The Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026, offered by the renowned Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) in Uppsala, Sweden, presents a fully funded, prestigious opportunity for master’s students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers. This scholarship is tailored for academics affiliated with universities or research centers in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland, engaging in Africa-oriented studies within the social sciences and humanities. The application deadline for this opportunity is October 12, 2025.
University/Institution Details
The Nordic Scholarship Programme is hosted by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), a Swedish government agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. NAI serves as a hub for research, documentation, and information on contemporary Africa and Nordic countries. It provides a vibrant academic environment, known for independent and policy-related research that supports informed decision-making on African affairs.
Study Areas & Available Programs
Eligible applicants must be engaged in Africa-focused research within the broad disciplines of social sciences and humanities. This includes a wide array of study areas such as anthropology, sociology, political science, history, development studies, and cultural studies related to Africa.
Nordic Scholarship Programme Benefits
The Nordic Scholarship Programme offers several comprehensive benefits:
- Fully covered travel expenses, including the least expensive economy airfare between your residence in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland and Uppsala, Sweden.
- One month of research stay at NAI, with access to a shared workspace including a desk and computer.
- Free centrally located accommodation in Uppsala for the duration of the scholarship.
- A daily subsistence allowance of SEK 400 (approximately 40-45 USD) to cover living expenses.
- Free photocopying up to 1,000 copies to support research documentation.
Benefits Not Included
Applicants should note that the scholarship does not cover:
- Health care insurance or any personal insurance, which applicants must secure independently.
- Other incidental or personal expenses beyond the stated allowances.
Eligibility Criteria for Nordic Scholarship Programme
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a master’s student, PhD candidate, or postdoctoral researcher in social sciences or humanities.
- Be affiliated with a university or research center in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland regardless of nationality.
- Demonstrate an Africa-oriented research focus or study program.
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must prepare and submit:
- A completed online application form via the NAI official website.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Research proposal or a description of the Africa-oriented study/research.
- Proof of affiliation with a Nordic university or research center.
- Other supporting documents as specified by the application guidelines.
Nordic Scholarship Programme Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Visit the Nordic Africa Institute’s official website to access the Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026 application portal.
- Complete the online application form carefully.
- Attach all required documents, including CV, research proposal, and proof of affiliation.
- Review all details and submit the application before the deadline: October 12, 2025.
- Wait for the scholarship committee’s decision and follow further instructions if selected.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Clearly emphasize the Africa-oriented nature of your research or study.
- Demonstrate the relevance of your work to contemporary African issues.
- Ensure all documents are complete and submitted on time.
- Highlight how the scholarship will enhance your research and contribute to Nordic-African academic collaboration.
- Seek feedback on your research proposal or CV from mentors or colleagues before submission.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
The scholarship provides a daily subsistence allowance equivalent to about 40-45 USD, which can be used for food, local travel, and personal expenses. This amount is generally sufficient for living modestly in Uppsala, Sweden. The scholarship covers accommodation and workspace costs.
Why Choose This Scholarship?
- Fully funded: covers travel, accommodation, workspace, and living expenses.
- Prestigious association with the Nordic Africa Institute.
- Opportunity to access unique and extensive library resources dedicated to contemporary Africa.
- Platform for networking with leading Nordic and African researchers.
- Enhances capacity building in Africa-focused studies with cross-regional collaborations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who can apply for the Nordic Scholarship Programme?
A: Master’s students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers affiliated with a university or research center in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland, conducting Africa-oriented research.
Q: What is the duration of the scholarship stay?
A: The scholarship covers a one-month research visit at the Nordic Africa Institute in Uppsala.
Q: When is the application deadline?
A: October 12, 2025.
Q: Does the scholarship cover health insurance?
A: No, health insurance and other personal insurances are not included in the scholarship.
Q: How do I apply?
A: Applications must be submitted online via the Nordic Africa Institute’s official website before the deadline.
The Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026 offers a remarkable chance for researchers based in the Nordic countries to deepen their Africa-related research in a fully funded and resource-rich environment. Scholars benefit not only financially but academically, with the support of one of Europe’s leading institutes specializing in African studies. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to enhance their academic profile, build international networks, and contribute to the production of knowledge about Africa.