The Coimbra Group Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africa 2026 is a prestigious short-term research opportunity designed for early-career academics and researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa. This program provides selected candidates with the chance to undertake a research stay at one of the participating universities in Europe.
Unlike traditional degree scholarships, this opportunity focuses on strengthening research collaboration, academic exchange, and professional development. It enables scholars to work closely with European researchers, access advanced facilities, and contribute to ongoing academic projects within their field of expertise.
About the Coimbra Group Scholarship Program
The Coimbra Group is an association of leading European universities committed to fostering academic collaboration and cultural exchange. Through this scholarship program, member universities offer fully or partially funded short-term research visits to scholars from Sub-Saharan Africa.
The program has been running for several years and continues to support researchers in building international partnerships. Selected candidates are hosted by participating universities, where they carry out research aligned with their current academic work.
The duration of the research stay typically ranges from 1 to 3 months, depending on the host institution and the specific research project.
Purpose of the Scholarship
The main goal of the Coimbra Group Scholarship is to enhance research capacity in Sub-Saharan Africa by promoting collaboration with European institutions.
The program aims to:
- Support ongoing research projects of African scholars
- Facilitate knowledge exchange between African and European universities
- Strengthen academic and research networks
- Encourage long-term institutional collaboration
By focusing on short-term research mobility, the program helps scholars gain international exposure while continuing their work at their home institutions.
Benefits of the Scholarship
The benefits of the Coimbra Group Scholarship vary depending on the host university, but generally include financial support to cover essential expenses during the research stay.
Common benefits include:
- Monthly stipend to cover living expenses
- Travel allowance or partial travel support
- Accommodation support (in some universities)
- Access to research facilities, libraries, and academic resources
Some universities provide stipends that typically range between €750 and €1,800 per month, depending on the institution and funding structure. While not all universities offer the same level of financial support, the scholarship is designed to ensure that participants can focus on their research activities during their stay.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Coimbra Group Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be born on or after January 1, 1980
- Be a national and current resident of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Be a staff member of a university or higher education institution
- Be of doctoral, postdoctoral, or equivalent academic status
- Obtain a letter of acceptance from a supervisor at a participating university
- Submit the application in English
- Apply to only one university
A key requirement is securing a host supervisor before applying. Applicants must independently contact a professor or researcher at a participating university and obtain confirmation of acceptance.
Eligible Fields / Programmes
The Coimbra Group Scholarship is open to a wide range of academic disciplines. Most participating universities accept applications from all fields of study, allowing flexibility for applicants from diverse academic backgrounds.
However, some institutions may prioritize specific research areas based on their expertise. Applicants are encouraged to align their research proposals with the strengths of their chosen host university.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
Applying for the Coimbra Group Scholarship requires careful planning and preparation, particularly in securing a host supervisor.
Follow these steps:
- Identify a participating university
- Contact a potential academic supervisor
- Obtain a letter or email of acceptance
- Prepare your research proposal and application materials
- Complete the online application form
- Submit your application before the deadline
Applicants should ensure that all required information is complete, as incomplete applications are typically not considered.
Required Documents
Applicants are generally required to submit the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Letter of acceptance from host supervisor (mandatory)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal or work plan
Additional documents may be requested depending on the host university’s requirements.
Application Deadline
- Application Deadline: 10 May 2026 (Brussels time)
Applicants are strongly advised to begin preparations early, especially since securing a host supervisor and acceptance letter can take time.
Selection Process
The selection process is conducted in two main stages:
Administrative Screening
Applications are first reviewed to ensure they meet all eligibility requirements and include the necessary documentation.
University-Level Evaluation
Participating universities then assess eligible candidates based on:
- Academic qualifications and research experience
- Quality and relevance of the research proposal
- Alignment with institutional research priorities
- Potential for future collaboration
Final selection decisions are made by the host universities, and successful applicants are notified after the evaluation process is completed.
Conclusion
The Coimbra Group Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africa 2026 offers a valuable opportunity for researchers and academics to expand their knowledge, build international collaborations, and enhance their professional development. Through short-term research stays in Europe, participants gain access to advanced academic resources and contribute to meaningful research initiatives.
For scholars looking to strengthen their research capacity and establish global academic connections, this program provides a practical and impactful pathway. Applicants are encouraged to prepare early, secure a strong host supervisor, and submit a well-structured application before the deadline to increase their chances of success.
Apply Here
Link: https://www.coimbra-group.eu/2026-scholarship-programme-for-africa/
