The SBW Berlin Scholarship 2025 offers a fully funded opportunity for international students committed to social causes to pursue undergraduate or master’s degrees in Berlin or Potsdam. The scholarship supports socially committed international students who plan to use the skills gained during their studies to develop social or non-profit projects in their home countries. It offers funding for bachelor’s or master’s degrees in all scientific, social, or artistic disciplines at universities in Berlin or Potsdam, and in some cases, vocational training.
The SBW Berlin Scholarship program covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, and potential travel costs. After graduation, recipients are expected to return home for at least 18 months to continue their social work or pursue a career aligned with their projects. There is no deadline to apply for SBW Berlin Scholarships 2025 in Germany for International Students. Applications are open all around the year.
Universities/Institutions
- Name & Location: State-recognized universities and universities of applied sciences in Berlin or Potsdam.
- Host Country: Germany
- Ranking: Varies by institution; applicants should research individual university rankings.
- Programs: Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs.
- Duration: Funding is provided for the standard study period, up to 48 months.
Study Areas:
- Scientific disciplines (e.g., Natural Sciences, Engineering)
- Social sciences (e.g., Sociology, Political Science, Education)
- Artistic fields (e.g., Fine Arts, Music, Design)
- In special cases, vocational training programs in Berlin or Potsdam
SBW Berlin Scholarship Benefits
- Fully funded for the standard duration of the study program
- Furnished room in shared student housing (Rudower Str. 67, 12351 Berlin)
- Monthly cost-of-living allowance: €480
- Full tuition fees covered
- Possible travel support for arrival and departure
- Payments start after moving into the shared apartment
- Part-time jobs generally not allowed
- BAföG recipients may only receive a flat rate (max. €100/month)
- No application fee
Benefits Not Included
- Funding for family members or third parties
- Personal expenses beyond the provided allowances.
Eligibility Criteria for SBW Berlin Scholarship
- Age between 18 and 30
- Experience in non-profit or social work (proved by a recommendation letter)
- Not stayed in Germany longer than 18 months before applying
- Eligible for university entrance
- Intend to return to home country for at least 18 months post-graduation or work in non-profit roles
- Low net household income
- GPA equivalent to at least 2.0 in the German system
- No close family living permanently in Germany
- Apply before university starts or during 1st–3rd semester (Bachelor or Master’s)
- Who Can Apply
- Foreign nationals from countries needing development assistance
- Holders of a student visa or residence permit for study in Germany
- Not receiving another scholarship (except BAföG)
SBW Berlin’s Expectations
- Focus on social commitment and non-profit project development in home country.
- Scholarship recipients must:
- Submit a detailed project description aligned with a local non-profit organization.
- Attend workshops and mentorship sessions by SBW Berlin.
- Prepare reports and presentations about their project.
- Ongoing collaboration with the home country organization is expected.
- Non-profit organization must explain how the project and study align with their mission and detail the applicant’s past/future responsibilities.
- Recipients must return to their home country after graduation for at least 18 months.
- If not, they must repay the scholarship in 12 interest-free monthly installments.
- Recipients must work 2 to 8 hours per week on their social project.
- Consistent and good academic performance is required.
To know more about eligibility: Visit
Required Documents
- Letter of recommendation (sent by the organization)
- Application form (after eligibility confirmation)
- Project description (2–5 pages)
- Proof of university entrance qualification
- Net household income information
- Recent school/university certificate with GPA and grade overview
- Highest academic degree certificate with GPA and grade overview
- Optional but Recommended:
- Admission letter from a university in Berlin or Potsdam
- Recognized language certificate (German or English)
- Previous academic transcripts and certificates
- Work/training/internship certificates
- Additional recommendation letters (professors, employers, etc.)
- Evidence of net household income
- All documents must be in German or English (simple translations accepted for application)
- Certified copies may be requested later in the process
Selection Criteria
- Applicants must collaborate with a non-profit/social organization in their home country.
- Financial need is determined based on:
- §1 BAföG (German Education Assistance Act), or
- Household income below the average income in the applicant’s home country.
- All income sources of household members are considered.
- Strong academic potential must be evident from documents and interviews.
- Applicants should demonstrate strong social commitment and leadership.
- The submitted social project is evaluated for impact and feasibility.
- Additional funding for the project may be granted on a case-by-case basis.
SBW Berlin Scholarship Application Process
- First step: Letter of recommendation sent by a social/non-profit organization directly to application@sbw.berlin
- Selected candidates receive a link to the application form
- Submit the letter to SBW Berlin; if approved, you’ll receive access to the application portal.
- Complete the application form and upload all required documents.
- Submit the application; shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.
Selection Process
- Phase 1: Review of the recommendation letter.
- Decision on granting access to the application portal.
- Phase 2: Review of application form, academic records, and financial situation.
- Phase 3: Interview or video conference.
- May include practical tasks and discussion of the social project plan.
- Final Selection: Based on overall assessment.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to social causes through past experiences.
- Ensure all documents are complete, accurate, and translated into German or English if necessary.
- Clearly outline your project’s objectives and its impact on your home community.
- Maintain transparency about your financial situation.
- Apply early to allow ample time for processing and potential interviews.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Berlin:
- Rent (shared apartment): €300–€500
- Food: €200–€300
- Health insurance: €110–€120
- Public transport: €49 (Deutschlandticket)
- Other personal expenses (internet, phone, leisure): €100–€200
- Estimated total: €750–€1,100 per month
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The SBW Berlin Scholarship not only offers comprehensive financial support but also emphasizes social responsibility. It provides a platform for students to gain quality education while actively contributing to their home communities, fostering both personal and societal development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I apply if I’m already studying in Germany?
A: Yes, if you’re in the first, second, or third semester at a state-recognized university in Berlin or Potsdam.
Q2: Is there an application deadline?
A: Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is advised.
Q3: What happens if I don’t return to my home country after graduation?
A: You may be required to repay the scholarship in 12 monthly installments.
Q4: Can I bring my family with me?
A: The scholarship does not cover expenses for family members.
Q5: What level of German proficiency is required?
A: Proficiency depends on the language of instruction of your chosen program; proof of language skills is required.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official SBW Berlin Scholarship page:
