Are you an early-career researcher from Sub-Saharan Africa looking to advance your work through a short stay in Europe? The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 offers a great chance. This program provides 1- to 3-month research visits at top European universities for scholars from higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Program Overview
The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 targets early-career researchers. It helps them continue projects linked to their home institutions while building ties with European scientists. Participating universities fund the scholarships, and the Coimbra Group Office handles applications. Women are encouraged to apply and will get priority.
These visits focus on research collaboration. Scholars work under supervision at the host university. The goal is to strengthen academic links between Africa and Europe.
Participating Universities
Several Coimbra Group universities join this program for 2026. Each has its own conditions, so check details for your chosen host. Here is the full list:
- University of Würzburg (Germany)
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi (Romania)
- University of Barcelona (Spain)
- University of Bergen (Norway)
- University of Coimbra (Portugal)
- University of Cologne (Germany)
- University of Granada (Spain)
- University of Graz (Austria)
- University of Groningen (The Netherlands)
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
- Heidelberg University (Germany)
- Istanbul University (Turkey)
- Jagiellonian University in Krakow (Poland)
- University of Padova (Italy)
- University of Pavia (Italy)
- University of Poitiers (France)
- University of Salamanca (Spain)
- University of Siena (Italy)
Some universities limit spots to researchers from certain Sub-Saharan African countries. Always review the “Remarks” section on each university’s page.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must meet all these rules:
- Born on or after January 1, 1981.
- Hold nationality and current residence in a Sub-Saharan African country. Those already in Europe for study or living do not qualify.
- Work as academic staff at a university or similar institution in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Preferably have a doctoral degree, postdoctoral status, or equal experience.
- Secure an acceptance letter from a supervisor at the host university.
You can submit only one application to one university. All materials must be in English. Multiple applications get rejected.
Application Process
Start early to meet the deadline. Follow these steps:
- Visit the Coimbra Group website at www.coimbra-group.eu/activities/scholarships.
- Review conditions for your chosen university.
- Find a supervisor at that university through their website or contact email. The Coimbra Group Office does not help with this.
- Contact the supervisor and get their name, details, and an acceptance letter. The letter must confirm they will supervise your research stay.
- Fill out the online form with supervisor info and upload the letter.
No other documents are needed now, but universities might ask for more later. Applications without the acceptance letter will not move forward.
Key Dates and Next Steps
Submit by midnight Brussels time on May 10, 2026. You will get an email confirmation within two weeks. If not, contact [email protected] by May 24, 2026.
For full details, check the official page: https://www.coimbra-group.eu/scholarships/sub-saharan-africa-grant-information/. Act fast to connect with a supervisor and prepare your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026/2027?
Early-career researchers born on or after January 1, 1981, with nationality and residence in Sub-Saharan Africa, working at a local university, and holding a doctoral degree or equivalent experience qualify.
Which universities participate in the program?
Universities like University of Würzburg (Germany), University of Barcelona (Spain), University of Coimbra (Portugal), and others from the Coimbra Group list take part; check each for specific country limits.
What is needed to apply?
You need an acceptance letter from a supervisor at your chosen host university; submit the online form on the Coimbra Group website with that letter by the deadline.
When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by midnight Brussels time on May 10, 2026; expect confirmation email within two weeks.
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