CICOPS Scholarships 2026, offered by the University of Pavia and EDiSU (Institute of the Right to University Studies), aim to promote international cooperation and academic exchange with scholars from Developing Countries. These fully funded scholarships are intended for short-term research collaboration and support junior and senior researchers affiliated with universities or international institutions focused on development studies.
Each year, six scholarships are awarded to visiting scholars for a 4 to 12-week research stay at the University of Pavia, Italy. These stays must fall between January 12 – July 24, 2026, or September 7 – December 18, 2026. The program provides a unique opportunity for scholars to engage in collaborative research, gain access to advanced academic facilities, and build lasting partnerships in an international setting.
Scholarship Benefits
CICOPS Scholarships 2026 provide a comprehensive support package to ensure a productive and stress-free research stay. Benefits include:
- Travel Costs: Round-trip economy class flight tickets are booked by the University of Pavia.
- Accommodation: Single room accommodation at a University College in Pavia is arranged by EDiSU.
- Meals: Scholars receive meal cards for use at university canteens.
- Weekly Allowance: A €150.00 (gross) weekly contribution is provided to cover incidental expenses.
- Health Insurance: The scholarship includes both health and personal accident insurance for the duration of the stay.
- Research Facilities Access: Scholars will have access to libraries, laboratories, and other academic facilities at their host department.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the CICOPS Scholarships 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Professional Experience: At least two years of teaching experience or involvement with international organizations or institutions.
- Institutional Affiliation: Must be affiliated with a university or research center in a developing country.
- Research Focus: The research proposal must align with development studies and aim for short-term collaboration.
- Doctoral Status: Applicants enrolled in a Doctoral or Postgraduate course in Italy are not eligible.
- Letter of Invitation: Applicants must obtain an invitation letter from a professor or researcher at the University of Pavia.
- Document Naming Format: CV and invitation letter must be correctly named (e.g., Surname_Name_CV).
Application Process
To apply for the CICOPS Scholarships 2026, follow these steps:
- Contact a Supervisor: Begin by identifying and reaching out to a professor or researcher at the University of Pavia whose academic interests align with your proposed research. Discuss the possibility of collaboration and request their support.
- Obtain an Invitation Letter: After establishing contact, secure an official invitation letter from your prospective host at the University of Pavia. This letter is a mandatory component of your application.
- Access the Online Application Form: Visit the official CICOPS website to access the application form: http://cicops.unipv.it/cicops-scholarships/
- Complete the Application Form: Fill out the form with accurate and complete information. Applications must be submitted only after receiving the invitation letter.
- Upload Required Documents: Submit your Curriculum Vitae and Invitation Letter through the online form. Ensure that each file is named correctly according to the format:
Surname_Name_CVandSurname_Name_Letter.
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Required Documents
When applying for the CICOPS Scholarships 2026, applicants must upload the following documents through the online application form:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV):
A detailed CV, preferably in European format, including a list of publications and academic achievements. File naming format:Surname_Name_CV - Invitation Letter:
An official invitation letter from a professor or researcher at the University of Pavia with whom you intend to collaborate. This must be obtained before submitting your application. File naming format:Surname_Name_Letter
Selection Process
The selection process for the CICOPS Scholarships is conducted by a committee composed of the CICOPS President and two members designated by the Rector. Selection is based on the following criteria:
- Scientific Relevance: Importance and quality of the proposed research, especially when it aligns with ongoing projects at the University of Pavia.
- Academic Merit: Strength and relevance of the applicant’s curriculum vitae and research background.
- Geographic and Departmental Balance: A fair distribution of awards across different regions and university departments.
Priority will be given to:
- Scholars from lower-income economies as defined by the World Bank.
- Applicants affiliated with institutions that have existing cooperation agreements with the University of Pavia.
- Candidates formally introduced by Honorary Consuls or members of UCOI/UCOIM with ties to the University.
Scholarship Duration
The CICOPS Scholarships 2026 support short-term research visits for a period of 4 to 12 weeks, during one of the following timeframes:
- January 12 – July 24, 2026
- September 7 – December 18, 2026
Application Deadline
The application deadline for the CICOPS Scholarships 2026 is May 31, 2025
