UNESCO/Poland Fellowships 2026-2027: Fully Funded Archaeology Training in Poland

Imagine advancing your career in archaeology or cultural heritage while studying in Poland. The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation 2026-2027 offer a fully funded chance for young professionals from select developing countries. This nine-month program at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań combines classroom learning with hands-on fieldwork to build skills in heritage preservation.

Program Overview

The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation started under UNESCO’s fellowship efforts. It partners with the Polish National Commission for UNESCO and the Faculty of Archaeology at Adam Mickiewicz University. The goal is to train people in archaeological research and cultural heritage protection. Seven spots are open for the 2026-2027 group, running from October 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. It promotes teamwork across cultures and raises standards in these fields.

Who Can Apply? Eligibility Details

This fellowship targets young experts from specific UNESCO member states. Check if your country qualifies before starting.

Eligible Countries

• Africa and Middle East: Algeria, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Egypt, Ghana, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Republic of South Africa.
• Americas: Bolivia, Cuba, Ecuador, Jamaica, Peru.
• Asia and Eurasia: Georgia, Iran, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Uzbekistan.
• Europe and others: Moldova.

These areas often lack resources for archaeological work, especially after conflicts.

Requirements

Applicants need a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in archaeology, heritage conservation, or a related field. They must read and write English well; speaking it helps too. Age limit is 40 or younger when applying. These rules prepare candidates for the intense training.

What the Fellowship Includes

Fellows join a nine-month program at Adam Mickiewicz University. It mixes theory and practice.

Training Breakdown

• Main courses on modern archaeological methods.
• Workshops on conservation techniques and site work.
• Research projects and possible digs with expert guidance.

This setup builds skills for global heritage projects and improves teamwork across borders.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Process

Applications go through your country’s National Commission for UNESCO, not directly to UNESCO. Start early.

Step 1: Read the Documents

Get the Terms and Conditions, application form, and study details from official sources.

Step 2: Reach Your National Commission

They handle nominations. Find contacts on UNESCO’s site.

Step 3: Gather Your Materials

All in English:

1. Full application form (four pages).
2. Passport photo.
3. Passport scan.
4. Degree certificates.
5. English language proof (if needed).
6. Two recommendation letters.

Send everything to your National Commission.

Step 4: Submission Deadline

Commissions forward endorsed applications to UNESCO by May 15, 2026. Late ones are not reviewed.

Apply via the official link: UNESCO fellowships page.

Benefits for Selected Fellows

The program covers most costs to let you focus on learning.

From the University

• Free tuition for nine months.
• Use of libraries and facilities.
• Monthly stipend: 2,200 PLN for Master’s holders, 1,800 PLN for Bachelor’s.
• One-time arrival payment for settling in or events.

Budget this for daily life in Poland.

From UNESCO

• Round-trip travel.
• Health insurance (if healthy).
• $120 pocket money.

Visa and Other Practical Tips

Get a Polish visa before leaving if your country has an embassy there. Use the nearest one otherwise. You pay for visa and passport fees yourself.

Why Pursue This Opportunity

The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation boost your career with top skills and networks. It connects heritage leaders from different regions for future projects. For those passionate about preservation, it marks a key step forward. Deadline: May 15, 2026. More info at UNESCO legal affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowships?

Young professionals under 40 from select developing countries in Africa, Middle East, Americas, Asia, and Europe with a Bachelor’s or Master’s in archaeology or related fields and good English skills.

What does the fellowship program include?

It offers nine months of training at Adam Mickiewicz University with courses, workshops, research, free tuition, monthly stipend, travel, insurance, and pocket money.

How do I apply for this fellowship?

Contact your country’s National Commission for UNESCO, submit the application form, photo, passport, degrees, and recommendations in English; they forward it to UNESCO.

What is the application deadline?

National Commissions must send endorsed applications to UNESCO by May 15, 2026; the program starts October 1, 2026.