The Einstein Fellowship Program 2026 offers young, exceptional thinkers in any field the chance to pursue a project outside their previous work area. Einstein Forum and the Wittenstein Foundation offer a fellowship for outstanding young thinkers who want to pursue a project in a field different from their previous research. It supports individuals who excel in their specialty but are also open to interdisciplinary ideas, following Albert Einstein’s example.
The Einstein Fellowship Program provides accommodation for 5 to 6 months in Einstein’s summerhouse garden cottage in Caputh, Brandenburg, near Potsdam and Berlin. Fellows receive a €10,000 stipend and travel expense reimbursement. The application deadline is May 15, 2025.
University/ Institutions:
- Institution: Einstein Forum & Wittenstein Foundation
- Place: Caputh, near Potsdam and Berlin, Germany
- Ranking: While the fellowship is not directly linked to a specific university, both institutions are highly regarded in academic and research circles.
- Programs: Independent research project (non-degree)
- Duration: 5 to 6 months
Study Areas:
The Einstein Fellowship Program is open to all academic disciplines. However, projects should:
- Be original and interdisciplinary, connecting fields in innovative ways.
- Not be part of your formal academic or professional obligations.
- Show potential for broader societal impact or novel thinking.
Einstein Fellowship Program Benefits:
- A stipend of EUR 10,000 for the entire duration
- Free accommodation at Einstein’s summer house in Caputh
- Reimbursement of travel expenses
- Family members welcome (travel expenses not covered)
Benefits Not Included:
- Health insurance and visa costs
- Costs related to family members (the fellowship does not support dependents)
Eligibilities for Einstein Fellowship Program:
- Candidates must be under 35 years old
- Hold a university degree in humanities, social sciences, or natural sciences.
- You don’t need a PhD to apply, but your project must differ from any ongoing academic research or dissertation.
- The project must show quality, originality, and feasibility.
- The fellowship does not support dissertation research.
- Fellows will present their project in a public lecture at the Einstein Forum and the Wittenstein Foundation.
- You don’t need to complete the proposed project entirely during the fellowship; it can serve as the starting point for a longer project.
- You must demonstrate a good command of English or German.
Application Requirements:
- CV
- Two-page project proposal
- Two letters of recommendation (can be sent directly to fellowship@einsteinforum.de)
- Optional cover letter
- All documents must be in PDF format and submitted by May 15, 2025.
Einstein Fellowship Program Application Process:
- Prepare all required documents.
- Submit the application via email to the Einstein Forum’s official address.
- Ensure the subject line reads: “Application for the Einstein Fellowship 2026.”
- Await confirmation of receipt and possible interview invitations.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Emphasize originality and the interdisciplinary nature of your project.
- Tailor your proposal to reflect how your project aligns with the fellowship’s mission.
- Obtain strong, personalized recommendation letters from mentors familiar with your work.
- Keep your proposal concise but compelling—clarity is key!
- Proofread all documents to avoid any errors.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany:
While your accommodation is covered, you’ll need to budget for daily living expenses:
- Food & Groceries: €250 – €350/month
- Public Transportation: €80 – €100/month (depending on usage and location)
- Health Insurance: ~€110/month (mandatory for all residents)
- Personal Expenses (leisure, shopping): €150 – €200/month
- Total Estimated Costs: €800 – €1,000/month
Why Choose This Opportunity?
This fellowship is not just about financial support; it’s a rare chance to live and work in Einstein’s own summer house, surrounded by history and inspiration. It allows you to pursue a unique, cross-disciplinary project in a serene, academic environment, fostering creativity and deep thinking without institutional constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I apply if I’m over 35?
No, applicants must be under 35 at the time of application. - Do I need to speak German?
No, but proficiency in English or German is required. - Can I bring my family with me?
Unfortunately, the fellowship does not cover expenses for dependents, and accommodation is only for the fellow. - Do I need to have a PhD to apply?
No, a university degree is required, but candidates at various educational levels can apply. - What happens after the fellowship ends?
Fellows are expected to present their project results in a public lecture at the Einstein Forum, but there are no further obligations.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
Einstein Fellowship Official Website
