Summary

The Hanns Seidel Foundation invites international students, PhD researchers, and journalism-focused candidates to apply for its funded scholarship program in Germany. Beyond strong academic performance, this scholarship specifically seeks individuals with a demonstrated commitment to social responsibility, active community service, and democratic values.

  • 🎓 Hanns Seidel Scholarships 2027 are now open for international students, PhD researchers, and journalism-focused applicants to study or conduct doctoral research in Germany.
  • 🌍 Host Country: Germany | Funded by: Hanns Seidel Foundation.
  • 👨‍🎓 Degree Level: Primarily PhD, with support available for eligible international students and journalism candidates.
  • 💰 Scholarship Benefits:
    • Up to €992/month stipend.
    • €1,650/month for doctoral scholars.
    • €300/month study allowance.
    • Up to €102/month health insurance subsidy.
  • 📚 Selection Criteria: Strong academic performance, leadership, social responsibility, volunteer work, and commitment to democratic values and community service.
  • 🤝 Volunteer Experience is highly valued, including civic engagement, student leadership, educational volunteering, youth initiatives, and public-interest activities.
  • 📝 Required Documents: Application form, degree certificate, academic transcripts, passport, CV/Resume, personal statement, academic references, and supporting documents.
  • 🗞️ Journalism Applicants can apply by submitting up to five journalism work samples (TV, radio, multimedia, or written content).
  • 🇩🇪 Language Requirement: Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level German proficiency (or equivalent); applications without proof of German language skills will not be considered.
  • ✅ Eligibility: Open to applicants of all nationalities with excellent academic potential, a clear study/career plan, and evidence of voluntary social engagement.
  • 📅 Application Window: 15 December 2026 – 15 January 2027.
  • 💻 How to Apply: Submit an online application, arrange academic recommendation letters before the deadline, and ensure all academic and volunteer documents are complete.
  • ⏰ Tip: Prepare your application early, as incomplete submissions are not accepted and documented volunteer activities play a significant role in the selection process.

Designation

  • Undergraduate Students
  • PhD / Doctoral Researchers
  • Journalism Candidates & Media Professionals

Key Details

ParameterDetails
Host OrganizationHanns Seidel Foundation (Hanns-Seidel-Stiftung)
Award CountryGermany
Degree LevelUndergraduate, PhD, Journalism Support
Financial CoverageFunded (Monthly Stipend + Allowances)
Eligible NationalitiesAll Nationalities
Application WindowDecember 15, 2026 – January 15, 2027

Research Area / Academic Fields

  • Open to All Disciplines: Applicable to various study programs in Germany.
  • Special Tracks: Specific support for PhD dissertation research and civic/media journalism.

Location

Germany (at recognized German higher education institutions or research facilities)


Eligibility & Qualification Requirements

  • Academic Merit: Strong academic potential and clear academic/career goals.
  • Language Proficiency: Minimum B2 level proficiency in German (official proof is mandatory; applications without German proficiency will not be accepted).
  • Voluntary Work & Social Commitment: Proven track record of unpaid participation in public life, community service, youth initiatives, student leadership, or social campaigns.
  • PhD Candidates: Must possess a completed dissertation proposal, academic references, and proof of social commitment.
  • Journalism Candidates: Must provide up to 5 links or work samples (TV, radio, print, or multimedia projects).

Program Benefits & Financial Coverage

  • Undergraduate/Student Stipend: Up to €992 per month
  • Doctoral Stipend: €1,650 per month
  • Study Allowance: €300 per month
  • Health Insurance Subsidy: Up to €102 per month

How to Apply

  1. Prepare Documents: Gather your degree certificates, academic transcripts, updated CV/resume, personal statement, valid passport, and official proof of German language proficiency (B2 minimum).
  2. Document Civic Engagement: Ensure all volunteer activities and community involvement are documented, as unverified engagement will not be considered.
  3. Recommendation Letters: Request and secure letters of academic recommendation in advance.
  4. Online Application: Submit your completed application through the official online portal within the active application window.

Last Date to Apply

  • Application Window: December 15, 2026, to January 15, 2027