Heinrich Böll Foundation Student Scholarship 2027

Applications Are Now Open

Heinrich Böll Foundation supports socially involved, politically interested young people who are committed to the causes, goals, and values of the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung worldwide: democracy and human rights, ecology, sustainability, gender equality and anti-discrimination, and the arts & culture. 
They support up to 1,600 graduate and PhD students from all disciplines, including up to 100 international students and PhD candidates primarily from DAC countries, in their pursuit of Master's degree or PhD in Germany.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Interview Process
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineSeptember 1, 2026
• Study LevelMasters , PhD
• SponsorHeinrich Böll Foundation
• School to study
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

Scholarships for graduate students

• a base scholarship in the amount of 992 € / month
• a health insurance allowance of up to 100 €
• other optional financial components, which may vary depending on the scholar's personal situation, including 
  →  reimbursement of tuition fees in Germany of up to 10,000 € / year
  →  tuition fees for German language courses
  →  fixed fringe benefits in the amount of 38 € / month
  →  family allowance and child allowances (per child)

Scholarships for PhD candidates

• a base scholarship in the amount of 1,500 € / month
• health insurance: up to 200 € / month
• other optional financial components, which may vary depending on the scholar's personal situation, including 
  → reimbursement of tuition fees in Germany of up to 10,000 € / year
  → tuition fees for German language courses
  → fixed fringe benefits in the amount of 38 € / month
  → family allowance and child allowances (per child)

Requirements

Students: 

• International students who have completed their first degree abroad can apply prior to starting a Master's degree program in Germany. 
• Priority is given to applicants from DAC countries who have not yet taken up residence in Germany at the time of their application. 

PhD students: 

• International PhD students who have completed their graduate degree abroad may apply for a PhD program in Germany. 
• Priority is given to international applicants from DAC countries who have not yet taken up residence in Germany at the time of their application. 

Selection Process

The Heinrich Böll Foundation follows a structured and competitive evaluation process:

• Online submission of the application and required documents
• Interview with a Liaison Lecturer (conducted online)
• Invitation to a selection workshop in Berlin, including interviews and group discussions
• Final evaluation based on academic performance, research quality, and demonstrated social commitment

Due to the program’s prestige, candidates are assessed holistically, with equal emphasis on academic excellence and civic engagement.

Application Documents

Applicants must prepare a complete and well-organized application file.

For Master’s Applicants

• Updated curriculum vitae (CV)
• Two academic or professional reference letters
• Official academic transcripts
• Motivation letter outlining academic and social goals
• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Statement of political interests and social involvement
• Summary of intended field of study
• Proof of German language proficiency

For PhD Applicants

• Updated CV
• Two academic or professional references
• Completed personal data form
• Academic transcripts and Master’s degree certificate
• Detailed motivation letter
• Statement of political and social engagement
• Structured outline of the doctoral thesis
• Comprehensive research proposal (up to 10 pages)
• One-year research plan or timeline
• Proof of German language proficiency

Submitting complete and accurate documentation significantly strengthens an application.

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Applications are made via the Application Portal. 

  Please do not wait until the last day to submit your application to avoid overloading the system. You may submit your application as soon as your documents are complete. 

For more information, kindly visit the Heinrich Böll webpage.