The 26th International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2026) is the world’s premier gathering for those working to end the HIV epidemic. Hosted by the International AIDS Society (IAS), the 2026 conference will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme “Rethink. Rebuild. Rise.”
The scholarship program is designed to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent researchers, activists, and healthcare providers from contributing to this global dialogue.
Conference & Scholarship Details
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Rio de Janeiro, Brazil & Virtual |
| Event Dates | July 26 – 31, 2026 |
| Organizer | International AIDS Society (IAS) |
| Status | Applications are now closed (Deadline was Jan 27, 2026) |
| Results | Expected in early April 2026 |
Scholarship Coverage
The IAS offers two types of scholarships based on the applicant’s needs and preference:
In-Person Attendance
- Travel: Pre-paid economy class round-trip airfare.
- Stay: Single-room accommodation in a budget hotel for the conference duration.
- Daily Stipend: An allowance for meals and local transportation.
- Access: Full registration for both in-person and virtual sessions.
Virtual Attendance
- Digital Access: Full online access to live-streamed sessions, on-demand recordings, and the virtual Global Village.
Bonus: All scholarship recipients (both in-person and virtual) receive a free 2-year IAS membership following the conference.
Priority Groups for Selection
While the scholarship is open to anyone over 18 working in the HIV field, the selection committee prioritizes:
- Program Contributors: Abstract presenters and workshop facilitators.
- Regional Focus: Applicants from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
- Key Populations: People living with HIV and those from heavily affected communities.
- Youth: Early-career researchers and advocates under age 35.
- First-time Applicants: Those who have never received an IAS scholarship before.
Next Steps for Applicants
- Check Your Email: If you submitted your application by the January 27 deadline, watch for a notification in early April 2026.
- Volunteer Opportunities: If you missed the scholarship deadline, the Volunteer Program applications are expected to open in March 2026.
- Registration: If your scholarship application is unsuccessful, the IAS typically offers a two-week window for applicants to register at the early-bird rate, even after that deadline has passed.