Got a Doctoral Study Right at University of Turku, But No Funding Yet. What Should I Do?
Hi everyone,
I recently received a doctoral study right at the University of Turku, and two supervisors have agreed to guide my project. I’m honestly very happy about it, but I’m now trying to understand the funding side. I am also excited because the city is really pretty.
From what I understand, the study right/admission itself does not include funding or a stipend. There is a separate autumn call for funded doctoral researcher positions, but it seems quite competitive, and only a small number of positions are available each year. I’m also looking into Finnish foundations and external grants, but I’m still trying to figure out what is realistic and what I should prioritise.
My main issue is: I would really like to take up the place, but I cannot move to Finland or begin the PhD properly without funding. I’m willing to put in the work and apply wherever needed, but I’m a bit unsure about the best strategy from here.
Has anyone here been in a similar situation with a Finnish doctoral study right but no initial funding? What funding routes should I focus on? Are foundation grants realistic for international doctoral researchers, or is the university-funded doctoral researcher position the main route? Any advice on how to strengthen the application would be really helpful.
Thanks in advance.