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Overview of the Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026
The Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026 offers short term research visits (1–3 months) for scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa. The programme promotes academic collaboration between African researchers and European universities.
Participants conduct research related to their home institutions while building international academic partnerships.
Eligibility Criteria for Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026 Sub-Saharan Africa programme, applicants must meet all the following conditions:
- Be born on or after 1 January 1981
- Be a national and current resident of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Be a staff member of a university or higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Preferably hold a PhD or postdoctoral qualification
- Apply from outside Europe (residents in Europe are not eligible)
Some universities may limit eligibility to specific countries, so applicants must check each host university’s requirements.
Application Requirements
Applicants must follow strict submission rules:
- Apply through the official Coimbra Group online system
- Submit only one application to one university
- Write all application materials in English
- Provide complete and accurate information
- Submit a supervisor acceptance letter or email from the host university
Incomplete applications or multiple submissions lead to automatic rejection.
Supervisor Requirement (Mandatory Rule)
Each applicant must secure a supervisor at the host university before applying.
The supervisor must:
- Confirm willingness to oversee the research visit
- Provide a written acceptance letter or email
- Agree to support the applicant’s research plan
The Coimbra Group does not assist applicants in finding supervisors.
Participating Universities
Applicants can choose only one host institution from the list of participating universities, including:
- University of Barcelona
- University of Coimbra
- University of Groningen
- Heidelberg University
- University of Padova
(And other Coimbra Group member universities across Europe)
Applicants must review each university’s conditions before applying.
Scholarship Benefits and Duration
The scholarship provides:
- Short-term research visit (1–3 months)
- Access to European academic institutions
- Research collaboration opportunities
- Academic networking with international scholars
Visits take place during the 2026/2027 academic year, with exact dates agreed between the applicant and host supervisor.
Application Deadline and Selection Rules
- Apply only through the official online system
- Submit before the closing date (as stated in the official call)
- Only one application per candidate is allowed
- Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted
Female candidates receive priority consideration under the programme policy.
Important Terms of Service Rules
Applicants must:
- Follow all submission instructions carefully
- Ensure all documents are complete before applying
- Communicate directly with host university supervisors
- Accept that the Coimbra Group Office does not provide application assistance
Failure to follow these terms results in disqualification.
The Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026 Terms of Service ensure a fair and competitive selection process for African researchers seeking international academic exposure. Eligible candidates should prepare early, secure a supervisor, and submit a complete application to improve their chances of selection.
