The Heinrich Böll Foundation offers scholarships to international and German students from all disciplines and recognized higher education institutions pursuing Master’s or PhD degrees in Germany. The Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships program supports individuals with strong academic records, leadership potential, and active social or political engagement. Moreover, It funds scholarships for about 1,650 (doctoral) students every year.
The Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships program aims to support future leaders and changemakers with a global perspective. Ideal candidates actively support the values of the Green movement—such as sustainability, democracy, human rights, and social justice—and demonstrate readiness to take responsibility as future leaders and changemakers. Application Deadline: 1 September 2025
University/ Institutions
- Funded by: Heinrich Boll Foundation
- Host country: Germany
- Program Level: Master’s, PhD
- Duration:
- Master’s programs: Typically 2 years
- Doctoral programs: Up to 3 years
- Number of Scholarships: 1,650 (doctoral)
- Deadline: 1 March and 1 September of each year
Study Areas
The scholarship supports a wide range of disciplines, including:
- Humanities & Social Sciences
- Economics & Business
- Law & International Relations
- Environmental Sciences & Sustainability
- STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)
- Art and Media (only if relevant to the foundation’s values)
Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships Benefits
The scholarship covers a range of benefits to help students thrive academically and socially:
- Monthly stipend:
- EU Nationals: up to €812/month + €300 study cost allowance (based on financial need)
- Non-EU Nationals: €934/month + possible individual allowances
- Health insurance allowance and family/childcare allowances ( if Possible)
- Funding available for study-related activities abroad
- Limited tuition fee coverage only in special cases (not in Germany)
- Funding for research trips and internships abroad
- Personal mentoring and access to a vibrant alumni network
Benefits Not Included
- No coverage for visa or residence permit fees
- Tuition fees at private universities are not covered
- Travel costs to Germany are not included
Eligibilities for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
To apply, you must:
- EU Nationals not educated in Germany
- Non-EU Nationals not educated in Germany (note: can apply only at irregular intervals)
- Refugees in Germany (can apply regardless of asylum status)
- Be applying for or already enrolled in a Master’s or PhD program in Germany
- Demonstrate academic excellence
- Show strong commitment to social and political engagement
- Proof of German proficiency at B2 level or DSH 2 required
- Be under the age of 30 (preferred but not strictly required)
- For international students: you must have obtained your university entrance qualification from outside Germany
- Applicants must be pursuing full-time study at a state-recognized university in Germany
- Applicants must submit a certificate of enrollment or university admission confirmation with the application or present it before the selection interview.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Application Form (“Bewerbungsbogen Studienstipendium”)
- Available on the Foundation’s website and application portal
- Fill in personal data, motivation for applying, study interest areas, and social/political engagement
- University Entrance Qualification
- Copy of high school diploma or equivalent
- Certified translation in German or English if needed
- First Degree Certificate
- Certified copy of Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Include translation and grading explanation if not in German system
- Enrollment Certificate (“Immatrikulationsbescheinigung”)
- Must be submitted with application or before the selection interview
- Proof of German Language Proficiency
- Minimum required level: B2 or DSH 2
- Must be included for international applicants
- Media Samples (for specific journalism applicants only)
- Work samples from school, student magazines, local radio, etc.
- Must show actual publication or broadcast
- Personal Reference on Social Commitment (1–2 pages)
- Written by someone who knows your social involvement (not a friend or family member)
- Should come from an organization/institution
- Must be signed and on official letterhead
- Can be uploaded by you or sent by the referee via email
Expert Academic Reference (1–2 pages)
- From a university or college lecturer (preferably at the intended or related institution in Germany)
- Must use the official form (downloadable from the website)
- Should include your academic performance and study interest
- Must be typed, signed (if uploaded by you), or emailed directly by referee
- Note for Refugees
- Refugees can apply at any stage of study
- Should provide available documents, and explain if any references are missing due to conflict area situations
- Documents and Forms:
- Refer to Information Sheets A1-1a (Checklist) and A1-1b (English version) for guidance
- Updated application forms will be available by early June 2025
Selection criteria:
- Strong academic record
- Proven social/political engagement
- Clear motivation for applying
- German proficiency (minimum B2 or DSH 2)
Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships Application Process
Here’s how you can apply:
- Visit the official Heinrich Böll Foundation website
- Register on the scholarship portal
- Fill in the application form and upload all required documents
- Submit documents via online portal: www.boell.de/scholarships
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews
- Final decisions are announced via email
Interview with Liaison Lecturer
- 1-hour interview (in-person, phone, or online)
- Held by a Foundation-appointed lecturer
- Discussion topics:
- Academic strengths and subject knowledge
- Motivation and study goals
- Social and political awareness
- Lecturer writes a report to be added to your application
Stage 3: Digital Interview with Selection Committee
- Final digital interview with 3–4 committee members:
- Includes external experts, current scholarship holder, and Studienwerk staff
- Focus on:
- Academic and professional capability
- Personal values and alignment with the Foundation’s mission
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start your application early to avoid last-minute stress
- Align your motivation letter with the foundation’s core values (democracy, ecology, gender justice)
- Highlight your extracurricular activities and community involvement
- Demonstrate your long-term goals and how this scholarship supports them
- Carefully proofread your application to avoid errors
- Provide strong, personalized reference letters
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Germany
Living in Germany as an international student typically costs:
- Rent (shared flat or dorm): €300–€500
- Food and groceries: €200–€300
- Health insurance: €100–€120
- Public transport and miscellaneous: €100–€150
Estimated Total: €700–€1,000 per month
Why Do You Need to Choose This Opportunity?
This scholarship offers more than just financial support. It opens doors to an active intellectual community, offers opportunities for personal growth, and connects you with like-minded change-makers around the world. If you believe in creating a sustainable and just future, this is your platform to make a difference while earning a world-class education in Germany.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply if I don’t speak German fluently?
A1: No. A B2 level of German is required for most applicants, as programs are often in German.
Q2: Can I apply before receiving my admission letter?
A2: Yes, but you must provide proof of application or acceptance before the scholarship is awarded.
Q3: Is there an age limit for applicants?
A3: While there’s no strict age limit, applicants under 30 are preferred for Master’s programs.
Q4: How competitive is the scholarship?
A4: Very competitive. Only candidates with outstanding academic and social engagement profiles are shortlisted.
Q5: Can I apply if I’m already in my second semester?
A5: Yes, as long as you still have a significant portion of your program remaining.
Official Link for More Details and Application
🔗 Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships – Official Website
