Chance for prestigious scholarships of the Foundation for Polish Science
The next edition of the START 2026 competition has begun, in which young scientists from all over Poland can apply for prestigious scholarships. The competition is run by the Foundation for Polish Science, which for over 30 years has been carrying out the mission of supporting science in our country. Applications for this year’s competition can be submitted by the 5th of November 2025
The START program of the Foundation for Polish Science is the oldest scholarship program for young researchers in Poland. Its aim is to support the most talented young scientists who can boast outstanding scientific achievements. The winners and laureates receive an annual individual scholarship of PLN 30 thousand. The Foundation awards 100 people in this way every year.
- The future of Poland is made up of talented young people who decide to stay in Poland and pursue their passions here. The START program is not only financial support, it is also a clear signal that talent, knowledge and hard work are highly appreciated in our country. It is an outstretched hand to the most talented researchers who will shape science, economy, or politics - says Prof. Krzysztof Pyrć, President of the Board of the Foundation for Polish Science.
Scholarships under the START program are awarded through a competition. It is open to scientists from all over Poland, representing all fields of science, who in the year of submitting the application are not more than 30 years of age.
The main criterion for the evaluation of candidates is the quality and originality of the current scientific and research achievements. The evaluation of proposals consists of several stages and is carried out by eminent specialists in the field. The START program also offers scholarships to a research centre abroad chosen by the candidate and additional awards for laureates whose achievements have been rated the highest by reviewers.
So far, more than 3600 outstanding researchers have been awarded prestigious scholarships, to whom the Foundation for Polish Science has donated over PLN 99.5 million in total.
The call for proposals for the START 2026 competition is now open. Applications can be submitted until the 5th of November 2025. The results will be announced in the second quarter of 2026. The START scholarship competition is organized once a year.
Scholarships in the 2026 competition will be financed from the budget of the FNP and from funds provided by institutional and private donors, including contributions of 1.5% income tax. More information about the START program – on the website of the Foundation for Polish Science: http://www.fnp.org.pl
The Foundation for Polish Science has existed since 1991 and is an independent non-profit non-governmental institution that carries out the mission of supporting science. The statutory objectives of the FNP include support for outstanding scientists and research teams and action for the transfer of scientific achievements into business practice. The Foundation implements its objectives by awarding individual prizes and scholarships for researchers, granting subsidies for implementing scientific achievements into business practice, other forms of supporting important undertakings serving science (such as publishing programs,
conferences). The Foundation is also committed to supporting international scientific cooperation and increasing the scientific independence of the young generation of scientists.
