The Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025 is now open for applications. Since its launch in 2008, this initiative has supported young researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa by offering short-term research stays (1 to 3 months) at prestigious Coimbra Group universities in Europe.
This fully funded academic exchange is designed to strengthen international research collaboration, broaden professional networks, and enhance the careers of African scholars. The program is an excellent opportunity to gain access to European research facilities, engage with experienced supervisors, and develop new perspectives in your academic field.
In this article, you will find details about the program, eligibility criteria, benefits, participating universities, and a step-by-step application guide.
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Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025 Summary
- Host Institutions: Coimbra Group Universities in Europe
- Programme Type: Short Stay Research Fellowship
- Eligible Region: Sub-Saharan Africa
- Duration: 1 to 3 months
- Eligible Status: Doctoral, postdoctoral, or equivalent researchers
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2025 (midnight, Brussels time)
About the Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025
The Coimbra Group of Universities is a network of long-established European universities committed to promoting academic and cultural exchange. Through this scholarship, young researchers from Sub-Saharan Africa can temporarily join a Coimbra Group university to conduct part of their research project.
The program is financially supported by participating universities, while the Coimbra Group Office manages applications and administration.
Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025 Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship 2025, applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Age: Born on or after 1 January 1980.
- Nationality & Residence: Must be a national and current resident of a Sub-Saharan African country.
- Academic Status: Must be a current staff member of a university or equivalent higher education institution in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Educational Level: Preferably doctoral/postdoctoral or equivalent.
- Acceptance Letter: Must possess a letter or email of acceptance from the host supervisor/tutor at the chosen Coimbra Group university (mandatory).
- Application: Must use the Coimbra Group Office’s electronic application system.
- University Selection: Apply to only one university (multiple applications are invalid).
- Language: All applications must be submitted in English.
Note: Some universities may restrict applications to certain Sub-Saharan countries. Always check the “Remarks” section in the official guidelines of your chosen host institution.
Benefits of the Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025
- Short-term research stay (1–3 months) at a top Coimbra Group university.
- Access to academic resources and facilities of the host institution.
- Collaboration opportunities with European professors and researchers.
- Exposure to diverse cultures and research methodologies.
- Fully supported financially by the host university (details vary by institution).
Participating Universities for 2025
The following Coimbra Group universities are offering placements in the 2025 edition:
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iaşi (Romania)
- University of Barcelona (Spain)
- University of Bergen (Norway)
- University of Coimbra (Portugal)
- University of Cologne (Germany)
- University of Granada (Spain)
- University of Graz (Austria)
- University of Groningen (The Netherlands)
- Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Germany)
- Heidelberg University (Germany)
- Istanbul University (Turkey)
- Jagiellonian University in Krakow (Poland)
- University of Padova (Italy)
- University of Pavia (Italy)
- University of Poitiers (France)
- Charles University in Prague (Czech Republic)
- University of Salamanca (Spain)
- University of Siena (Italy)
- University of Turku (Finland)
- University of Würzburg (Germany)
How to Apply for the Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025
- Select your preferred university from the participating Coimbra Group institutions.
- Contact a supervisor/tutor at the host institution and request an acceptance letter (mandatory).
- Prepare your application documents (CV, research plan, acceptance letter, etc.).
- Apply via the Coimbra Group Office’s online system (English only).
- Submit before the deadline: 31 March 2025 at midnight (Brussels time).
FAQs
1. Can I apply to more than one university?
No. Applicants may only apply to one university. Multiple applications will be disqualified.
2. Is funding fully covered?
Yes. All scholarships are financially supported by the participating universities. However, the specific benefits (accommodation, stipends, etc.) may vary by institution.
3. What is the duration of the stay?
Research stays are short-term, lasting between 1 and 3 months.
4. What language will be used?
In most universities, the primary language is that of the host country, but many institutions allow the use of English as the working language.
5. Do I need to be a PhD holder to apply?
Not necessarily. While doctoral and postdoctoral researchers are preferred, equivalent academic staff members from African universities may also be considered.
Final Thoughts
The Coimbra Group Short Stay Scholarship Programme 2025 is an excellent chance for young African researchers to gain international exposure, collaborate with world-class universities, and advance their academic careers.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, make sure to secure your acceptance letter early and prepare your application carefully. With opportunities across 20 top European universities, this program could be the stepping stone to your next academic breakthrough.
Deadline: 31 March 2025 (Brussels time).
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