Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026/2027: Guide for Sub-Saharan African Researchers

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 for that. This program provides 1- to 3-month research visits at top universities for scholars from higher education institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Program Overview

The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026/2027 targets early-career researchers who want to build on their current projects. During the visit, you will work with scientists and institutions in Europe to strengthen ties between Africa and Europe. The goal is to help you continue research linked to your home institution while creating lasting academic partnerships. Female candidates get priority, which makes this a strong option for women in research.

Funding comes from the host universities themselves, and the Coimbra Group Office handles applications. Stays last up to three months, giving you focused time to collaborate without a long commitment.

Participating Universities

Several universities from the Coimbra Group join this program for 2026/2027. Each has its own rules, so check the 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 read the “Remarks” section on each university’s page.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, you must meet every requirement. First, you need to be born on or after January 1, 1981. You must live in and hold nationality from a Sub-Saharan African country. If you already study or live in Europe, you do not qualify.

You should work as academic staff at a university or similar institution in Sub-Saharan Africa. A doctoral degree or postdoctoral status is preferred but not always required. All applications go through the Coimbra Group’s online system, and you can only apply to one university.

Everything must be in English. Most important, you need an acceptance letter from a supervisor at the host university.

How to Apply

Start by visiting the Coimbra Group website at www.coimbra-group.eu/activities/scholarships. The deadline is May 10, 2026, at midnight Brussels time. Follow these steps:

Pick one host university and review its specific conditions.
Find a supervisor there through the university website or contact email. The Coimbra Group Office does not help with this.
Get the supervisor’s name, contact details, and a letter or email from them. It must confirm they will supervise your research stay.
Fill out the online form with that info and upload the acceptance letter.

No other documents are needed now, but the host might ask for more later. Submit only one application, or it will be rejected.

After applying, expect an email confirmation within two weeks. If you hear nothing by May 24, 2026, contact [email protected].

Key Tips for Success

Contact supervisors early, as they must agree before you apply. Tailor your research plan to match their expertise. Since female applicants are prioritized, highlight any relevant experience. Check the official page for updates: Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme. This program opens doors for real collaboration, so prepare a strong case tied to your home institution’s work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026/2027?

Early-career researchers born on or after January 1, 1981, holding nationality from a Sub-Saharan African country and working at a higher education institution there qualify. You need a doctoral degree or postdoctoral status preferred, and cannot live or study in Europe.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is May 10, 2026, at midnight Brussels time. Submit your application through the online system by then.

Which universities participate in the program?

Universities include Würzburg (Germany), Barcelona (Spain), Coimbra (Portugal), and others like Granada, Padova, and Salamanca. Check each one’s page for specific country restrictions.

Do I need a letter from a supervisor to apply?

Yes, you must contact a supervisor at your chosen host university and get their acceptance letter or email confirming they will supervise your research stay before applying.