The UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program 2025 offers a rare and valuable chance for young professionals and researchers from developing nations to deepen their knowledge in science, engineering, and technology.
This six-month fellowship, fully funded and hosted in Poland, brings together the resources of UNESCO and the Government of Poland to promote academic development, skill enhancement, and international collaboration.
For students and early-career professionals seeking hands-on research exposure in Europe, this fellowship is more than just a study opportunity; it’s a strategic investment in their future and their countries’ progress.
What is the UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program?
The UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program is an annual initiative aimed at building research capacity among talented individuals from developing countries. It specifically targets fields where scientific advancement plays a critical role in national development, such as engineering, applied sciences, and technology.
Participants spend six months working at renowned Polish universities and research institutes. During this time, they conduct academic research under expert supervision, engage in cultural and scientific exchanges, and receive professional mentorship.
The program is designed not only to boost individual expertise but also to bridge the gap between advanced and developing countries through knowledge sharing and international cooperation.
Fellowship Structure and Benefits
The UNESCO Poland Fellowship is highly competitive but offers significant rewards for those selected. A total of 30 fellowships will be awarded in 2025. The selected fellows will benefit from the following:
- Full tuition waiver and access to university resources.
- A monthly stipend ranging from 1800 to 2200 Polish Zloty (PLN) to cover living expenses.
- International airfare and local travel costs fully covered.
- Accommodation assistance throughout the program.
- Health insurance coverage for the entire duration of stay.
- One-time arrival and special allowance to ease initial settlement.
- Financial support for academic and cultural activities.
These benefits aim to provide a smooth and enriching experience, allowing fellows to focus entirely on their academic and professional growth.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a national of an eligible developing country (a complete list is provided below).
- Hold at least a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant field (science, engineering, or technology).
- Have completed a minimum of four years of higher education.
- Be proficient in English, which will be the language of instruction.
- Be under the age of 32 at the time of application.
Applicants who are committed to using their knowledge for the development of their home countries are especially encouraged to apply.
List of Eligible Countries
The fellowship targets applicants from across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Some of the eligible countries include:
- Africa: Nigeria, Kenya, Ethiopia, Ghana, South Africa, Zambia, Uganda, and many more.
- Asia: Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc.
- Latin America and the Caribbean: Argentina, Mexico, Colombia, Jamaica, Peru, Cuba, and others.
The full list includes over 70 developing countries. This ensures broad representation and a diverse group of fellows.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Completed UNESCO Fellowships Application Form
- A valid Medical Certificate
- A recent passport-sized photo
- Certified copies of academic degrees (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D.)
- A completed UNESCO Language Proficiency Certificate in English
- Two Letters of Recommendation from academic or professional contacts
Incomplete applications or missing documents will lead to disqualification, so attention to detail is key.
How to Apply for the UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program 2025
Here’s a step-by-step guide for applying:
- Contact the National Commission for UNESCO in your home country to express interest and request official nomination. This is a mandatory step.
- Fill out the application form and gather all required documents.
- Obtain official endorsement from your country’s National Commission for UNESCO.
- Submit the complete application by email to the email address displayed on the website.
- Additionally, register online via UNESCO’s Fellowship e-registration system.
Application Deadline:
The last date to apply is 12th May 2025. Early preparation is strongly advised due to the competitive nature of the program.
Application link
https://www.unesco.org/en/fellowships/poland-engineering
Why You Should Apply
The UNESCO Poland Fellowship is not just a fully funded academic experience; it’s a platform for change. Past fellows have gone on to become researchers, university lecturers, government advisors, and entrepreneurs in their home countries.
The program supports innovation, strengthens institutions, and promotes sustainable development through the transfer of scientific knowledge. Whether you’re a fresh graduate or an early-career scientist, this fellowship provides the tools to make a measurable impact in your community and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Yes, the UNESCO Poland Fellowship Program 2025 covers tuition, travel, accommodation, and health insurance and includes a monthly stipend.
Can students from any country apply?
No. Only applicants from eligible developing countries listed by UNESCO can apply.
What is the duration of the program?
The fellowship lasts for six months, during which participants live and study in Poland.
What is the age limit to apply?
Applicants must be under 32 years old at the time of application.
Is knowledge of the Polish language required?
No. The medium of instruction is English. However, basic knowledge of Polish may help in day-to-day life.
MORE RELATED CONTENT:
Japanese Government (MEXT) Undergraduate Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
GTCO Summer Internship Program 2025 for Students and Graduates
Call for Initiatives: World Forum for Democracy 2025
DSM-Firmenich Progress Foundation Scholarship 2025 (Fully Funded)