The IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program, funded by distinguished Breakthrough Prize laureates in mathematics, enables exceptional students from developing nations to pursue doctoral studies in mathematical sciences within their home regions. Jointly administered by the International Mathematical Union (IMU) and Friends of IMU (FIMU), this initiative bridges global mathematical expertise with local academic development, fostering sustainable growth in underserved communities.
Recognized in prominent publications such as the IMU-Net editorial by Terry Tao and Richard Taylor, and featured in the AMS Notices, the program supports scholars committed to advancing research and education in mathematics. By prioritizing doctoral training within developing countries, it strengthens local institutions while maintaining international academic standards.
The program has been established through the contributions of mathematics luminaries including Ian Agol, Terence Tao, and Richard Taylor. The main goal of this fellowship is to reflect a global commitment to equitable access in mathematical education.
Program Details
- Host Institution(s): Host institutions in developing countries.
- Study Field: Mathematical Sciences.
- Duration: Up to 4 years or until PhD completion (whichever comes first)
- Number of Scholarships: Not provided.
- Target Group: Citizens and residents of IMU-classified developing countries.
IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Benefits
Selected candidates for this fellowship program will be provided with the following benefits:
- Annual grant up to $10,000 USD
- Tuition fee coverage
- Travel expenses to academic institutions
- Housing support
- Basic living stipend
NB : Funding renewal requires satisfactory academic progress. Awardees cannot hold concurrent scholarships. Grants are subject to IMU’s ability to transfer funds internationally..
IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Eligibility Criteria
In order to apply for this fellowship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
For Nominators (Professors):
- Hold a PhD in mathematics and actively supervise graduate students
- Affiliated with a university/research institution
- Preferred prior mentorship of the nominee
For Student Nominees:
- Citizenship and residency in an IMU-recognized developing country
- Admission/pre-admission to a PhD program in mathematical sciences at a developing country institution
- Confirmed thesis advisor and research project
- Demonstrated academic excellence (certified transcripts)
- Commitment to mathematical research and teaching careers
Selection Criteria (Optional)
- Academic merit and research potential
- Quality of proposed research project
- Alignment with program goals to strengthen local academic capacity
- Evaluated by an international committee representing South America, Africa, Europe, and the CDC
How to Apply for the IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program?
Interested applicants who would like to apply for this foundation scholarship program must follow the instructions given below to submit their application. Click on the Apply button below to access the online application platform.
- Nomination Phase: Eligible professors identify qualified students and prepare documentation.
- Document Preparation: Compile all materials in English (PDF format only).
- Submission: Nominators upload the complete application via the IMU portal by the deadline.
- Post-Submission: Awardees submit annual progress reports and maintain communication with IMU.
Required Documents (Optional)
- From Nominator:
- Nomination letter
- Two recommendation letters
- From Student:
- Research proposal
- Motivation letter detailing career goals
- Certified BSc/MSc transcripts
- PhD program (pre-)acceptance letter
- Curriculum vitae
- From PhD Supervisor:
- Academic CV
For inquiries, please contact [email protected].
The nomination deadline is . Access the application portal and full guidelines on the official IMU website. To be the first to see latest opportunities, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.