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Internationalise a course module with Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL): applications now open!

30/10/2026 | by Cécile Steyer, on behalf of EUniWell Centre for Learning coordinators | Digital Education

EUniWell is pleased to announce the launch of its first Call for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), inviting applications from educators across all member universities. COIL gives students the opportunity to work on an international group project by adapting an existing course module. The call is open to applications from 30 October 2026 to 10 January 2027.

Graphic announcing a call for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), featuring blue and pink gradient globes against a pale yellow background. Applications close on 10 January 2027.

The development of new educational offers in line with EUniWell’s Thematic Arenas is one of the key objectives of the Alliance. For this purpose, EUniWell is calling for expressions of interest to internationalise existing course modules through Collaborative Online International Learning: COIL. 

COIL is a teaching method that connects two or more classes, based in different countries, so that their students work together for a defined period through online tools. It is not a brand-new course and does not necessarily require to change existing study plans; it is a way of enriching a course already taught by embedding an international, collaborative component delivered online.

A COIL project is designed and delivered jointly by educators from at least two partner institutions, who co-define learning outcomes, plan joint activities and, together, guide their students through a shared task, project or investigation. Most often, COIL projects last over three to eight weeks, combining synchronous sessions (live video meetings) and asynchronous work (shared documents, forums, recorded material).

Benefits

From a professional perspective, organising a COIL project is a way for educators to contribute towards internationalisation at their home institution while practicing co-creation, peer-to-peer learning, and multidisciplinary cooperation. The benefits for students include active participation in inclusive, structured, and meaningful virtual projects with international scope.

Call outlines and matchmaking

Courses at all levels, from Bachelor to PhD, can implement a COIL component and all EUniWell member institutions are welcome to participate.

To be recognised under this call, a COIL project must:

  • Involve at least two lecturers from different EUniWell universities and countries 
  • Be embedded within existing credit-bearing courses or programmes
  • Include structured collaborative learning activities (see concrete examples in the COIL handbook - Voices from the field section) between students from partner institutions over a defined period
  • Include jointly designed learning outcomes

Proposals may be submitted from any academic discipline with a preference for EUniWell thematic areas, including:

  • Health and Well-being
  • Education and Well-being
  • Environment and Well-being
  • Social Equality and Well-being
  • Culture, Multilingualism and Well-being

Interdisciplinary collaborations are particularly encouraged. 

Timeline

The first EUniWell Call for COIL is open to applications from 26 October 2026.

  • Online information sessions: two online information sessions (no registration required) will be held to explain the matchmaking process, help connect interested parties, provide clarification on the call outlines and answer any questions. 
  • Application deadline: the matchmaking form must be submitted before 10 January 2027, 23:59 CET (22:59 GMT).
  • Kick-off and training: a 90-minute training session will take place in February 2027 to provide practical guidance on how to create a COIL project. EUniWell can also offer remote support during the process.
  • COIL launch: the first EUniWell COIL projects will be launched from Spring 2027 onwards with a flexible starting date.

How to apply

Further information:

For more information about COIL, please consult our COIL Handbook.

If you are interested, you are very welcome to join our two online information sessions on 16 November and 16 December (see details above; no registration is required). The sessions will explain the matchmaking process, help connect interested parties, clarify the call outlines and provide an opportunity to ask any questions.

Contact

The Call for COIL is managed by Nantes Université on behalf of the EUniWell consortium.

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