The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship 2025-26 in Germany offers outstanding international students from the Global South, post-Soviet states, and Eastern/Southeastern Europe the opportunity to pursue Bachelor’s or Master’s or PhD degrees at German universities.
Each year up to 40 students are awarded FES sponsorship’s to Study Free in Germany. The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship is fully funded scholarship emphasizes academic excellence and a commitment to social democracy. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with specific deadlines on 30 November 2025.
University/Institutions
- Host Institutions: All state or state-recognized universities in Germany
- Location: Across Germany
- Ranking: Varies by university (Germany has top-ranked universities like TU Munich, LMU Munich, Heidelberg University, etc.)
- Programs Supported:
- Bachelor’s (Undergraduate degrees)
- Master’s (Graduate degrees)
- Diploma and State Examination Courses
- Duration:
Study Areas:
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship encompasses a wide range of fields, such as:
- Social Sciences
- Arts
- Natural Sciences
- Humanities
- Life Sciences
- Engineering
- Technology
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Business
- Sports
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship Benefits:
- Monthly Stipend:
- €750 for Bachelor’s, Diploma, Magister, or State Examination programs
- €850 for Master’s programs
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage is provided.
- Family Allowance: Scholars with children receive an additional €276 per month.
- Study-Related Costs: Financial support for materials like books and language courses.
Benefits Not Included:
The scholarship does not cover travel expenses, visa fees, or personal leisure activities.
Eligibility Criteria for Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship:
For Undergraduate & Master’s:
- Admission or enrollment at a state-recognized German university
- Foreign students must prove sufficient German language skills
- First-year students must apply before or at the start of their first semester
For PhD:
- Unconditional admission to a doctoral program in Germany
- Foreign students must prove German language proficiency
Academic & Personal Requirements:
- Excellent academic performance
- Active social or political engagement (aligned with social democracy values)
- Responsible, motivated, and reliable individuals
- Sufficient German knowledge, even if courses are in English
Required Documents:
- For First-Year Students: Two reports from high school or vocational school teachers
- For Students Beyond First Semester: Two expert reports from university professors.
- For Doctoral Candidates: A report from the dissertation supervisor and an additional expert report from another university professor.
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet academic, language, and social commitment requirements.
- Online Registration: Create an account and submit the application on the Friedrich Ebert Foundation portal.
- Submit Required Documents: Upload academic transcripts, recommendation letters, and proof of social engagement.
- Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed for eligibility and completeness.
- Interview Invitation: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview (online or in person).
- Final Selection: Successful applicants receive a scholarship offer.
- Acceptance & Enrollment: Accept the offer and enroll in a German university.
Tips for a Successful Application:
- Understand the Values: Familiarize yourself with the principles of social democracy.
- Highlight Involvement: Emphasize your social and political engagements.
- Showcase Leadership: Demonstrate leadership roles and community impact.
- Prepare Thoroughly: Ensure all documents are complete and well-organized.
- Seek Feedback: Have mentors or peers review your application before submission.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany:
On average, international students in Germany may incur the following monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: €300 – €500
- Food: €200 – €250
- Health Insurance: Covered by the scholarship
- Transportation: €100 – €150
- Miscellaneous: €100 – €200
- Total estimated monthly expenses range from €700 to €1,100.
Why Choose This Opportunity?
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship not only provides comprehensive financial support but also fosters personal and professional growth through mentorship and networking opportunities. It encourages scholars to engage in social and political activities, promoting the values of democracy and social justice. Studying in Germany offers access to world-class education and a multicultural environment, enhancing both academic and life experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Is proficiency in German mandatory for all courses? Yes, sufficient knowledge of German is required, even if some courses are conducted in English.
- Can students from any country apply? The scholarship is open to students from the Global South, post-Soviet states, and Eastern/Southeastern European countries.
- Does the scholarship cover tuition fees? Yes, scholars benefit from free education at accredited state universities in Germany.
- Are doctoral programs eligible for this scholarship? Yes, the scholarship supports Bachelor’s, Master’s, Diploma, and state examination programs.
- How many scholarships are awarded annually? Up to 40 scholarships are awarded each year.
Official Link for More Details and Application:
For comprehensive information and to apply, visit the official Friedrich Ebert Foundation scholarship page:
