Summary

The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship 2027 is one of the most prestigious and comprehensive, fully funded politically oriented scholarship programs in Europe. Funded by Germany’s oldest social democratic political foundation, it is designed for academically strong domestic and international students who combine intellectual excellence with active civic engagement, democratic values, and a commitment to social justice.

  • Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship 2027 is a prestigious fully funded scholarship in Germany for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD students at recognized universities and technical colleges.
  • 🌍 Open to international and domestic students, including refugees, with rolling applications accepted throughout the year.
  • 💶 Monthly stipend of €850 to cover living expenses, accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs.
  • 🏥 Additional financial support includes health insurance (up to €71/month)full tuition coverageinternational travel expensesresearch funding, and language course support.
  • 💼 Unique 12-month internship program offers hands-on experience in civil society, politics, NGOs, and related sectors, enhancing career prospects.
  • 📚 Available for almost all academic disciplines, including Humanities, Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Economics, Health Sciences, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Education, and more.
  • 🎓 Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance along with a commitment to democratic values, civic engagement, and social justice.
  • 🤝 Active participation in student councils, NGOs, youth organizations, trade unions, or democratic political activities is highly valued during selection.
  • ⚠️ Students receiving BAföG or Deutschlandstipendium may apply, but double funding is not allowed if selected. Previous recipients of German university or foundation scholarships are generally ineligible.
  • 📝 Application process: Submit the online application first; shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide transcripts, CV, recommendation letters, motivation letter, and proof of civic engagement.
  • 📧 Successful applicants are contacted via the email address provided in their application after the Foundation’s evaluation.
  • ⭐ Key advantage: The FES Scholarship combines generous financial support with leadership development and professional experience, making it one of Germany’s most comprehensive scholarship programs.

Scholarship Overview

DetailInformation
Scholarship NameFriedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship
Host Country / LocationGermany
Degree Levels (Designation)Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Monthly Stipend€850 per month
Health Insurance SupplementUp to €71 per month
Application ProcessRolling — can be applied at any time
Eligible ApplicantsInternational and domestic students (including those with refugee status)

Research Area / Available Fields of Study

The scholarship is highly field-inclusive and available across virtually all academic disciplines at recognized German universities and technical colleges, including:

  • Humanities and Social Sciences
  • Political Science and Governance (Core focus area)
  • Law and Public Policy
  • Economics and Business (Socially responsible business lens)
  • Health Sciences, Biomedical Research, Nursing, and Allied Health
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Natural Sciences
  • Education and Teacher Training

Benefits & Job Description (Program Components)

As a scholar, your primary responsibility is to maintain excellent academic standing while continuing your civic engagement. The scholarship functions as a comprehensive financial package and career-building program:

  • Financial Support: A monthly stipend of €850 to cover living expenses, accommodation, food, and transport (extends to cover child support if applicable).
  • Tuition & Fees: Full tuition fee coverage at the enrolled German institution.
  • Health Coverage: Comprehensive international health insurance and a monthly health insurance supplement of up to €71.
  • Academic Travel & Research: Financial support for international travel expenses, fieldwork, research visits, and academic collaborations.
  • Language Support: Funded German or other language courses to aid academic and professional integration.
  • 12-Month Internship Program: A unique, career-integrative component providing funded professional experience within civil society, political organizations, trade unions, or related sectors.

Important Funding Note: Double funding is not permitted. Students already receiving BAföG or Deutschlandstipendium may apply, but must choose if awarded. Previous holders of other German university or foundation scholarships are not eligible.

Eligibility & Qualifications

  • Academic Merit: Candidates must demonstrate strong, top-tier academic performance.
  • Civic Engagement: Active participation in democratic and civic activities (e.g., student councils, youth work, NGOs, trade unions, or political organizations) is a heavily prioritized selection criterion.
  • Inclusivity: Open to both German domestic students and international applicants from any country, including students with recognized refugee status.

How to Apply

The FES Scholarship operates on a continuous, multi-step application system:

  1. Online Application: Complete and submit the initial official application form through the Friedrich Ebert Foundation’s official scholarship portal or via the DAAD scholarship database.
  2. Document Submission: Following an initial review, the Foundation will email you to request supplementary documents.
  3. Prepare Material: Be ready to submit your CV, a motivation letter, academic transcripts, official letters of recommendation, and comprehensive proof/documentation of your civic engagement activities.
  4. Evaluation: Successful candidates will be contacted via their provided email address after the Foundation’s comprehensive evaluation.

Last Date to Apply

Open Now

  • No Fixed Deadline: The scholarship features a rolling application system. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year, meaning you can apply at any time.