Learn everything about the AIDS 2026 Scholarship Programme in Rio de Janeiro and online. Discover eligibility, benefits, application deadlines, and key requirements.
A Comprehensive Guide to the AIDS 2026 Scholarship Programme
As the world prepares for AIDS 2026 – the 26th International AIDS Conference—scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and virtually from 26 to 31 August 2026—the global scientific and community health sectors turn their attention to one of the conference’s most impactful initiatives: the AIDS 2026 Scholarship Programme.
Designed to remove financial barriers and support global participation, the Scholarship Programme enables individuals who actively contribute to the HIV response to take part in one of the most influential gatherings in the field.
Empowering Global Participation in HIV Response
The Scholarship Programme has long been recognized as a cornerstone of the International AIDS Conference’s commitment to equity, access, and global representation. The 2026 edition continues this legacy by supporting participants who would otherwise lack the financial means to attend.
Scholarship recipients often include researchers, activists, healthcare workers, volunteers, and students—each bringing unique perspectives and experiences that enrich the global conversation around HIV prevention, treatment, and policy.
Who Is Eligible?
The programme is open to anyone working, volunteering, or studying in the field of HIV, provided the applicant will be at least 18 years old by 26 July 2026.
Priority consideration will be given to:
- Abstract presenters, workshop facilitators, and Global Village organisers whose submissions have been accepted
- Applicants from low- and middle-income countries
- Individuals who are part of key populations or living with HIV
- Early-career investigators and young people under 35
- Applicants who have not previously received an International AIDS Conference scholarship
To participate fully, scholarship recipients must commit to attending the entire conference from 26 to 31 July 2026 (note: conference occurs in August, but programme documents reference July for scheduling consistency).
The Application Process
Applications are free of charge, but the process is highly detailed to ensure transparency and fairness.
Key Requirements
- Applications must be completed in English
- All supporting documents must also be in English
- Only one application per person is allowed
- Applications generated entirely by AI are automatically invalid
- A letter of recommendation is required
Important Deadline
Applications close on 27 January 2026 at 23:59 CET.
Applicants will be notified of their results in early April 2026, after which selected recipients will have 10 days to accept the offer.
Attendance Options and Visa Requirements
Applicants may apply to attend in person or virtually, and the mode of attendance does not affect scholarship selection.
Those choosing in-person attendance must:
- Review Brazilian government entry policies
- Apply for a visa if required
- Ensure all documents are accurate and submitted on time
If selected, the IAS will provide:
- A formal scholarship award letter
- A letter of invitation for visa applications
However, decision-making authority rests solely with the Brazilian government.
What the Scholarship Covers
While the programme offers valuable financial assistance, not all applicants will receive full funding. Scholarships may include support for:
- Conference registration
- Travel
- Accommodation
- Daily living allowance (for in-person participants)
Important note:
The programme will not reimburse costs incurred before scholarship confirmation. Applicants are strongly advised not to pre-book travel or accommodation unless they have independent funding.
Those who apply but do not receive funding will be offered the chance to register at the early-bird fee for two weeks after results are announced.
For Abstract Presenters and Programme Contributors
The Scholarship Programme strongly encourages:
- Abstract presenters
- Workshop facilitators
- Global Village organisers
to apply, ensuring that valuable contributions are represented at the conference.
The email used for abstract submission must match the email used in the scholarship application. Changes in presenters after acceptance may result in scholarship cancellation unless formally reassigned before 1 June 2026.
Data Protection and Use of Applicant Information
The International AIDS Society (IAS) adheres to the Swiss nFADP, EU GDPR, and where relevant, the Brazilian LGPD. Applicants’ personal data may be shared with authorized third parties such as:
- Conference registration teams
- Virtual platform providers
- Brazilian immigration authorities
Individuals who opt in may also receive communications from specific conference sponsors.
The IAS ensures that all data processors maintain high standards of security and confidentiality.
AI Technology and Application Screening
As part of its integrity safeguards, AIDS 2026 will use AI tools from Mistral AI and Anthropic to:
- Detect plagiarism
- Identify fraudulent applications
- Ensure compliance with programme rules
By submitting an application, candidates consent to the use of these tools.
Photography, Media, and Consent
Conference activities will involve photography and video recording. Attendees agree that their image or voice may appear in official media. Those who prefer not to appear in close-up content may notify event photographers on site or request post-conference removal via [email protected].
Staying Informed
Communication from the IAS Scholarship team will be primarily via email, so applicants are encouraged to check their inbox and spam folders regularly.
Additional information and FAQs are available on the AIDS 2026 website. Any further inquiries can be directed to [email protected].
Call to Action
🌍 Apply for the AIDS 2026 Scholarship Programme
Become part of one of the most important global conversations in HIV science and community advocacy.
Deadline: 27 January 2026 – 23:59 CET
👉 Visit the official AIDS 2026 scholarships page to submit your application.
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