Accepting applications Fully Funded

Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026 for early-career researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa

Last updated Apr 3, 2026

Deadline

2026-05-10

Country

Romania, Spain, Norway, Portugal, Germany, Austria, The Netherlands, Turkey, Poland, Italy, France

Level

postdoc

Organization

Coimbra Group

Field

Various academic disciplines

Funding

fully funded

Overview

The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme provides short-term research visits (1–3 months) for early-career researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa to conduct research at participating European universities. The goal is to support ongoing research and foster academic collaboration between African and European institutions.

Coverage

Funding is provided by the participating Coimbra Group member universities. Specific financial details vary by host institution; applicants should review the conditions for their chosen university.

Eligibility

Applicants must be nationals and current residents of a Sub-Saharan African country (Ethiopia is eligible). Candidates must be academic staff members at a higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa, born on or after January 1, 1981. Candidates already residing or studying in Europe are ineligible. Female candidates are prioritized.

Requirements

Applicants must hold a doctoral/postdoctoral or equivalent academic status. A mandatory requirement is to secure an acceptance letter or email from a research supervisor at the chosen host university confirming their willingness to supervise the work during the stay. Applications must be submitted in English.

How to apply

1. Identify a host university from the participating list on the official website. 2. Contact a potential supervisor at that university to obtain an acceptance letter. 3. Submit the application through the Coimbra Group electronic application portal, including the supervisor's acceptance letter. 4. Only one application per candidate is permitted.

Notes

Applicants must carefully check the specific conditions and research fields offered by each participating university, as these vary significantly.

Source & Verification

Host organization: Coimbra Group

Original source: OpportunityDesk

Official application page: https://www.coimbra-group.eu/scholarships/sub-saharan-africa-grant-information/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.