Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026: Eligibility, Hosts & How to Apply
Early-career researchers from countries around Europe’s borders now have a chance to advance their work through short stays at top universities. The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026 targets scholars from the European Neighbourhood. This program opens doors for one- to three-month research visits that build ties between institutions.
Program Overview
The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026 supports early-career researchers from higher education institutions in specific European Neighbourhood countries. These include Albania, Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Egypt, North Macedonia, Georgia, Israel, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Palestine, Russia, Serbia, Syria, Tajikistan, Tunisia, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan.
The goal is to help these researchers continue projects linked to their home institutions. At the same time, it creates partnerships with European scientists and universities. Host universities from the Coimbra Group fund the scholarships, and the group’s office handles applications.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026, applicants must meet these key requirements:
- Born on or after January 1, 1991.
- Hold nationality and current residence in one of the listed European Neighbourhood countries. People already living or studying in Europe do not qualify. Check each host university’s “Remarks” section, as some limit spots by country.
- Work as academic staff at a university or similar institution in an eligible country.
- Have postdoctoral status or equivalent. A few hosts accept doctoral students, so review the specific offer.
- Secure an acceptance letter from a supervisor at the host university. This proves they agree to guide the research stay.
These rules ensure the program reaches active researchers ready to benefit from the visit.
Participating Universities
Twelve universities from the Coimbra Group join this 2026 edition. Each offers short-term research opportunities tailored to different fields. The list includes:
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi (Romania)
- University of Barcelona (Spain)
- University of Granada (Spain)
- University of Graz (Austria)
- Heidelberg University (Germany)
- Istanbul University (Turkey)
- Jagiellonian University in Krakow (Poland)
- University of Padova (Italy)
- University of Poitiers (France)
- University of Salamanca (Spain)
- University of Siena (Italy)
- University of Würzburg (Germany)
Researchers should pick one host based on their project needs and supervisor match.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Scholars receive funding from the host university to cover their research stay, which lasts up to three months. This support allows focus on work without financial worry. The visits strengthen research skills and open doors for future collaborations across borders.
Application Process
Applications open now and close on May 10, 2026. Use the Coimbra Group’s online system. Submit just one application to a single university, as multiples get rejected. Provide all details in English, including the required supervisor acceptance letter.
Apply directly through the official page: Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme. For full details, check the grant information page. Act soon to secure your spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2026?
Early-career researchers born on or after January 1, 1991, with nationality and residence in eligible European Neighbourhood countries, working as academic staff at a local university with postdoctoral status or equivalent.
Which universities participate in the 2026 programme?
Twelve Coimbra Group universities join, including University of Barcelona, Heidelberg University, Jagiellonian University in Krakow, and University of Salamanca.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
Funding covers one- to three-month research stays at host universities, helping scholars focus on their projects and build international partnerships.
What is the application deadline and process?
Applications close on May 10, 2026; submit one online application per host university via the Coimbra Group website, including an acceptance letter from a supervisor.