Coimbra Group Scholarship 2026 for Sub-Saharan African Researchers
Early-career researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa have a chance to advance their work in Europe. The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026 offers short visits to top universities. These stays last up to three months and help build ties between African and European scholars.
Program Overview
The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme for Early-career Researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa 2026 supports academics from higher education institutions in the region. Participants can focus on research linked to their home institution. The goal is to create lasting partnerships with European scientists and schools.
Universities in the Coimbra Group fund these scholarships. The group’s office handles applications. Visits range from one to three months, depending on the host university’s rules.
Who Can Apply?
Certain requirements apply to all applicants. You must be born on or after January 1, 1981. You need to be a national and current resident of a Sub-Saharan African country. People already living or studying in Europe do not qualify.
Applicants 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. Some host universities limit spots to researchers from specific African countries. Check the “Remarks” section on each university’s page for details.
Host Universities
Several Coimbra Group universities join this program for 2026. Each offers unique conditions for the visit. Review their pages to match your research needs and country eligibility.
Here is the full list:
- 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)
- University of Würzburg (Germany)
Application Process
The deadline for applications is May 10, 2026. Start by visiting the official Coimbra Group page for details. Submit your materials through their online system.
Prepare documents like your CV, research proposal, and proof of eligibility. Tailor your proposal to the host university’s strengths. The process is managed centrally, so follow their guidelines closely.
For full instructions, check the Coimbra Group Scholarship page. Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026?
You must be born on or after January 1, 1981, a national and resident of a Sub-Saharan African country, and work as academic staff at a university there. A doctoral degree or postdoctoral status is preferred.
What is the duration of the scholarship visits?
Visits last from one to three months, based on the host university’s rules.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is May 10, 2026.
How do I apply for this scholarship?
Visit the official Coimbra Group website, prepare your CV, research proposal, and proof of eligibility, then submit through their online system.