Applications are now open for the CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme.
About the CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme
We are pleased to announce the second call for applications for the CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme, following a successful pilot programme launched in June 2025. The call for applications is open to all Professional Services Staff across the school, at any level.
LSE staff are invited to submit proposals for a short visit to another CIVICA university (between 2-3 days) for a learning experience and/or professional development opportunity. The short visit proposal could involve activities such as (but not limited to) job shadowing a department/division, attending a workshop, participating in meetings or engaging in informal training opportunities.
Staff can submit one application to visit one of the CIVICA institutions listed below:
(Please note that EUI and Bocconi have been removed from this application round due to hosting capacities)
- Central European University, Vienna, Austria
- Hertie School, Berlin, Germany
- IE University, Madrid, Spain
- SNSPA, Bucharest, Romania
- Sciences Po, Paris, France
- SGH Warsaw School of Economics, Warsaw, Poland
- Stockholm School of Economics, Stockholm, Sweden
Application Process
To apply, staff will need to complete the application form here. Please note that in order to apply, you will have to contact your chosen host university and enquire whether they would have the capacity to host you as a visitor, and agree on a provisional agenda for your visit (times/dates can be provisionally agreed). You will also need a short statement of support from a contact at the host university.
Please ensure that your line manager and/or team are aware of your application, and any implications that this mobility visit would have for you/your team if you are successful in your application. Additionally, this time round we are also requesting that your department fund your subsistence costs for the duration of your visit. The CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme will continue to cover staff travel and accommodation costs as part of the visit.
If you are successful in your application, you will be asked to provide an email/letter of support from your line manager stating their approval of your planned visit, and the department's commitment to funding your subsistence costs during the visit. Visits to host institutions under the CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme are typically considered as part of the normal working week, and not as annual leave (unless a staff member takes additional annual leave following their visit).
CIVICA Staff Mobility Scheme FAQs
Who can apply?
LSE Professional Services Staff (including those on fixed term or temporary contracts, so long as the visit is within the duration of their contract.).
How long should the CIVICA Staff Mobility Visit be?
Visits to host institutions should last between 2–3 days.
How many applications can I submit?
Applications are limited to one application per staff member. If you applied in the pilot and were unsuccessful, you are welcome to apply again.
How should I contact my prospective host university?
You can search for the departments or contacts you are interested in visiting or shadowing online, via each university's website. You can also contact the CIVICA representative at each institution if you need assistance - their details are on: Governance | Civica under 'CIVICA Management Team.'
When should the visit take place?
The mobility visit should take place between February - 31st July 2026.
Is there a limit for the proposed budget for the visit?
Proposed budgets for visits to host institutions should be reasonable and proportionate, and should demonstrate value for money. Generally, proposed budgets for visits to European institutions should not exceed £750 per visit.
The proposed budget can include costs for travel and accommodation.
Please note: If you are successful in your Staff Mobility application, we will ask that your department contribute to this development opportunity by agreeing to fund your subsistence costs for the duration of your visit.
How will I book travel/accommodation?
Staff will be asked to book their travel and accommodation via LSE's Travel Service provider Melon where possible, or where not possible, via a reimbursement process. These costs will then be covered/reimbursed by the CIVICA Staff Mobility scheme. Staff are encouraged to book hotel accommodation, and can ask the institution they are applying to for accommodation recommendations if required.
Subsistence expenses will need to be managed locally within your department.
Can I submit a joint application with another colleague?
Staff are generally advised against submitting joint applications, unless there is clear justification, purpose and rationale for the visit.
Is there any advice available on what makes a good application?
Yes - you can view examples from successful applications here.
When is the application deadline?
Please submit your completed application form here by the 30th November 2025.
Any questions should be submitted to Rebecca Sealy, European Partnerships Coordinator (CIVICA) at r.sealy@lse.ac.uk
Applications outcomes will be shared by 12th December 2025.
Any questions? Email civica@lse.ac.uk