Table of Contents
Applications are now open for the fully funded Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2025 for international research students


The Coimbra Group Scholarship Programme 2025 offers short-term research visits (1 to 3 months) for young African researchers from Sub-Saharan African universities. This program enables scholars to conduct research in Europe, establish academic connections, and enhance their research expertise.
Join our Telegram Channel for Updates
This fully funded scholarship is sponsored by Coimbra Group member universities across Europe, providing scholars with the opportunity to engage in advanced research while receiving financial support for their stay.
Scholarship Benefits
The Coimbra Group Universities provide full financial support for the selected African scholars, covering:
- Research Stay – Fully funded visit (1 to 3 months) at a Coimbra Group university.
- Travel Costs – Round-trip airfare to and from the host university.
- Accommodation & Living Allowance – Covers housing, food, and daily expenses.
- Research Facilities Access – Full use of university libraries, labs, and resources.
- Networking & Collaboration – Opportunity to establish academic partnerships in Europe.
Participating Coimbra Group Universities
Scholars can apply for a research stay at one of the following prestigious European universities:
- Romania: Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi
- Spain: University of Barcelona, University of Granada, University of Salamanca
- Norway: University of Bergen
- Portugal: University of Coimbra
- Germany: University of Cologne, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Heidelberg
- University, University of Würzburg
- Austria: University of Graz
- Netherlands: University of Groningen
- Turkey: Istanbul University
- Poland: Jagiellonian University in Krakow
- Italy: University of Padova, University of Pavia, University of Siena
- France: University of Poitiers
- Czech Republic: Charles University in Prague
- Finland: University of Turku
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Coimbra Group Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be Born on or After January 1, 1980 – Applicants must be 45 years old or younger.
- Be a Citizen & Resident of a Sub-Saharan African Country – The program is exclusive to African scholars.
- Be a Staff Member of a University in Sub-Saharan Africa – Must be currently employed at a higher education institution.
- Preferably Hold a PhD/Postdoctoral Position – PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers will be prioritized.
- Obtain an Acceptance Letter from a Supervisor at the Host University – This document is mandatory.
- Submit the Application in English – All application materials must be in English.
- Apply for One University Only – Multiple applications will be disqualified.
Guideline for Applications
Step 1: Find a Host University & Research Supervisor
- Choose one university from the list of participating Coimbra Group universities.
- Contact a potential research supervisor at the host university.
- Request an Acceptance Letter confirming your research project and supervision.
- Without an acceptance letter, your application will be rejected.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Submit your application through the Coimbra Group website: www.coimbra-group.eu/activities/scholarships
- Fill in all required details in English.
- Upload your Acceptance Letter from the host supervisor.
Step 3: Await Confirmation & Selection Process
- You will receive a confirmation email from the Coimbra Group Office within two weeks of submission.
- If you do not receive confirmation, contact office@coimbra-group.eu by April 14, 2025.
- The final selection is made by the host universities, and results will be announced by June 2025.
Selection Process
- The Coimbra Group Office will review applications and ensure eligibility.
- The final decision is made by the host university based on:
- Research Proposal Quality
- Academic Background & Experience
- Potential for Collaboration
Note: Female researchers are strongly encouraged to apply and will be prioritized.
Obligations of Scholarship Recipients
Selected scholars must:
- Follow all visa & insurance requirements of the host country.
- Submit an official acceptance letter to the Coimbra Group Office.
- Acknowledge the Coimbra Group Scholarship in any research publications.
- Coordinate travel, accommodation, and research details with the host university.
Application Deadline: March 31, 2025. (Midnight Brussels Time)