FES Scholarship in Germany 2026 with Monthly Funding for Students and Doctoral Candidates
The application deadline for international master’s students is November 30 for the winter semester and May 31 for the summer semester, while the deadlines for bachelor’s and doctoral students vary depending on the study level and program duration.
Applicant criteria
- 18 - 60
- Both
Opportunity criteria
Opportunity description
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) offers scholarships for international students who wish to study or pursue a doctorate in Germany. The scholarship targets academically outstanding students who are socially engaged, especially those who believe in the values of social democracy, such as freedom, justice, solidarity, and community participation.
The foundation is one of Germany’s StipendiumPlus organizations that support talented students, and it provides both financial and non-financial support for students and doctoral candidates from various academic disciplines.
Benefits
- Monthly funding of EUR 992 for international students in bachelor’s, master’s, diploma, or state examination programs.
- Coverage of health insurance costs for accepted students.
- Additional support of EUR 160 per month for students with children, according to the applicable conditions.
- Monthly funding of EUR 1,500 for international doctoral students, in addition to statutory health insurance support.
- Doctoral funding usually lasts 3 and a half years and may be extended in justified exceptional cases.
- The scholarship does not need to be repaid after completing the studies.
- Non-financial support, including seminars, workshops, training, personal mentoring, and networking programs.
- An opportunity to join a wide network of students and alumni of the Friedrich Ebert Foundation.
Eligibility criteria
- The applicant must be an international student already studying at a public or recognized university in Germany.
- The applicant must have initial study results or documented university grades.
- The applicant must have an excellent level of German language proficiency, even if the study program is taught in English.
- The applicant must have above-average academic performance.
- The applicant must show clear social, political, or voluntary engagement.
- The applicant must align with the values of social democracy, which focus on freedom, justice, and solidarity.
Required Documents
- Online application form.
- Detailed CV/resume including education, experience, and social engagement.
- Letter of motivation explaining the reason for applying for the scholarship.
- Copies of certificates and transcripts.
- Proof of enrollment at a German university.
- Two recommendation letters from university professors, or from teachers for applicants at the beginning of their studies.
- Research proposal or exposé for doctoral students.
Explore the Top PhD Scholarships Worldwide in 2026: Your Complete Guide to Academic Funding
Explore Outstanding and Diverse Master's Scholarships
Read Also: How Do I Apply for a Free Scholarship