Are you an ambitious student dreaming of studying in Germany with full financial support? The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarships 2026 offer a unique pathway to world-class education, leadership development, and an active role in shaping society. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need: deadlines, eligibility, benefits, step-by-step application details, and essential tips.
Basic Information About the Scholarships
The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships are fully funded awards for international and German students who want to pursue Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD degrees at public or state-recognized universities in Germany. Recipients are selected for their academic excellence, social commitment, and alignment with the values of social democracy. Up to 40 new scholarships are awarded each year.
Application Deadlines (2026)
- Winter Semester 2026: 30 November 2025
- Summer Semester 2026: 31 May 2026
- PhD Candidates: Applications accepted year-round
University/Institution Details
- Host Institutions: Any public or state-recognized university or “Fachhochschule” (polytechnical college) in Germany.
- Examples of Top Institutions:
Students can choose any accredited academic institution across Germany, enjoying access to outstanding facilities, mentorship, and events.
Study Areas (Available Program Names)
FES scholarships are available across all study fields:
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering & IT
- Social Sciences
- Humanities
- Business & Economics
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Law & Political Science
Scholarship Benefits
What’s Included:
- Full Tuition Fee Coverage
- Monthly Stipend:
- Undergraduate: up to €934/month (approx. $1,040)
- Postgraduate: up to €1,200/month (approx. $1,335)
- Health Insurance
- Family Allowance: if applicable (€276/month)
- Academic Support: access to seminars, workshops, and exclusive networking events
- Mentorship: from experienced professionals and alumni
- Career Development: seminars, career consulting, and access to FES’s global network
Benefits NOT Included
- Airfare/travel tickets to Germany
- Visa application fees
- Personal expenses outside the set stipend
- Settling-in allowance (unless specified by the program)
- Language course costs (separate from academic program)
Eligibility Criteria for the Scholarship
Key Requirements:
- Nationality: Open to international students from the Global South (Asia, Africa, Latin America), post-Soviet states, eastern and southeastern EU countries. (OECD (e.g., USA, Canada, UK, Australia) almost always excluded)
- Academic Status: Enrolled or intending to enroll in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD at a recognized German institution.
- Academic Merit: Excellent academic record.
- Social Commitment: Evidence of involvement in social, community, or political causes.
- Language Proficiency: Proof of sufficient German (DSH Level 2/TestDaF Level 4/Goethe Zertifikat C1/Telc C1 Hochschule), even if study program is in English.
- Admission/Enrollment: Confirmation of a study place/admission at a German higher education institution.
Required Documents for the Application
Prepare the following documents for your application:
- Completed Online Application Form (in German or English)
- Personal Statement/Motivation Letter
- Academic Transcripts (translated if necessary)
- Proof of German Language Proficiency (DSH, TestDaF, Goethe, Telc, etc.)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letters of Recommendation (usually 1-2)
- Proof of Admission/Enrollment at German university
- Copy of Passport or National ID
- Proof of Financial Need/Economic Situation (sometimes required, e.g., bank statements)
- Additional Documents for PhD applicants: research proposal and supervisor statement.
Scholarship Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Check Eligibility
- Ensure you meet academic, language, and social commitment criteria.
- Prepare Required Documents
- Assemble all the documents listed above.
- Complete Online Application
- Register and fill in your details on the FES application portal (in German).
- Submit Application
- Upload scans of all required documents.
- Wait for Preselection
- The foundation reviews applications and may request more info or an interview.
- Interview & Further Assessment
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, possibly including further written tests.
- Final Selection
- Successful applicants are notified and begin preparations for arrival in Germany.
- Enrollment & Orientation
Tips for a Successful Application
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Be genuine, highlight your academic goals, commitment to social engagement, and future plans.
- Emphasize Social/Community Engagement: Showcase volunteer work, clubs, community service, and leadership roles.
- Secure Excellent References: Academic or professional referees who know you well can add significant value.
- Demonstrate Language Readiness: Make sure your language proficiency is clearly proven.
- Apply Early: Don’t wait for the deadline; complete everything ahead of time to avoid technical issues.
- Make Your Application Neat & Complete: Submit a clear, error-free, and well-organized application—no missing documents, no mistakes.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany (in USD)
A realistic monthly budget (2025 estimates):
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost (€) | Approximate in USD |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | €300 – €600 | $335 – $670 |
| Food and Groceries | €150 – €300 | $167 – $335 |
| Transportation | €50 – €100 | $56 – $112 |
| Health Insurance | €100 – €120 | $112 – $134 |
| Miscellaneous/Utilities | €100 – €200 | $112 – $223 |
| Total | €850 – €1,200 | $950 – $1,340 |
Students are required by German authorities to show a minimum of €992/month (about $1,040) for visa purposes, but real costs may be higher in major cities like Munich or Berlin.
Why Choose The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship? (Minimum 5 Reasons)
- Fully Funded—No Tuition Fees
- Worry-free academic journey: stipend, insurance, and living expenses covered.
- All Disciplines Eligible
- Apply regardless of your field, opening the doors for STEM, arts, business, law, and more.
- Outstanding Career Support
- Access mentorship, exclusive seminars, workshops, and a vast professional network.
- Prestige & Alumni Success
- Enrichment Beyond the Classroom
- Attend 80+ FES workshops, gain leadership skills, and contribute to global challenges like social justice and sustainability.
- Immersive Social & Political Engagement
- Grow as a leader by engaging with like-minded peers and policy influencers.
- Study in Germany’s Top Institutions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Who can apply for the scholarship?
A: International students from the Global South, post-Soviet states, and eastern/southeastern Europe who have strong academics, social commitment, and proof of German language ability.
Q: Can I study in English and still get the scholarship?
A: Even for English-taught programs, proof of German language proficiency is typically required.
Q: Is the scholarship open to all fields and degree levels?
A: Yes. Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students from any accredited field may apply.
Q: Do I have to apply to a specific university?
A: No. You can choose any state-recognized German university or polytechnic.
Q: Can I apply if I’m already enrolled in a German university?
A: Yes—provided you have not surpassed the semester limit based on your study stage.
Q: Does the FES scholarship cover travel to Germany?
A: No. The scholarship does not include airfare or visa fees.
Q: How competitive is the selection?
A: Very—only about 40 scholarships are awarded annually, prioritizing academic excellence and social commitment.
Begin your journey with FES:
This scholarship is more than just finance—it’s about growing as a socially engaged leader, expanding your network globally, and gaining skills for lifelong success. Apply early, prepare thoroughly, and take the first step toward studying—tuition-free—in Germany’s vibrant academic landscape!