Have you ever dreamed of attending a world-class global health conference… without worrying about travel costs, hotel fees, or registration expenses? If yes, then the 26th International AIDS Conference 2026 in Brazil might be the opportunity that changes everything for you.

This fully funded program brings together activists, researchers, policymakers, healthcare workers, students, and people working on HIV from all over the world. And the best part? Anyone aged 18 or above can apply, and there is no application fee at all.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know — eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and step-by-step application details — using easy-to-read language. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do to increase your chances of being selected.

Let’s jump in.

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🌍 What Is the International AIDS Conference?

The International AIDS Conference is the largest global event on HIV, organized by the International AIDS Society (IAS) every two years. It brings together thousands of people who care deeply about one mission: ending the HIV epidemic.

But the conference is not only for scientists. You’ll meet:

It’s a place where voices from every background matter.

Why is the 2026 edition special?

Because it will be hosted in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, one of the most vibrant, colorful cities in the world. Imagine learning from global experts during the day… and enjoying Brazil’s beaches, culture, and music in the evening.

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📅 Quick Facts — 26th International AIDS Conference 2026

This conference welcomes people from all backgrounds. Whether you’re a student who’s just starting in global health or someone who has been working on community HIV programs for years, there’s a space for you.

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🧳 Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits

Now, let’s talk about what everyone wants to know: What does the scholarship include?

The IAS scholarship for AIDS 2026 is extremely generous. If selected, you will receive:

✔ 1. Round-trip International Flight

IAS will book and pay for your economy-class return ticket from your nearest international airport.

✔ 2. Free Accommodation in Brazil

You’ll stay in a single room in a comfortable, budget-friendly hotel for the entire duration of the conference.

✔ 3. Daily Living Allowance

This helps you cover:

✔ 4. Two-Year Paid IAS Membership

This is a major bonus. IAS membership gives you:

✔ 5. Full Conference Access

You’ll attend:

For many selected participants, this becomes a career-changing experience.

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👥 Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

The program is designed to be inclusive, and applications are welcomed from all countries — including Africa, Asia, South America, the Middle East, and the Pacific.

Here is who is eligible:

⭐ 1. Anyone 18 or older

There is no upper age limit.

⭐ 2. People involved in HIV work

This includes:

Even if you don’t have formal training or a medical background, you can still apply.

⭐ 3. People from low- and middle-income countries

IAS strongly encourages applications from these regions.

⭐ 4. Youth (Below 35 Years)

Young people and early-career professionals have a higher chance of being selected.

⭐ 5. Key Populations & People Living with HIV

IAS prioritizes individuals who are part of key communities, such as:

⭐ 6. Media Representatives

Journalists, content creators, and communication professionals covering public health issues are also eligible.

⭐ 7. Delegates with Accepted Abstracts

If your workshop or abstract is selected for presentation, your chances of receiving funding increase significantly.

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🙋‍♀️ Why Should You Apply?

Let me share a story.

A friend of mine from Kenya applied for the AIDS 2024 conference. She had never traveled outside her country. In fact, she almost didn’t apply because she thought she wasn’t “experienced enough.”

But she got selected.

She told me that stepping into an international conference hall with thousands of professionals felt like stepping into a new life. She made connections that later helped her secure a global fellowship.

So when I say “don’t underestimate yourself,” I mean it.

Your voice matters.

Your experience matters.

Your story matters.

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🚀 What You Will Gain From the Conference

Think of this conference as a global classroom — but instead of textbooks, you learn from real people making real changes.

You’ll gain:

✔ Knowledge

✔ Networks

Meet people who might become:

✔ Skills

Through workshops and training sessions, you’ll strengthen skills like:

✔ Global Experience

Traveling to Brazil will also give you a cultural experience that stays with you forever.

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🧩 How the Conference Selection Works

You may be wondering: “But what if I don’t have experience? Will they really choose me?”

Yes, they will — if you communicate your passion clearly.

IAS looks for:

High-level qualifications are not required.

Even small things like volunteering at a local clinic or supporting awareness campaigns count.

Your personal story is your strongest asset.

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📌 How to Apply — Step-by-Step Guide

Here’s the good news: the application process is 100% online.

Follow these steps:

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STEP 1: Visit the Official IAS Portal

Scroll to the bottom of this article where I’ve added the official link.

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STEP 2: Create Your IAS Account

Your account helps save your progress.

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STEP 3: Fill Out the Scholarship Form

This includes:

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STEP 4: Write Strong Motivation Answers

This is the most important part of your application. Be honest and clear:

Use simple, real-life examples.

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STEP 5: Submit Before the Deadline

The deadline is:

📅 27 January 2026

Late applications are not reviewed.

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STEP 6: Wait for Selection Results

If selected, IAS will contact you directly and arrange your travel.

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✈️ Traveling to Brazil: What to Expect

When people think of Brazil, they imagine:

But there’s more.

Brazil is also a global leader in community-based healthcare. Attending this conference will help you understand how developing countries are fighting HIV with innovation and compassion.

If this will be your first trip to Brazil, don’t worry. IAS will guide you on:

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🔍 Tips to Increase Your Chances of Being Selected

Here are things most applicants don’t know:

✔ Show community impact

Even small volunteer work helps.

✔ Focus on your motivation

Your personal story is more important than your qualifications.

✔ Apply early

Early submissions stand out.

✔ Highlight how you will use the knowledge

Explain your long-term vision.

✔ Be honest

IAS values authenticity.

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📝 Final Thoughts

The 26th International AIDS Conference 2026 in Brazil is more than just a conference. It’s a life-changing opportunity — especially for young people, community leaders, and those from low-resource countries.

If you want to grow your career, expand your network, represent your community, and gain international exposure, this is your moment.

Don’t talk yourself out of applying.
Don’t assume others are more qualified.
Don’t wait until the last minute.

Your voice can make a global impact.

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