The Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship 2026 provides a unique opportunity for early-career researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa to conduct research at prestigious European universities. This program supports scholars in continuing their research while fostering academic and research collaborations with institutions across Europe.
The Coimbra Group is a network of long-established European multidisciplinary universities committed to academic excellence. Its member universities fund and host these short-term research visits, managed administratively by the Coimbra Group Office.
Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship Benefits
- Short-term research visits (1-3 months) at a Coimbra Group University
- Financial support varies by host university (e.g., monthly stipend, travel reimbursement, accommodation)
- Access to academic knowledge and quality research facilities
- Opportunity to establish academic and research contacts
Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Born on or after 1 January 1981
- National and current resident of a Sub-Saharan African country (not living/studying in Europe)
- Academic staff member of a university or equivalent higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Preferably hold doctoral/postdoctoral or equivalent academic status
- Obtain a mandatory acceptance letter/email from a supervisor at the host university
- Apply through the Coimbra Group electronic application process
- Submit only one application to a single university
- Submit all information in English
How to Apply for Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship?
- Download and read the call for applications 2026
- Identify and contact an academic supervisor at your chosen participating Coimbra Group University
- Obtain a letter/email of acceptance from the supervisor
- Ensure you have all required data (supervisor details, acceptance letter)
- Fill in the online registration form via the Coimbra Group application process
- Submit your complete application before the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship 2026. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply for this research opportunity in Europe.
What is the Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship?
The Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship offers early-career researchers from Sub-Saharan African universities the opportunity to spend 1 to 3 months conducting research at a participating Coimbra Group University in Europe. The program aims to support scholars in continuing research related to their work at their home institution while fostering academic collaborations.
Who is eligible to apply for this Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship?
Applicants must be born on or after 1 January 1981, be nationals and current residents of a Sub-Saharan African country, and be academic staff members of a university or equivalent higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa. They should preferably hold doctoral/postdoctoral status and must obtain an acceptance letter from a supervisor at the host university.
What financial support does the Coimbra Group Short-Term Scholarship provide?
Financial support varies by the host university. Benefits may include a monthly stipend (amounts differ per university), reimbursement of travel expenses, and sometimes accommodation or meal support. Specific details are provided in each university’s offer within the call for applications.
What is the application deadline for the 2026 edition?
According to supplementary content, the application deadline is 15 April 2026. Applicants must submit their complete application, including an acceptance letter from a host university supervisor, through the Coimbra Group electronic application process by this date.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Applicants must first contact and secure an acceptance letter from an academic supervisor at their chosen participating Coimbra Group University. Then, they must complete the online registration form via the Coimbra Group application portal, submitting all required documents, including the supervisor’s acceptance letter. Only one application per candidate is allowed.
Which universities participate in this scholarship program?
Multiple Coimbra Group universities across Europe participate, including the University of Barcelona, University of Bergen, University of Coimbra, University of Cologne, University of Granada, Heidelberg University, University of Padova, and many others. The full list with specific conditions is available in the official call for applications.
What is the duration of the research visit?
The research visits last from 1 to a maximum of 3 months. The exact dates must be agreed upon between the applicant and the academic supervisor at the host university and should take place during the 2026/2027 academic year.
Are female candidates encouraged to apply?
Yes, female candidates are explicitly encouraged to apply under this scholarship programme and will be prioritised during the selection process, as stated in the official call for applications.
Can I apply to more than one university?
No. Applicants can select only one institution and must submit only one application. Multiple applications from the same candidate will be rejected, as per the official eligibility criteria.
What happens after I submit my application?
The Coimbra Group Office conducts an administrative check to verify eligibility. The host universities then undertake the selection of candidates. Successful candidates will be contacted, and the host university may send a letter of invitation directly. All applicants are informed of the result by the Coimbra Group Office.
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