ScholaInfo
ScholaInfo

The UNESCO Poland Fellowship promotes human resource capacities in developing countries while fostering international understanding and friendship among nations. Co-sponsored by UNESCO and the Polish National Commission for UNESCO, the programme offers fully supported research fellowships at leading Polish universities.

Two separate programmes are available:

  • UNESCO/Poland Fellowships in Archaeology and Conservation of Cultural Heritage (2026–2027 edition)
  • UNESCO/Poland Fellowships in Engineering (science, technology, and engineering fields)

These opportunities provide invaluable hands-on experience, academic training, and international exposure for qualified candidates from invited developing Member States.⁠Unesco

Programme Overview

Archaeology and Conservation Fellowship

  • Duration: 9 months (1 October 2026 to 30 June 2027)
  • Host Institution: Faculty of Archaeology, Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland
  • Number of Fellowships: 7
  • Focus: Multidisciplinary methods in archaeological practice, plus supplementary courses in archaeology and conservation of cultural heritage.

Engineering Fellowship

  • Duration: 6 months (typically October to March; check current edition dates)
  • Host Institution: AGH University of Kraków, UNESCO AGH Chair (Kraków, Poland)
  • Number of Fellowships: Up to 28–30
  • Focus: Individual research projects in science, technology, and engineering (specific project titles and fields listed in official annexes).

Both programmes aim to build capacity in line with UNESCO’s mission and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

  • Be a national of an invited Member State (full list available in the official annexes on the UNESCO website – check your country’s eligibility).
  • Hold a relevant degree:
    • For Archaeology/Conservation: B.A. or M.A., preferably in Archaeology or Conservation.
    • For Engineering: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering or a related field (specific qualifications may vary by project).
  • Be proficient in reading and writing English (UNESCO language certificate required if English is not your mother tongue).
  • Be no more than 40 years old.
  • Have the application endorsed by the National Commission for UNESCO of your country.

Only applications endorsed by the National Commission are accepted. Individual applications sent directly to UNESCO are not considered.

Benefits of the UNESCO Poland Fellowship

Provided by Polish Authorities:

  • Free tuition and access to university facilities.
  • Monthly allowance: PLN 1,800–2,200 (depending on degree level; intended to cover living expenses and accommodation).
  • One-time special allowance upon arrival: PLN 1,800–2,200 for cultural visits, workshops, seminars, etc.

Provided by UNESCO:

  • International travel expenses (most direct and economical route) to and from Poland.
  • Health insurance (for medically fit beneficiaries).
  • One-time special pocket allowance of US$120.

Note: Fellows are responsible for their own visa and passport costs. Fellows must obtain an entry visa to Poland before departure.

Required Documents

Prepare the following (all in English):

  1. UNESCO Fellowships Application Form (all 4 pages completed in capital letters).
  2. Copy of identity photo.
  3. Scanned copy of passport.
  4. Certified copies of Bachelor’s, Master’s (or relevant) degree(s), with official translation if needed.
  5. UNESCO Certificate of Language Knowledge (if applicable).
  6. Two letters of recommendation from professionals familiar with your work (dated appropriately).

Documents must be clear, complete, and properly certified.

How to Apply for the UNESCO Poland Fellowship (Step-by-Step Guide)

  1. Visit the official pages and carefully read all details, including eligibility lists, terms and conditions, and annexes:
  2. Confirm your eligibility — Check if your country is invited and review specific project requirements for Engineering or Archaeology.
  3. Contact your National Commission for UNESCO as early as possible to learn about the national-level application and selection process.
  4. Prepare your complete application package with all required supporting documents.
  5. Submit your application to the National Commission of your country for endorsement and nomination.
  6. Once endorsed, the National Commission will transmit your documents to UNESCO. For endorsed candidates: