For students and partners

Support and grants: modest help, thoughtfully given.

If you are a student in need of study literature, a socially disadvantaged student facing an unexpected cost, or a partner who would like to contribute to Czech scientific culture — this page describes how to work with us.

For students

Applying for a study-literature grant

Our study-literature grants are small, one-time contributions to help you buy books, reference works, and journal subscriptions that are essential for your course of study.

Who can apply

Students enrolled at a Czech university, at any level (Bc., Mgr., PhD.).
Fields of study within the natural sciences, mathematics, medicine, and the philosophy or history of science.
Applications from other faculties are considered on a case-by-case basis, provided the requested materials are clearly connected to a research project or thesis.

What we support

Textbooks and reference works listed in a course syllabus.
Subscriptions to specialist journals for a defined period.
Essential digital resources tied to a specific course or thesis.

How to apply

Write to info@universeendowment.org with the subject line “Grant application — study literature”.
Attach a short letter (one page is enough) describing yourself, your course of study, and why you are asking.
Include a specific list of the materials you would like to purchase, with prices and, where possible, links.
Attach either a study confirmation from your faculty or a link to a public record of your enrolment.

We reply to every enquiry. Please do not send original documents.

How we decide

Our review process, in plain terms.

You write to us

By e-mail, in Czech or English. A short, honest letter is more useful than a long, formal one.

We read carefully

Each application is read by at least two members of the Board, against the criteria in our statutes.

We decide

Decisions are made collectively and in writing. We often ask a short clarifying question before deciding.

We reply

Every applicant receives a written reply. Successful applicants receive support within a few weeks.

For partners

Supporting the fund

We are always glad to hear from individuals, publishers, universities, and other endowments that share our patient view of scientific culture.

Ways to contribute

Financial contributions to the endowment or to a specific programme.
In-kind support for lecture activity — venue, printing, translation.
Partnership on a specific issue or thematic series of Vesmír.
Referral of students you know to be talented and in need.

Please write to info@universeendowment.org and one of the Board members will reply personally.

Contact the fund →

Frequently asked questions

Do you support students from outside the Czech Republic?

Primarily we support students enrolled at Czech universities, in line with our founding statutes. International students studying at Czech universities are welcome to apply.

Is there a deadline?

There is no fixed deadline. Applications are considered as they arrive throughout the year.

How large are the grants?

Our grants are deliberately modest. They are designed to cover a specific, identifiable cost rather than to serve as a scholarship.

May I apply more than once?

Yes. A student who has previously received support may apply again in a later academic year, for a different specific need.

Do you accept anonymous donations?

Yes. All donations — named or anonymous — are recorded in our accounts as required by Czech law.

Have a question first?

We prefer a short e-mail exchange before a formal application. Ask us anything.