Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship for International Students, in Germany

The Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) offers its Scholarship for International Students to up to 40 high-performing students each year to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Germany. Applicants may study any field, but must be from a designated eligible country. Citizens of all Arab countries except the United Arab Emirates are eligible to apply.

FES scholars receive a monthly stipend of 830 euros (for students enrolled in bachelor’s programmes) or 850 euros (for students enrolled in master’s programmes), plus health insurance expenses. Students with a child receive an additional family stipend of 276 euros. Other benefits include a comprehensive seminar programme to help scholars enhance their social competences and academic skills, and individual support from an on-site liaison lecturer.

Applications may be submitted at any time, but should be received no later than 30 April for the summer term and 31 October for the winter term.

The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung is a nonprofit organisation committed to promoting social democracy and democratic growth. Its scholarship programme provides an exceptional chance for overseas students to pursue their academic goals in Germany.

Deadline

Open

Benefits

• A monthly stipend of 830 euros for bachelor’s degree students, 850 euros for master’s degree students. Scholars with a child are eligible for a family allowance of 276 euros a month.
• Health insurance.
• Individual support through an on-site lecturer.
• A seminar programme to help scholars enhance their social competences and academic skills.

Eligibility 

Applicants must:

• Be from an eligible country (see a list under “Application Requirements” on this page).
• Be enrolling in a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany.
• Demonstrate outstanding school or academic merit by providing first graded proofs of academic achievement.
• Show social and political involvement and commitment to the values of social democracy.
• Be responsible, motivated, reliable individuals willing to get involved with the foundation’s network.
• Be proficient in the German language, even if your chosen course is taught in English.

How to Apply

Find a full description (in German) of the application process, including lists of required documents and instructions for preparing reports, at this link. The process follows the steps outlined below:

1. Start by filling out an online application.
2. If you are eligible, the foundation will request additional documents via email. These include two reports from former teachers (for bachelor’s degree candidates) or university professors (for master’s degree candidates), as well as information about your previous education and socio-political commitment. You will have three weeks to upload these documents. This may be extended to six weeks, if necessary, after consultation with the selection committee.
3. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for two personal interviews, one with a lecturer in your department, and one with a selection committee member.
4. The selection committee makes the final decision about acceptance.