The ATCOLD Scholarships are offered in partnership with the Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) to support specialized engineering education in the field of large dam construction and operation. ATCOLD operates as a key contributor to the International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD), focusing on the safety, reliability, and economic viability of dam infrastructure. These reservoirs are critical for the transition to renewable energy, acting as storage for volatile sources like wind and photovoltaics while providing flood protection and drinking water. For the 2025/2026 cycle, ATCOLD is offering a Master’s scholarship valued at up to €17,600 over two years.
ATCOLD Scholarships 2026 in Austria Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) |
| Organization | ATCOLD (National Committee on Large Dams) |
| Study Location | Austria |
| Master’s Reward | €17,600 (Total over 2 years) |
| Target Regions | Africa and Asia (Preferred) |
| Application Window | 15 October 2025 – 14 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | February 14, 2026 |
ATCOLD Scholarships 2026 in Austria Details
ATCOLD (Austrian National Committee on Large Dams) represents Austria’s commitment to global dam safety and engineering excellence. By providing reservoirs that store drinking water, irrigate land, and generate green energy, dams are essential to modern infrastructure. TU Graz, through its Institute for Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management, partners with ATCOLD to ensure that the next generation of engineers can handle the complexities of “Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering.”
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The admission process for this scholarship is highly selective, focusing on students who have already completed a Bachelor’s degree at an external institution. Candidates must demonstrate a clear intent to focus their research on hydraulic engineering, specifically looking at the safety and efficiency of large-scale water retention systems.
Scholarship Details
The ATCOLD scholarship is a performance-based financial aid package designed to facilitate the full two-year duration of a Master’s degree. Payments are distributed at the beginning of each semester, providing consistent support to the student throughout their academic journey in Graz.
Benefits of the ATCOLD Scholarships 2026 in Austria
Tier 1: ATCOLD Master’s Engineering Grant (Up to €17,600)
- Master’s Financial Support: This primary award provides a maximum of €17,600, disbursed in installments at the start of each semester over a maximum of two years. It is specifically reserved for students in the “Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering” Master’s program.
Tier 2: Academic Mentoring & Consultation
- Expert Guidance Award: Scholars benefit from individual consultation and advice provided by mentoring academic staff members at TU Graz. This ensures that the student’s research and thesis work remain aligned with international safety standards for large dams.
Tier 3: Research & Thesis Support
- Institute Integration: Students receive direct support for their Master’s thesis through the Institute for Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management, allowing them to contribute to real-world regulations and engineering solutions within the ICOLD framework.
Eligibility Requirements for the ATCOLD Scholarships 2026 in Austria
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must possess a completed Bachelor’s degree from an institution other than TU Graz. A strong willingness to conduct a Master’s thesis in the field of hydraulic engineering is mandatory.
- Study Status: Open to prospective students who have submitted an application for admission to the Master’s program in Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering.
- Visa Status: Preference is given to students from Africa and Asia, though they must meet all Austrian student visa and residence permit requirements.
- Program Admission: Candidates must be eligible for admission to the specific Master’s degree track at TU Graz.
How to Apply for TU Graz ATCOLD Scholarships 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Submit an official application for the Master’s program in “Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering” at TU Graz during the open window (starting Oct 15).
- Automatic Evaluation: The scholarship committee reviews applicants based on their previous academic institution (must be outside TU Graz) and their stated research interests.
- Eligibility Assessment: Candidates are assessed based on their regional background (Africa/Asia preference) and their commitment to writing their thesis at the Institute for Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management.
- Notification of Award: Successful applicants will be notified by February 2026 regarding their scholarship status and the disbursement schedule.
Application Deadline: February 14, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the maximum value of the ATCOLD scholarship?
The scholarship provides a maximum of €17,600 for the duration of the Master’s program.
2. How is the scholarship money paid out?
Payments are made at the beginning of each semester over a maximum period of two years.
3. Which specific Master’s program is eligible?
Students must be enrolled in the Master’s program in “Geotechnical and Hydraulic Engineering” at TU Graz.
4. Can current TU Graz Bachelor’s students apply?
No, the requirement states that the applicant must have completed their Bachelor’s degree outside of TU Graz.
5. What are the “preferred regions” for this scholarship?
Preference is given to applicants from Africa and Asia.
6. Is there a specific thesis requirement?
Yes, scholars must be willing to write their Master’s thesis in the field of hydraulic engineering at the Institute for Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management at TU Graz.
7. When does the application period start?
The application window opens on 15 October 2025.
8. Does the scholarship cover PhD studies?
No, this specific ATCOLD funding is designated for Master’s students only.
9. What are the additional benefits besides money?
Scholars receive individual mentoring and consultation from academic staff members at TU Graz.
10. What role does ATCOLD play in the energy transition?
ATCOLD supports the development of dams and reservoirs, which are essential for storing energy from volatile renewable sources like wind and solar power.
