Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026 at the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) | Fully Funded
Applications are now open for the Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026, hosted by the Nordic Africa Institute (NAI) in Uppsala, Sweden. This fully funded opportunity offers students and researchers pursuing Africa-focused studies at universities in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, or Iceland the chance to spend one month at NAI. The programme is designed to strengthen Africa-oriented research, foster academic networks, and support knowledge production across the Nordic region.
About the Nordic Africa Institute
The Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), based in Uppsala, Sweden, is a leading research center that promotes deeper understanding of modern African societies. By bridging research and policy, the institute contributes to informed decision-making and global academic collaboration. Through its scholarship programme, NAI provides young scholars and established researchers with resources to strengthen Africa-related research in social sciences and humanities.
Overview of the Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026
- Host Institution: Nordic Africa Institute (NAI), Uppsala, Sweden
- Eligible Levels: Master’s students, PhD candidates, and postdoctoral researchers
- Field of Study: Africa-oriented studies in the social sciences or humanities
- Eligible Regions: Students/researchers affiliated with universities in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, or Iceland
- Scholarship Coverage: Travel costs, free accommodation, daily subsistence allowance, research facilities
- Duration: One month residency at NAI
- Application Deadline: 12 October 2025
Why Choose the Nordic Scholarship Programme?
Unlike traditional scholarships focused on tuition funding, the NAI scholarship emphasizes short-term residency and research immersion. For one month, selected scholars gain access to the institute’s vast library, academic community, and policy networks. This enables deeper engagement with African studies while benefiting from an international research environment in Sweden. It is particularly valuable for researchers preparing their theses, dissertations, or academic publications.
Eligibility Requirements
Who Can Apply?
- You must be a master’s student, PhD candidate, or postdoctoral researcher.
- Your research must fall under social sciences or humanities with an Africa-oriented focus.
- You must be affiliated with a recognized university or research institution in Sweden, Finland, Denmark, or Iceland.
- Citizenship is not restricted. Scholars from any country can apply if affiliated with a Nordic institution.
Scholarship Benefits
What the Scholarship Covers
- Travel Costs: Round-trip travel expenses from your place of residence in the Nordic region to Uppsala, Sweden.
- Accommodation: Free centrally located housing in Uppsala for one month.
- Stipend: A daily allowance of SEK 400 per day to cover food and basic expenses (around SEK 12,000 for the full month).
- Workspace: A desk, computer, and access to printing/photocopying at the institute.
- Library Access: Full use of NAI’s extensive Africa-focused library collection.
The Purpose of the Scholarship
The scholarship’s core aim is to promote Africa-oriented knowledge production and strengthen collaboration between Nordic academic institutions. Scholars benefit from NAI’s networks, while the institute gains new perspectives from visiting researchers. This two-way exchange creates long-term academic impact across disciplines and borders.
Application Timeline
- Application Opens: September 2025
- Deadline: 12 October 2025
- Selection Period: November–December 2025
- Notification of Results: Early 2026
- Scholarship Period: Spring/Summer 2026 (one month stay)
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1 – Prepare Your Research Proposal
Your proposal should explain how your research connects to Africa-focused themes and how your stay at NAI will support your work.
Step 2 – Gather Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts or proof of current enrolment
- Letter of affiliation from your university/research institution
- Research proposal (maximum 5 pages)
- Copy of passport or national ID
Step 3 – Submit Online Application
Applications must be submitted through the NAI official application portal. Late or incomplete submissions are not accepted.
Selection Process
The selection committee reviews applications based on:
- Relevance of research to Africa-focused studies
- Academic merit and research potential
- Feasibility of project during a one-month residency
- Diversity of research areas and balance among Nordic countries
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight the specific contribution your research will make to Africa-oriented studies.
- Show how your work aligns with NAI’s mission and resources.
- Provide a clear research plan achievable within the one-month timeframe.
- Emphasize the impact on your academic career and your Nordic institution.
Why Sweden and Uppsala?
Studying in Uppsala, Sweden offers access to one of Europe’s most vibrant academic cities. With centuries of university tradition, Uppsala hosts cutting-edge libraries, museums, and research centers. The Nordic Africa Institute provides not just funding, but a scholarly environment where Nordic and African academic networks converge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students apply if they are not Nordic citizens?
Yes. Citizenship does not matter, but you must be affiliated with a Nordic university or research institution.
2. Do I need to take IELTS/TOEFL?
No. Since the programme is not a degree-based course but a research residency, no English test is required.
3. How many scholarships are awarded each year?
The number varies depending on funding and quality of applications. Usually, a limited number of highly competitive slots are available.
4. Can I extend my stay beyond one month?
No. The scholarship is strictly designed for a one-month residency.
5. When will results be announced?
Successful applicants are typically notified in early 2026.
Official Application Link
For detailed guidelines and to apply directly, visit the official NAI page:
Apply for the Nordic Scholarship Programme 2026 at NAI
