ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme

Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics (ICTP)

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Young qualified graduates, generally under 28, with a degree equivalent to an MSc (or an exceptionally good BSc) in physics, mathematics or a related field, from a UN, UNESCO or IAEA member country. Fluent English. Scholarships go to successful candidates from developing countries; a limited number of others may attend at their own cost. Needs two letters of recommendation from senior scientists.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

ICTP's Postgraduate Diploma Programme is a one-year course (two semesters of classes followed by a research project and dissertation) that prepares graduates from developing countries for PhD studies in physics and mathematics. Selection is based on university performance and academic recommendations.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Young qualified graduates, generally under 28, with a degree equivalent to an MSc (or an exceptionally good BSc) in physics, mathematics or a related field, from a UN, UNESCO or IAEA member country. Fluent English. Scholarships go to successful candidates from developing countries; a limited number of others may attend at their own cost. Needs two letters of recommendation from senior scientists.
2. Note the deadline. Feb – Mar (annual; the 2026-27 call closed on 15 Mar 2026 after an extension - the next call should be published around February 2027) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
2. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
3. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
4. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.
5. Submit at least 48 hours before the deadline. Portals slow down on the last day.
6. Have your SOP and CV reviewed by someone who has seen successful applications before you submit.

Quick answers

Who can apply for ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme?

Young qualified graduates, generally under 28, with a degree equivalent to an MSc (or an exceptionally good BSc) in physics, mathematics or a related field, from a UN, UNESCO or IAEA member country. Fluent English. Scholarships go to successful candidates from developing countries; a limited number of others may attend at their own cost. Needs two letters of recommendation from senior scientists.

What does ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme cover?

A one-year postgraduate diploma in physics or mathematics at ICTP in Trieste with no course fees; about 10 scholarships per field for candidates from developing countries cover travel and living expenses for the full year

When is the deadline for ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme?

Feb – Mar (annual; the 2026-27 call closed on 15 Mar 2026 after an extension - the next call should be published around February 2027) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme?

Host countries: Italy.

What documents do I need for ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme?

Passport or national ID; Academic transcripts and degree certificates; CV; Statement of purpose or motivation letter (if requested); Reference or recommendation letters (if requested); Research proposal (for research degrees, if requested); English-language test result or other language proof (if required); Anything else listed on the official page (this list is a typical checklist - always confirm there).

How much work is the ICTP Postgraduate Diploma Programme application?

High: Online application + transcripts and degree certificates in English + 2 recommendation letters