Deadline: February 27, 2026
The UNESCO-IIEP Visiting Researcher Programme 2026 is a prestigious international research opportunity designed for experienced researchers and scholars working in the field of educational planning, policy, and management. The programme allows selected researchers to collaborate with experts at the International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP-UNESCO), contribute to ongoing research initiatives, and strengthen global knowledge on education systems.
The UNESCO-IIEP Visiting Researcher Programme 2026 provides a unique platform for advancing academic research while engaging directly with UNESCO-IIEP’s global research and training activities.
About the UNESCO-IIEP Visiting Researcher Programme 2026
The Visiting Researcher Programme is a professional and academic engagement hosted by UNESCO’s International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP). It supports independent and collaborative research aligned with IIEP’s thematic priorities, while fostering knowledge exchange among global education researchers.
Selected visiting researchers work closely with IIEP teams to:
- Conduct independent or collaborative research
- Contribute to existing IIEP research projects
- Participate in training design, review, and academic discussions
- Strengthen international research networks in education planning and management
Who Can Apply?
The programme is highly competitive and open to experienced professionals, including:
- Independent researchers and internationally recognised academics
- University professors, including those on sabbatical
- Researchers from national institutions or international organisations
- Education policy specialists contributing to national or international research teams
- Professionals supporting or complementing IIEP research initiatives
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants are typically expected to have:
- A PhD or equivalent qualification in education, social sciences, or a related discipline
- Proven research experience in education policy, planning, or management
- Strong academic or professional publications and research output
- Fluency in at least one working language: English, French, or Spanish
- A well-defined research proposal aligned with IIEP’s research priorities
Programme Location
Visiting researchers are hosted at one of UNESCO-IIEP’s locations, depending on the nature of the research and institutional arrangements:
- Paris, France
- Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Dakar, Senegal
Duration of the Programme
- The programme typically lasts between 1 and 6 months
- Extensions may be considered in exceptional cases, subject to agreement
Funding and Financial Responsibility
The UNESCO-IIEP Visiting Researcher Programme 2026 is self-funded.
Participants are responsible for covering:
- International and local travel costs
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Health insurance and visa arrangements
UNESCO-IIEP does not provide stipends, travel grants, or living allowances.
Application Deadline
📅 Application Deadline: 27 February 2026
(All applications must be submitted by midnight, Paris time.)
Early preparation is strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the programme.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their application through the official UNESCO-IIEP application platform. A complete application typically includes:
- A detailed research proposal aligned with IIEP’s thematic focus
- An updated curriculum vitae (CV)
- Academic and professional background information
- Preferred location and proposed duration of stay
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted following the review process.
Who Should Consider This Programme?
The programme is particularly suitable for:
- Mid-career and senior education researchers
- Policy analysts and education planners
- Academics seeking international research exposure
- Professionals aiming to contribute to global education system strengthening
Need Support with Your Application?
We offer professional support for proposal drafting, refining, and review to help strengthen your application and improve alignment with UNESCO-IIEP priorities.
📩 Contact us for expert assistance with:
- Research proposal development
- Proposal refinement and clarity improvement
- Final application review and quality assurance
