Slovak Government Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Study in Slovakia for Students from ODA Countries

Introduction

The National Scholarship Programme (NSP) of the Slovak Republic is one of Central Europe’s most accessible fully funded scholarships for international students, researchers, and academics. Administered by SAIA, n.o. (Slovak Academic Information Agency) on behalf of the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, this programme has been running since 2005 and continues to welcome applicants from around the world.

For students from ODA (Official Development Assistance) countries — a list that includes many nations across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific — the NSP carries an additional benefit: a travel allowance on top of the monthly living stipend and tuition coverage at Slovak public universities.

This article provides a detailed, verified guide to the Slovak Government Scholarship for the 2026 application cycle. You will find information on who qualifies, what the funding covers, how much you will receive, which degree levels are supported, and exactly how to submit your application through the official portal.

Important note before you continue: The NSP operates on an annual cycle with two application windows per year. While the programme is well-established and ongoing, specific deadlines and stipend amounts for the 2026 cycle should always be confirmed on the official website at www.scholarships.sk before you apply. This article reflects the programme structure and funding levels based on the most recent publicly available information at the time of publication.

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What You Need to Know About the Slovak National Scholarship Programme

What Is the NSP?

The National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic is a government-funded mobility programme that supports international students, PhD candidates, university lecturers, researchers, and artists who wish to study, teach, or conduct research at Slovak universities and research institutions.

The programme is funded entirely by the Slovak government through the Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth. SAIA, n.o. serves as the administrative body that processes applications, coordinates with host institutions, and disburses funds.

Who Is It For?

The NSP is open to applicants from all countries worldwide. However, the programme distinguishes between two broad applicant categories:

1. Applicants from all countries (general category)
2. Applicants from ODA countries (who receive additional travel funding)

ODA countries are those listed on the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) List of ODA Recipients. This list includes many developing and least-developed nations across Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Oceania.

If your country of citizenship appears on the OECD DAC list, you qualify for the ODA-specific travel allowance in addition to the standard stipend.

What Degree Levels Are Covered?

This is a critical point that many applicants misunderstand. The NSP is not available for bachelor’s (undergraduate) students. The programme supports:

• Master’s students (you must have completed at least 2.5 years of your university studies at the time of application — meaning you should be entering at least your 5th semester of a combined bachelor-master track, or be already enrolled in a standalone master’s programme)
• PhD students (doctoral candidates enrolled at a university outside Slovakia)
• University teachers, researchers, and artists (postdoctoral and above)

If you are currently in your first or second year of a bachelor’s degree, you are not yet eligible. Plan ahead and apply when you reach the required academic level.

What Fields of Study Are Supported?

The NSP is open to all academic disciplines and fields of study. Whether you are in engineering, medicine, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities, arts, agriculture, law, or any other field, you may apply. The key requirement is that a Slovak host institution must agree to accept you for the proposed study or research stay.

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Fully Funded Scholarship Details: What Does the NSP Cover?

The NSP is considered a fully funded scholarship for ODA country applicants because it covers the three major cost categories of studying abroad: living expenses, tuition, and travel. Here is the breakdown:

Monthly Stipend

The stipend is paid monthly for the duration of your approved stay. Based on the most recent published rates:

Note: These stipend amounts are based on the most recently published NSP guidelines. Stipend levels may be adjusted for the 2026 cycle. Always verify current amounts at www.scholarships.sk.

Tuition Fees

Scholarship holders who study at Slovak public universities do not pay tuition fees for the duration of their NSP-funded stay. This is a significant benefit, as it removes the largest financial barrier to studying in Europe.

Travel Allowance (ODA Country Applicants Only)

This is the benefit that specifically applies to readers from ODA countries. If your country of citizenship is on the OECD DAC list, you will receive a travel allowance to help cover the cost of your round-trip journey to and from Slovakia.

The travel allowance amount depends on the distance between your home country and Slovakia:

This allowance is paid as a lump sum and is intended to offset your airfare or other travel costs. While it may not cover the full cost of a long-haul flight from, say, West Africa or Southeast Asia, it provides meaningful financial support.

Accommodation

The NSP does not directly pay for accommodation. You are expected to cover your housing costs from your monthly stipend. However, many Slovak universities offer affordable dormitory accommodation to international students, often at rates between €80 and €150 per month, which is manageable within the stipend.

Health Insurance

The NSP does not automatically provide health insurance. You are responsible for arranging your own health insurance coverage for the duration of your stay. This is also a requirement for obtaining a Slovak student visa or temporary residence permit. Budget approximately €30–€60 per month for basic health insurance.

Duration of Stay

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Eligibility Requirements for ODA Country Applicants

To be eligible for the Slovak Government Scholarship under the NSP, you must meet the following criteria:

Nationality

• You must be a citizen of a country other than Slovakia.
• For the travel allowance, your country of citizenship must appear on the OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients.
• You must not be a permanent resident of Slovakia at the time of application.

Academic Requirements

For Master’s students:

• You must be enrolled at a university outside Slovakia at the time of application.
• You must have completed at least 2.5 years (5 semesters) of university-level study by the time your scholarship stay begins.
• You must be accepted by a Slovak public university for a study stay.

For PhD students:

• You must be enrolled in a doctoral programme at a university outside Slovakia.
• You must be accepted by a Slovak university or research institution for a research stay.

For university teachers, researchers, and artists:

• You must hold at least a master’s degree (or equivalent).
• You must be employed by a university or research institution outside Slovakia.
• You must be invited by a Slovak host institution.

Language Requirements

• There is no universal IELTS or TOEFL requirement imposed by the NSP itself.
• However, your chosen programme at the Slovak host university may be taught in Slovak or English.
• If your programme is in English, the host university may require proof of English proficiency.
• If your programme is in Slovak, you will need to demonstrate Slovak language competence.
• Many Slovak universities offer programmes in English, particularly at the master’s and PhD levels.

Age Limit

• The NSP does not impose a specific age limit. Eligibility is based on academic level and enrolment status, not age.

Application Fee

• There is no application fee for the NSP. The application is completely free through the official SAIA online portal.

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How to Apply for the Slovak Government Scholarship 2026

The application process is entirely online and managed through the SAIA application system. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1 — Confirm Your Eligibility

Before investing time in the application, verify that you meet all eligibility criteria outlined above. Check the OECD DAC list to confirm your ODA status. Ensure you will have completed the required number of semesters by the start of your proposed stay.

Step 2 — Identify a Slovak Host Institution

You must secure acceptance from a Slovak university or research institution before you apply. This is one of the most important steps.

• Browse the websites of Slovak public universities (a list is available on the SAIA website).
• Contact the international office or relevant faculty department at your chosen university.
• Explain your research interests or study plans and request a letter of acceptance or letter of invitation.
• Major Slovak universities include Comenius University in Bratislava, Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava, Technical University of Košice, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice, University of Žilina, and Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica, among others.

Step 3 — Prepare Your Documents

You will need to upload the following documents to the online application system:

• Completed online application form (filled through the SAIA portal)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) — use the Europass format or a clear academic CV
• Motivation letter — explain why you want to study/research in Slovakia, your academic goals, and how the stay fits into your career plans
• Study or research programme — a detailed outline of what you plan to do during your stay (typically 2–3 pages)
• Letter of acceptance from the Slovak host institution
• Two letters of recommendation from university professors or academic supervisors
• Proof of enrolment at your home university (confirmation of student status)
• Academic transcripts from your current and previous studies
• Copy of your passport (valid for the duration of your planned stay)
• Proof of language proficiency (if required by the host institution)

Step 4 — Register on the SAIA Online Portal

• Go to www.scholarships.sk.
• Create an account on the SAIA online application system.
• Fill in all required fields accurately.

Step 5 — Submit Your Application

• Upload all documents in the required format (usually PDF).
• Review your application carefully for completeness and accuracy.
• Submit before the deadline. Late applications are not accepted.

Step 6 — Monitor Your Application Status

• After submission, SAIA will review your application.
• You may be contacted for additional information.
• Results are typically announced within 2–3 months after the deadline.

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Application Deadlines for 2026

The NSP traditionally operates with two application deadlines per year:

For the 2026 cycle:

• Autumn 2025 deadline (for spring 2026 stays): Expected around October 31, 2025
• Spring 2026 deadline (for autumn 2026 stays): Expected around April 30, 2026

Critical note: These dates follow the established pattern of previous years. The exact deadlines for the 2026 cycle will be confirmed on the official SAIA website. Do not assume these dates are final until SAIA publishes the official call for applications. Check www.scholarships.sk regularly for updates.

Status: UPCOMING (based on the programme’s established annual cycle)

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Major Slovak Universities That Accept NSP Scholars

Here are some of the top public universities in Slovakia where you can use your NSP scholarship. All of these institutions regularly host international NSP scholars:

Comenius University in Bratislava (Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave)

• Location: Bratislava
• Strengths: Medicine, law, natural sciences, social sciences, humanities
• English programmes: Available at master’s and PhD levels
• Website: www.uniba.sk

Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (Slovenská technická univerzita v Bratislave)

• Location: Bratislava
• Strengths: Engineering, architecture, computer science, materials science
• English programmes: Widely available
• Website: www.stuba.sk

Technical University of Košice (Technická univerzita v Košiciach)

• Location: Košice
• Strengths: Engineering, IT, aeronautics, mining, economics
• English programmes: Available at multiple levels
• Website: www.tuke.sk

Pavol Jozef Šafárik University in Košice (Univerzita Pavla Jozefa Šafárika v Košiciach)

• Location: Košice
• Strengths: Medicine, natural sciences, law, public administration
• English programmes: Available, particularly in medicine and sciences
• Website: www.upjs.sk

University of Žilina (Žilinská univerzita v Žiline)

• Location: Žilina
• Strengths: Transport engineering, IT, management, electrical engineering
• English programmes: Available
• Website: www.uniza.sk

Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica (Univerzita Mateja Bela v Banskej Bystrici)

• Location: Banská Bystrica
• Strengths: Economics, political science, education, natural sciences
• English programmes: Available at select faculties
• Website: www.umb.sk

University of Economics in Bratislava (Ekonomická univerzita v Bratislave)

• Location: Bratislava
• Strengths: Business, economics, finance, international relations
• English programmes: Available
• Website: www.euba.sk

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Opportunities for African Students

The NSP is particularly relevant for students from African ODA countries. Many African nations — including Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Cameroon, Senegal, South Africa (partial ODA status), and dozens more — appear on the OECD DAC list.

Key Points for African Applicants

• Travel allowance: African countries generally fall into the “over 7,000 km” category, meaning you would receive the maximum travel allowance of €700.
• English-taught programmes: Several Slovak universities offer master’s and PhD programmes in English, removing the Slovak language barrier.
• No application fee: The application is free, which is important for applicants who may face financial constraints.
• Visa process: As a non-EU/EEA citizen, you will need to apply for a temporary residence permit for the purpose of study at the Slovak embassy or consulate in your home country (or the nearest one). Start this process early, as it can take 2–3 months.
• Living costs: Slovakia is one of the more affordable EU countries. Monthly living expenses in Bratislava typically range from €500 to €700, and in smaller cities like Košice or Žilina, they can be as low as €350 to €500. The NSP stipend of €400 for master’s students may cover basic living costs in smaller cities but could be tight in Bratislava. Budget carefully.

Documents African Applicants Should Prepare Early

• Valid international passport (with at least 18 months validity)
• Legalised or apostilled academic certificates and transcripts (check the specific requirements of your host university)
• Medical certificate (required for the residence permit application)
• Criminal record check (required for the residence permit application)
• Proof of accommodation in Slovakia (your host university’s dormitory confirmation can serve this purpose)
• Health insurance coverage

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Opportunities for Nigerian Students

Nigeria is on the OECD DAC list of ODA recipients, making Nigerian students eligible for the full NSP package including the €700 travel allowance.

Specific Considerations for Nigerian Applicants

• Visa application: Apply at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Abuja. Processing times can be lengthy, so begin your residence permit application as soon as you receive your scholarship award letter.
• Document authentication: Ensure your WAEC/NECO results, university transcripts, and degree certificates are properly authenticated. Slovak authorities may require documents to be superlegalised or apostilled.
• English proficiency: While the NSP itself does not require IELTS, your chosen Slovak university may. Check the specific language requirements of your host institution.
• Community: There is a growing community of African students in Bratislava and Košice. Connect with student associations for support and advice.

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Important Things to Know Before Applying

Competition

The NSP is a competitive programme. SAIA receives thousands of applications each cycle from around the world. A strong academic record, a well-written motivation letter, and a clear research or study plan will significantly improve your chances.

Stipend vs. Living Costs

While the NSP stipend covers basic living expenses, it may not be generous by Western European standards. Master’s students receiving €400 per month should be prepared to live modestly, especially in Bratislava. Consider supplementing your budget with personal savings if possible.

Health Insurance Is Your Responsibility

Do not arrive in Slovakia without health insurance. It is a legal requirement for your residence permit and essential for your wellbeing. Research affordable international student insurance options before you travel.

No Bachelor’s Students

This cannot be stressed enough: the NSP is not available for undergraduate students. If you are currently pursuing your bachelor’s degree and have not yet completed 2.5 years, you are not yet eligible. Use this time to build a strong academic profile and plan your application for when you qualify.

Host Institution Acceptance Is Mandatory

You cannot apply to the NSP without a letter of acceptance from a Slovak university. This means you need to contact and secure a host institution before the NSP deadline. Start this process at least 2–3 months before the application deadline.

Fraud Warnings

• The NSP application is free of charge. Any website, agent, or individual asking you to pay a fee to apply for the Slovak Government Scholarship is not legitimate.
• Only apply through the official SAIA portal at www.scholarships.sk.
• SAIA will never ask for payment via cryptocurrency, mobile money, or bank transfer to a personal account.
• Be cautious of fake scholarship agents on WhatsApp, Facebook, or Telegram who claim to “guarantee” your selection.

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Application Guide: Step-by-Step Summary

Step 1 — Confirm your eligibility (ODA country, academic level, enrolment status).

Step 2 — Research Slovak universities and programmes in your field.

Step 3 — Contact the international office of your chosen Slovak university and request a letter of acceptance.

Step 4 — Prepare your CV, motivation letter, study/research plan, transcripts, and recommendation letters.

Step 5 — Register at www.scholarships.sk and create your application account.

Step 6 — Complete the online application form and upload all required documents.

Step 7 — Submit your application before the deadline (typically April 30 or October 31).

Step 8 — Save your application confirmation and reference number.

Step 9 — Monitor your email and SAIA account for updates on your application status.

Step 10 — If selected, begin the visa/residence permit application process at the nearest Slovak embassy immediately.

Step 11 — Arrange health insurance, accommodation, and travel.

Step 12 — Arrive in Slovakia and register with your host institution.

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Documents You Need (Checklist)

•  Valid passport
•  Completed SAIA online application form
•  Curriculum Vitae (CV)
•  Motivation letter
•  Study or research programme (2–3 pages)
•  Letter of acceptance from a Slovak host institution
•  Two letters of recommendation
•  Proof of enrolment at your home university
•  Academic transcripts
•  Proof of language proficiency (if required by host institution)
•  Copy of diploma (for PhD students and researchers)

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Applying without a host institution acceptance letter. Your application will be rejected without one.
2. Missing the deadline. SAIA does not accept late applications under any circumstances.
3. Submitting incomplete documents. Double-check that every required file is uploaded in the correct format.
4. Writing a generic motivation letter. Tailor your letter to Slovakia, your chosen university, and your specific academic goals.
5. Underestimating the visa timeline. Start your residence permit application as soon as you are awarded the scholarship.
6. Assuming the stipend covers everything. Budget for health insurance, initial setup costs, and personal expenses.
7. Applying as a bachelor’s student. You must have completed at least 2.5 years of university study.

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Best Options at a Glance

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Conclusion

The Slovak Government’s National Scholarship Programme is a genuine, fully funded opportunity for students and academics from ODA countries who want to study or conduct research in Central Europe. With a monthly stipend, tuition waiver at public universities, and a travel allowance of up to €700, the NSP removes many of the financial barriers that prevent talented students from developing countries from accessing European higher education.

If you are a master’s student (with at least 2.5 years of study completed), a PhD candidate, or a university researcher from an ODA-listed country, this programme deserves your serious attention. Begin by identifying a Slovak host institution in your field, preparing your documents early, and submitting your application through the official SAIA portal before the deadline.

Always verify the latest information — including exact deadlines, stipend amounts, and application requirements — on the official website at www.scholarships.sk. Scholarship details can change from cycle to cycle, and the official source is the only authoritative reference.

Keep checking ScholarCareer.com for verified scholarship, study abroad, job, and career opportunities updated regularly for international students and professionals.

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11. SCHOLARSHIP COMPARISON TABLE

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12. COUNTRY-BY-COUNTRY OPPORTUNITIES

This article focuses specifically on Slovakia. For other fully funded scholarship opportunities across Europe, explore the following ScholarCareer resources:

• Germany: DAAD Scholarships, Deutschlandstipendium → /scholarships/countries/
• France: Eiffel Excellence Scholarship → /study-abroad/europe/
• Netherlands: Holland Scholarship, Orange Knowledge Programme → /scholarships/fully-funded/
• Sweden: Swedish Institute Scholarships → /scholarships/fully-funded/
• Hungary: Stipendium Hungaricum → /scholarships/countries/

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13. APPLICATION GUIDE

(See the detailed step-by-step guide in the main article body above under “How to Apply for the Slovak Government Scholarship 2026” and “Application Guide: Step-by-Step Summary.”)

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14. IMPORTANT WARNINGS

• No application fee: The NSP is free to apply. Anyone asking you to pay is a scammer.
• No guaranteed selection: Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee you will receive the scholarship. The selection process is competitive.
• Official portal only: Apply exclusively through www.scholarships.sk. Do not use third-party agents or unofficial websites.
• Visa is your responsibility: The scholarship does not automatically grant you a visa. You must apply for a temporary residence permit through the Slovak embassy.
• Stipend may not cover all expenses: Budget for health insurance, initial travel costs beyond the allowance, and personal expenses.
• Deadlines are strict: Late applications are not accepted. Submit well before the deadline.
• ScholarCareer.com does not guarantee admission, scholarship selection, visa approval, or any outcome. We provide information for guidance purposes only.

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15. FAQ

Q1: Is the Slovak Government Scholarship really fully funded?
The NSP covers a monthly living stipend, tuition fees at public universities, and a travel allowance for ODA country applicants. It does not directly cover accommodation or health insurance, which you must fund from your stipend or personal resources. For ODA applicants, the combination of stipend, tuition waiver, and travel allowance makes it substantially funded.

Q2: Can bachelor’s students apply for the Slovak NSP?
No. The NSP is only available to master’s students (who have completed at least 2.5 years of university study), PhD students, and university teachers/researchers/artists. Bachelor’s students are not eligible.

Q3: What is an ODA country?
ODA stands for Official Development Assistance. ODA countries are those listed on the OECD Development Assistance Committee (DAC) List of ODA Recipients. This list includes most developing and least-developed nations across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Pacific. If your country is on this list, you qualify for the NSP travel allowance.

Q4: Do I need IELTS to apply?
The NSP itself does not require IELTS or TOEFL. However, your chosen Slovak university may require proof of English proficiency if your programme is taught in English. Check with your host institution directly.

Q5: How much is the monthly stipend?
Based on the most recent published rates: €400 for master’s students, €734 for PhD students, and €1,100–€1,470 for researchers/teachers depending on experience. Verify current rates at www.scholarships.sk.

Q6: Can I work in Slovakia while on the NSP scholarship?
NSP scholarship holders with a temporary residence permit for study purposes are generally allowed to work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during the academic year. However, your primary focus should be your studies or research. Confirm current work regulations with the Slovak Foreign Police.

Q7: When is the deadline for the 2026 cycle?
The NSP typically has two annual deadlines: around April 30 (for autumn stays) and October 31 (for spring stays). The exact 2026 deadlines will be confirmed on the official SAIA website. Check www.scholarships.sk for the latest information.

Q8: Is there an application fee?
No. The NSP application is completely free. Be wary of any person or website that asks you to pay a fee to apply.

Q9: Can I apply if I am already in Slovakia?
Generally, the NSP is intended for applicants who are currently residing and studying/working outside Slovakia. If you are already a permanent resident of Slovakia, you are not eligible. Check the specific terms on the SAIA website for your situation.

Q10: How long does the selection process take?
Results are typically announced 2–3 months after the application deadline. You will be notified by email and through the SAIA online portal.

Q11: What happens if my application is rejected?
You can reapply in the next application cycle. There is no limit on the number of times you can apply, provided you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

Q12: Does the scholarship cover my family members?
No. The NSP stipend and travel allowance are for the scholarship holder only. If you plan to bring family members, you must demonstrate sufficient additional financial resources for their visa and living costs.

 

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17. OFFICIAL SOURCES

1. SAIA – National Scholarship Programme Official Website: https://www.scholarships.sk
2. SAIA – Slovak Academic Information Agency: https://www.saia.sk
3. Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic: https://www.minedu.sk
4. OECD DAC List of ODA Recipients: https://www.oecd.org/dac/financing-sustainable-development/development-finance-standards/dac-list-of-oda-recipients.htm
5. Slovak Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visa Information): https://www.mzv.sk
6. Comenius University Bratislava: https://www.uniba.sk
7. Slovak University of Technology: https://www.stuba.sk
8. Technical University of Košice: https://www.tuke.sk

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18. FINAL FACT-CHECK NOTES

✓ Scholarship name: National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic — verified via SAIA and Ministry of Education websites.

✓ Provider: Ministry of Education, Research, Development and Youth of the Slovak Republic, administered by SAIA, n.o. — verified.

✓ Country: Slovakia (Slovak Republic) — verified.

✓ Degree levels: Master’s (2.5+ years completed), PhD, researchers/teachers/artists — verified. NOT available for bachelor’s students — confirmed.

✓ Stipend amounts: €400 (master’s), €734 (PhD), €1,100–€1,470 (researchers) — based on most recently published NSP guidelines. Noted that amounts may be adjusted for 2026.

✓ Travel allowance for ODA: €200/€400/€700 based on distance — verified via SAIA guidelines.

✓ Tuition coverage: Tuition waived at Slovak public universities for NSP holders — verified.

✓ Deadlines: April 30 and October 31 (typical annual pattern) — based on established programme cycle. Clearly noted that 2026-specific dates must be confirmed on the official website.

✓ Application fee: None — verified.

✓ Official application portal: www.scholarships.sk — verified.

✓ ODA eligibility: Based on OECD DAC list — verified.

✓ No IELTS requirement from NSP itself: Confirmed; language requirements depend on host institution.

✓ Health insurance and accommodation: Not covered by NSP — clearly stated.

⚠ 2026-specific deadlines and stipend amounts: Marked as “expected” based on historical patterns. Readers are directed to verify on the official SAIA website. This information could not be independently confirmed as final for the 2026 cycle at the time of publication.

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Last Verified: July 2025

Scholarship deadlines, eligibility requirements, stipend amounts, and visa rules can change. Always confirm the latest information on the official SAIA website at www.scholarships.sk before applying. ScholarCareer.com provides this information for guidance purposes and does not guarantee scholarship selection, admission, or visa approval.