4. For Self-Proposed Projects

In this scenario, the responsibility lies with you to identify potential supervisors. Begin your search by exploring staff lists on university websites. When seeking a suitable supervisor, cast a wide net, considering both seasoned experts and emerging academics.

Step 5: Checking Entry Requirements

The next crucial step is to check the entry requirements of your selected institution or project you’re interested in. Below are mentioned some entry requirements responsible for different scenarios based on academics:

1. Master’s Degree (Usually)

Most PhD applicants typically hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field. However, some funded studentships may allow Bachelor’s graduates to apply.

2. Integrated Programmes

If you don’t have a Master’s, consider programs that include a year of Master’s level training before starting PhD research.

3. International Applicants

For international students, it's essential to review visa requirements while applying for a PhD. If you plan to study in the UK , you'll need a student route visa. To apply for the student visa, you must meet requirements such as obtaining confirmation of acceptance from a university, providing proof of adequate funds, and satisfying English language criteria. Be aware of any language exams or entry tests necessary for the visa process.

Step 6: Understanding Fees and Funding Options

As you’ve decided on the PhD opportunities you’re interested in and confirmed your eligibility, it’s essential to explore funding options. Here’s what you need to know about the financial aspects of pursuing a PhD:

1. Fully-Funded Studentships (Advertised Projects)

If you’re applying for a PhD in an advertised project, then in most cases, successful candidates receive full funding. Research Councils often provide this funding, but they have specific guidelines on usage and thesis submission deadlines.

2. Self-Proposed Projects and Research Council Funding

If you’re designing your own PhD, you’ll likely apply for Research Council funding. Keep in mind that funding for self-proposed projects is limited, and some applications may be unsuccessful.

3. Other Potential Sources of Funding

Explore various funding options, including those offered by your selected universities, ranging from fee discounts to full studentships. Independent organisations might offer partial or full funding for PhD students whose research aligns with their interests. Additionally, the UK government provides doctoral loans for English and Welsh PhD students, with repayments triggered once your income surpasses a specific threshold. Many scholarships in the UK help students while they pursue their PhD.

Step 7: Application Deadlines

Up until now, you must have understood all the aspects of a PhD study, but the most important thing to consider is to note down the PhD application deadlines for each university. Some universities have different deadlines, especially if you’re applying for a PhD funding. Just aim to submit your application well in advance to account for any challenges that might arise during the paperwork. 

Checklist of Required Documents

Gather the necessary documents based on the university and funding you’re applying for a PhD. If you’re an international student, you may need to show proof of language proficiency, funds, and student visa eligibility. Some of the common documents you need at the time of how to apply for a PhD:

• CV : Highlight your academic and professional background.
• Personal Statement : Explain your motivation and research interests.
• Research Proposal : Outline your research question and approach.
• Referee Details : Contact at least two referees in advance. ‍
• Academic Transcript : Provide your educational history.

Step 8: Submit Your Application

Once you've compiled all necessary documents (CV, personal statement, research proposal, etc.) and arranged them, proceed to submit your application through the university's application portal. Many universities provide an online portal dedicated to PhD applications, allowing you to initiate your application and save your progress for future completion. If you prefer applying for a PhD funding separately, you can do so through research council funding, often integrated into the university's application. For alternative funding sources, refer to the specific application process outlined on the funder's website.

As we wrap up this exhilarating journey through the 8-step roadmap to how to apply for a PhD, take a moment to pat yourself on the back.  You've not only gained insights about applying for a PhD but have also uncovered the secrets to finding the perfect supervisors and securing the funding you need. Remember, applying for a PhD is a significant step, so take your time and prepare thoroughly. Now, go forth, shine bright, and let your journey to PhD greatness begin!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do i start when considering how to apply for a phd, what documents are typically required at the time of applying for a phd, is there an online application portal while applying for a phd program, are there specific language proficiency requirements for international applicants while applying for a phd, what funding options are available for phd students while applying for a phd.

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Doing a PhD in Europe vs. the US

Are you thinking of doing a PhD abroad? There are some considerable differences between European and American PhD programs that you should know about before applying. Read on to determine which program is right for you.

Qualifications

It is often not possible to do a PhD in Europe without first earning a Master’s degree. In the US, many PhD programs accept applicants who only have a Bachelor's degree. Students usually earn a Master’s as part of the PhD program after they have completed a few years of coursework and passed certain exams. This doesn't mean that all doctoral candidates in American PhD programs have entered the program straight from undergrad. Several still choose to do a Master’s first before applying for a PhD. In some programs students who already have a Master's might not be required to take as many courses as students with just a Bachelor’s, but this isn't always the case. 

Time to Degree

European PhD programs are shorter than those in the US. For example, it takes three years to complete a PhD in France, Norway, the UK, and Germany. Across Europe, a three to four year PhD in common. In comparison, six years is the average time to degree in the US with many PhDs in the humanities taking seven or eight years to earn their degree.

Thesis Topic

PhD candidates in Europe must choose their thesis topic and supervisor during the application process. Students apply for specific vacant doctoral projects that are usually tied to a professor’s research. As part of their application, they must create a research proposal for this project. It is also possible (in the UK for example) to apply to a department rather than a specific position, but applicants must still include a research proposal and are advised to contact potential supervisors before applying. In the US, candidates apply to a department’s PhD program, rather than a specific PhD project. While they have to discuss their research interests and identify potential supervisors in their applications, students do not decide on their thesis topic until their second or third year. In fact, many science and engineering programs have students rotate between different labs in their first year before deciding on their supervisor and dissertation project.

Teaching Requirement

PhD candidates occasionally have the opportunity to teach in Europe, although teaching is not a requirement in many countries. In the US, PhD candidates are often required to teach undergraduates, often as teaching assistants for a large lecture class. A teaching assistant leads smaller tutorials for 20-30 students and grades their exams and papers. Most PhD students will TA one class each semester for two to three years. Several American PhD programs also have mandatory pedagogy courses for graduate students.

Many European PhD programs require students to do little to no coursework. Candidates start working on their dissertation projects right away. American PhD programs, regardless of the field, require students to take two to three years of courses and seminars about topics across the discipline before they being working on their dissertation.

Funding and Salary

In several European countries, PhD students are seen as employees and have work contracts. As employees, PhD students pay into health insurance, pension, and unemployment insurance. In countries where PhD students are not employees (such as the UK and Italy) students apply for university scholarships, external fellowships, or research grants for funding. Tuition fees are drastically lower in many European countries compared to the United States. Funding at American universities varies widely, as do tuition fees. Private universities have higher tuition than public state schools (though international students usually higher tuition at state schools). The top schools offer five-year funding packages which cover tuition and fees and provide a monthly stipend. They also often include health insurance and conference travel. At other schools, students must compete for fellowships at the university, state, or national level to fund their PhDs. In some departmnets students will be paid and receive partial tuition credit for take teaching assistantship or research assistantship positions.

Comprehensive Exams

Most European PhD programs do not require students to pass qualifying exams to progress through their PhDs. There are some notable exceptions, like Sweden, where PhD candidates do an oral and written exam at the halfway point of their PhD. In the US, students usually have to pass a series of comprehensive exams before they can start working on their dissertation. The exams test the student’s knowledge of the major fields within their discipline. While every university will have a slightly different exam structure, there is usually an oral and a written component. Sometimes students also have to orally defend their dissertation proposal. After the candidate has completed their coursework and passed all the required exams they are considered ABD (all but dissertation).

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Eleven from MIT awarded 2024 Fulbright fellowships

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Eleven MIT undergraduates, graduate students, and alumni have won Fulbright grants to embark on projects overseas in the 2024-25 grant cycle. Two other students were offered awards but declined them to pursue other opportunities.

Funded by the U.S. Department of State, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers year-long opportunities for American citizen students and recent alumni to conduct independent research, pursue graduate studies, or teach English in over 140 countries.

MIT has been a Fulbright Top-Producing Institution for five years in a row. MIT students and alumni interested in applying to the Fulbright U.S. Student Program should contact Julia Mongo, MIT Fulbright program advisor, in the Office of Distinguished Fellowships in Career Advising and Professional Development.

April Cheng is a junior studying physics with a minor in mathematics and is fast-tracked to graduate this spring. They will take their Fulbright research grant to the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics in Potsdam, Germany, where they will study different statistical techniques to infer the expansion rate of the universe from gravitational waves. They first developed an interest in gravitational waves and black holes at the MIT LIGO and Caltech LIGO labs, but their research spans a wide range of topics in astrophysics, including cosmology and fast radio bursts. Cheng is passionate about physics education and is heavily involved in developing educational materials for high school Science Olympiads. At MIT, they are a member of the Physics Values Committee, the physics mentorship program, and the MIT Lion Dance team. After Fulbright, Cheng will pursue a PhD in astrophysics at Princeton University, where they have received the President’s Fellowship.

Grace McMillan is a senior majoring in literature and mechanical engineering with a concentration in Russian language. As a Fulbright English Teaching Assistant Award recipient, she will teach at a university in Kazakhstan. McMillan’s interest in Central Asia was sparked by a Russian language immersion program she participated in during her sophomore summer in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, funded by MIT International Science and Technology Initiatives (MISTI). She is excited to help her students learn English to foster integration into the global academic community. During her time at MIT, McMillan has conducted research with faculty in nuclear science; earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences; and the Digital Humanities Lab. Outside of academics, she has been an active member of her sorority, Sigma Kappa, and has served on the MIT Health Consumers’ Advisory Council for two years. After Fulbright, McMillan hopes to attend law school, focusing on education reform.

Ryan McTigue will graduate this spring with a BS in physics and mathematics and a concentration in Spanish. With a Fulbright award to Spain, he will do research at the University of Valencia’s Institute of Molecular Science focusing on the physics of two-dimensional multiferroic nanodevices. He is looking forward to improving his Spanish and getting the opportunity to live abroad. At MIT, McTigue became interested in condensed matter physics research with the Checkelsky group, where he focused on engineering materials with flat bands that exhibited correlated electron effects. Outside of research, McTigue has been a mentor in the physics department’s mentoring program and a member of the heavyweight men’s crew team. After his Fulbright grant, McTigue will begin a PhD in physics at Princeton University.

Keith Murray ’22 graduated from MIT with a BS in computation and cognition and linguistics and philosophy. He will receive his MEng degree in computation and cognition this spring. As a Fulbright Hungary research grantee at the HUN-REN Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Murray will design generative AI models inspired by the primary visual cortex with the goal of making AI models more interpretable. At MIT, Murray’s research experiences spanned from training mice to perform navigation tasks in virtual reality to theorizing about how neurons might compute modular arithmetic. He was also a member of the men’s heavyweight crew team and the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. After Fulbright, Murray will pursue a PhD in neuroscience at Princeton University.

Maaya Prasad ’22 completed her undergraduate education at MIT with degrees in both electrical engineering and creative writing and will graduate this month with an MS in mechanical and ocean engineering. Her thesis research focuses on microplastic detection using optical sensing. Prasad’s Fulbright fellowship will take her to Mauritius, an East African island country located in the Indian Ocean. Here, she will continue her master’s research at the University of Mauritius and will work with local researchers to implement a microplastic survey system. While at MIT, Prasad joined the varsity sailing team with no prior experience. Her time spent on the water led her to pursue marine research at MIT Sea Grant, and she eventually earned an honorable mention to the 2023 All-American Sailing Team. After Fulbright, Prasad hopes to pursue a PhD in applied ocean engineering.

Anusha Puri is a senior majoring in biological engineering. Her Fulbright award will take her to Lausanne, Switzerland, where she will conduct cancer immunology research at the Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research. At MIT, Puri’s work in the Weinberg Lab focused on understanding mechanisms that drive resistance of breast cancer to immunotherapy. On campus, she founded and serves as president of MIT’s premiere stand-up comedy group, Stand-Up CoMITy, leads MIT’s Bhangra dance team, and is the editor-in-chief of the MIT Undergraduate Research Journal . She looks forward to engaging with teaching outreach and practicing her French in Switzerland. After her Fulbright grant, she plans to pursue a PhD in biomedical science.

Olivia Rosenstein will graduate this spring with a BS in physics and a minor in French. Her Fulbright will take her to ENS Paris-Saclay in Palaiseau, France, where she’ll deepen her education in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics. At MIT, Rosenstein has worked in Professor Mark Vogelsberger’s group researching models of galaxy formation and the early universe, and in Professor Richard Fletcher’s group on an erbium-lithium experiment to investigate quantum many-body dynamics in a degenerate mixture. In France, she will expand on the skills she developed in Fletcher’s lab by contributing to a project using optical tweezer arrays to study dipolar interactions. After Fulbright, Rosenstein plans to return to the United States to pursue a PhD in experimental AMO at Caltech.

Jennifer Schug willreceive this spring an MEng degree in the Climate, Environment, and Sustainability track within the MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. During her Fulbright year in Italy, she will conduct research on carbon storage in the Venice lagoon at the University of Padua. Schug is excited to build upon her research with the Terrer Lab at MIT, where she is currently investigating the effectiveness of forestation as a carbon sequestration strategy. She also looks forward to improving her Italian language skills and learning about Italian history and culture. Before beginning Fulbright this fall, Schug will study ecological preservation in Sicily this summer through an MIT-Italy collaboration with the University of Catania. After Fulbright, she hopes to continue researching nature-based solutions as climate change mitigation strategies.

Vaibhavi Shah ’21 earned a BS in biological engineering and in science, technology, and society at MIT, where she was named a Goldwater Scholar. She is now a medical student at Stanford University. As a Fulbright-Fogarty Fellow in Public Health, Shah will use both her computational and humanities backgrounds to investigate sociocultural factors underlying traumatic surgical injuries in Nepal. While at MIT, she was on the executive board of GlobeMed and the Society of Women Engineers, and she hopes to use those experiences to amplify diverse voices in medicine while on her journey to becoming a neurosurgeon-scientist. After Fulbright, Shah will complete her final year of medical school.

Charvi Sharma is a senior studying computer science and molecular biology with a minor in theater arts. As a Fulbright English teaching assistant in Spain, she is excited to engage in cross-cultural exchange while furthering her skills as a teacher and as a leader. In addition to teaching, Sharma looks forward to immersing herself in the country’s vibrant traditions, improving her Spanish proficiency, and delving into the local arts and dance scene. At MIT, through Global Teaching Labs Spain and her roles as a dynaMIT mentor, an associate advisor, and a captain and president of her dance teams Mirchi and Nritya, Sharma has served as a teacher of both STEM and dance. Her passion for making a difference in her community is also evident through her work with Boston Medical Center’s Autism Program through the PKG Public Service Center and as an undergraduate cancer researcher in the Yaffe Lab. After Fulbright, Sharma plans to pursue an MD and, ultimately, a career as a clinician-scientist.

Isabella Witham is a senior majoring in biological engineering. As a recipient of the Fulbright U.S.-Korea Presidential STEM Initiative Award, she will conduct research at Seoul National University’s Biomimetic Materials and Stem Cell Engineering Lab. Her work will involve creating biomimetic scaffolds for pancreatic cell transplantation to treat type I diabetes. While in South Korea, Witham aims to improve her language skills and explore cultural sites and cities. At MIT, she worked in the Belcher Lab on nanoparticle formulations, was a tutor for MIT’s Women’s Technology Program, and volunteered as a Medlink. After her Fulbright fellowship, she plans to pursue a PhD in biological engineering.

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