Table of Contents
Applications are now open for the fully funded CICOPS Scholarship Programme 2026 for developing countries
Are you an academic professional or researcher from a developing country seeking fully funded research fellowships in Europe? Are you passionate about enhancing global knowledge and building long-term academic mobility programs? The University of Pavia, in collaboration with EDiSU (Institute of the Right to University Studies), is excited to announce the 2026 CICOPS Scholarships, created to promote international cooperation in education and research between Italy and universities in developing countries.
Join our Telegram Channel for Updates
What Is the CICOPS Scholarship?
The CICOPS (Center for International Cooperation and Development) initiative, launched in 1984, reflects the University of Pavia’s long-standing commitment to higher education opportunities for low-income countries. By fostering strong academic bonds with emerging and developing nations, CICOPS contributes directly to global knowledge exchange and institutional growth.
In 2026, the University will offer five funded scholarships to visiting scholars from low-income, lower-middle-income, and upper-middle-income economies, as classified by the World Bank. These international research fellowships provide a short-term academic residency of 4 to 12 weeks in one of Italy’s most esteemed learning environments.
CICOPS Mission: Advancing Global Development Through Academic Collaboration
The core vision of CICOPS is to support human capital development, promote educational diplomacy, and strengthen the capacity of higher education institutions in the Global South. This mission is in alignment with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to quality education, innovation, and global partnerships.
Through this academic mobility initiative, the University of Pavia fosters partnerships with scholars from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and other regions, providing them with the tools and networks to effect meaningful change in their communities and professional fields.
Scholarship Benefits: What’s Included?
Each successful applicant will receive a comprehensive scholarship package that eliminates common barriers to international academic travel. The CICOPS visiting scholar program offers:
- Round-trip international airfare
- Free accommodation and meal coverage
- A weekly financial contribution of €150 (gross) to cover personal expenses
- Health insurance coverage for the entire duration of the stay
Who Is Eligible for the 2026 CICOPS Scholarships?
This research fellowship program is open to dedicated academic professionals and development practitioners from developing economies. To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have a minimum of two years’ experience in university-level teaching or working with international development organizations, NGOs, or research institutes
- Be affiliated with a recognized university, research center, or international institution in a developing country
- Demonstrate a strong academic interest in development studies, public policy, technology transfer, healthcare systems, environmental research, or education reform
Note: Individuals currently enrolled in doctoral or postgraduate programs at Italian universities are not eligible to apply.
The CICOPS program supports academic exchange initiatives by welcoming both junior and senior researchers who are eager to engage in short-term, impactful research at the University of Pavia.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit a complete online application, including the following materials:
1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Format: Preferably in EUROPASS format
- Must include an updated list of peer-reviewed publications
- File Name Format:
Surname_Name_CV
2. Letter of Invitation
- Issued by a faculty member or researcher at the University of Pavia
- Confirms collaboration on a specific research proposal
- File Name Format:
Surname_Name_Letter
Important Notes:
- Applications without a properly named CV and invitation letter will be disqualified.
- Be sure to obtain the letter of acceptance from your academic host before submitting your application.
- Incomplete or incorrect submissions will not be considered.
How to Craft a Winning Application (Using the EEDA Strategy)
To increase your chances of receiving this prestigious award, it’s important to align your submission with the EEDA framework: Experience, Expertise, Development Potential, and Alignment.
- Experience: Emphasize your work in higher education, research programs, or development-oriented NGOs.
- Expertise: Highlight your contributions to development-focused disciplines, such as sustainable development, climate policy, or education technology.
- Development Potential: Showcase how your work addresses local or regional challenges in your country.
- Alignment: Connect your academic goals with the University of Pavia’s global mission and the CICOPS program’s focus on knowledge transfer and sustainable growth.
By demonstrating your alignment with these values, your application becomes impactful.
Why the University of Pavia?
The University of Pavia is a prestigious Italian institution with centuries of academic excellence, dating back to 1361. It offers:
- An interdisciplinary research ecosystem
- Collaboration with some of Europe’s leading academics
- A commitment to equity, global education, and development
- A culturally rich setting close to Milan, with easy access to Europe’s academic and economic hubs
For scholars interested in international partnerships, joint publications, and cross-cultural academic experiences, Pavia provides the perfect platform to grow your career and contribute meaningfully to global scholarship.
Recommendations:
- Begin outreach early to potential host faculty at Pavia.
- Tailor your CV to highlight development-oriented experience.
- Draft a compelling invitation letter that reflects mutual research goals.
- Avoid submitting until your application is complete and documents are correctly labeled.
Application Deadline: May 31, 2025.
