Timeline
Four dates that shape your year
Applications open
Sep 1, 2026
Applications close
Jan 31, 2026
Results announced
Apr 15, 2026
Period begins
Sep 1, 2026
* Popular Scholarship pathway. Verified deadlines and details.
02 — Eligibility
Who can apply
Ensure you qualify on core disciplines, citizenship status, and credential requirements.
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Citizenship
Applicants must generally be citizens of one of AECID's partner countries. These countries are predominantly located in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Specific calls will list the exact eligible nationalities.
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Academic Background
A university degree is almost always a prerequisite, typically a Bachelor's or equivalent. Candidates are usually expected to demonstrate a strong academic record. For Master's programs, a relevant undergraduate degree is essential, and for doctoral or research stays, a Master's degree is often required.
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Language Proficiency
A high level of Spanish proficiency is usually mandatory, especially for programs taught in Spanish. Some specific programs designed for international cooperation might accept English proficiency, but this is less common. Official language certifications (e.g., DELE, SIELE) are often required.
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Field of Study
The scholarship prioritizes fields of study aligned with AECID's development cooperation priorities. These often include areas such as sustainable development, good governance, gender equality, environmental sciences, public health, cultural heritage, and specific scientific or technical disciplines.
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Age Limits
While not always strict, some calls may specify age limits or target professionals at a certain stage of their careers, particularly for training programs.
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No Prior AECID Scholarship
Generally, individuals who have previously received a long-term AECID scholarship are not eligible to apply again for another long-term program.
Who this is NOT for
- Short-term residency seekers: Candidates looking for conference or travel support rather than active degree enrollment.
- Remote learners: Students planning to attend online degree modules from Pakistan.
- U.S. Dual Citizens: Dual nationals holding U.S. citizenship (for U.S. study grants).
- Late planners: Those unable to commit 9–12 months of early preparation for visa and document assembly.
03 — Documents
Required credentials
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Official Academic Transcripts
Certified copies of all university transcripts (undergraduate and postgraduate, if applicable), detailing courses taken and grades obtained.
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Degree Certificates
Certified copies of all university degree certificates (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's).
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Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
A detailed CV outlining your academic history, professional experience, research, publications, and any relevant awards or volunteering.
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Motivation Letter / Statement of Purpose
A compelling essay explaining your academic and professional goals, why you are applying for the specific program, how it relates to your career aspirations, and how your profile aligns with AECID's objectives.
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Letters of Recommendation
Typically two letters from academic professors or professional supervisors who can attest to your abilities and potential. These are often submitted directly by the recommenders or uploaded by the applicant in a sealed format.
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Proof of Spanish Language Proficiency
Official certificates (e.g., DELE, SIELE) demonstrating your level of Spanish. A high level (B2 or C1 minimum) is often required.
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Passport / Identification
A clear, scanned copy of your valid passport or national identification document.
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Study Plan / Research Proposal (for PhD/Research Stays)
For research-oriented programs, a detailed proposal outlining your research topic, methodology, objectives, and timeline.
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Acceptance Letter (if applicable)
For some programs, you might need to secure conditional or full admission to a Spanish university or program before applying for the AECID scholarship.
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Photographs
Recent passport-sized photographs.
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Other Certificates
Any other relevant certificates such as professional qualifications, awards, or proofs of extracurricular activities.
04 — The pipeline
Narrative steps, four acts
Most candidates underestimate how much prep work is done before the online form opens. Follow this structured chronological timeline to plan deliberately.
Review the Annual Call (Convocatoria):
The first and most critical step is to thoroughly read the official "Call for Applications" published on the AECID website. This document contains all the specific programs offered, eligibility criteria, required documents, deadlines, and application instructions for that year.
Choose Your Program:
Identify the specific postgraduate program, research stay, or training course that aligns with your academic and professional goals and for which you meet the eligibility requirements.
Gather Required Documents:
Begin collecting all necessary documentation well in advance. This typically includes academic transcripts, degree certificates, a CV, letters of recommendation, language proficiency certificates, and a motivation letter.
Complete the Online Application Form:
AECID usually provides an online application portal. Applicants must register, create a profile, and meticulously fill out all sections of the application form, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Write Your Motivation Letter/Essay:
Craft a compelling motivation letter or essay that clearly articulates your academic background, professional experience, reasons for choosing the specific program, how it aligns with AECID's development priorities, and your future aspirations.
Secure Letters of Recommendation:
Request letters of recommendation from professors or professional supervisors who can speak to your academic abilities, professional experience, and potential. Ensure they are submitted according to AECID's guidelines.
Submit Supporting Documents:
Upload all required documents to the online portal in the specified format (e.g., PDF) before the deadline. Double-check that every document is correctly uploaded and legible.
Review and Submit:
Before final submission, carefully review your entire application package for any errors or omissions. Once satisfied, submit your application through the online system.
Track Your Application:
While AECID may not provide real-time tracking, stay informed by checking the official website for updates regarding selection stages and results.
Prepare for Interviews (if applicable):
For some programs, shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview (often via video conference) to assess their motivation, academic understanding, and language proficiency.
Get the free application checklist (PDF)
A comprehensive, printable spreadsheet checklist mapping milestones, required essays, references, and deadline checks.
05 — Answered
Frequently asked questions
What is the MAEC-AECID Scholarship?
It's a prestigious scholarship program managed by the Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation (MAEC) of Spain. It offers grants for postgraduate studies, research, and institutional training, primarily aimed at citizens from partner countries.
Who is eligible for the AECID Scholarship?
Eligibility typically depends on the specific call for applications, but generally includes citizens of AECID's partner countries in Latin America, Africa, and Asia, who hold a university degree and meet specific academic and language requirements.
Does the AECID Scholarship cover all expenses?
The scholarship typically provides comprehensive coverage, which may include tuition fees, monthly stipends for living expenses, health insurance, and international travel assistance. The exact benefits vary by program and call.
How competitive is the AECID Scholarship?
The MAEC-AECID Scholarship is highly competitive due to its comprehensive benefits and the prestige of studying in Spain. Applicants are evaluated based on academic merit, professional experience, proposed study plan, and alignment with AECID's development priorities.
When is the application period for the AECID Scholarship?
The application period usually opens annually, often in the early months of the year, but specific dates vary. It is crucial to consult the official AECID website for the most accurate and up-to-date deadlines for each call.
What study levels does the AECID Scholarship support?
The scholarship primarily supports postgraduate studies (Master's and doctoral programs), as well as research stays and institutional training programs, depending on the specific program modality.
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