Scholarship • Germany

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship

The Heinrich Böll Foundation, Germany's Green political foundation, funds around 1,200-1,500 students and roughly 200 doctoral candidates per year through its scholarship programme, supporting both German and international students of any discipline at any recognised German higher education institution. International applicants who completed their first degree abroad can apply for funding before starting a Master's programme in Germany, with priority given to candidates from DAC-listed countries who have not yet relocated to Germany. PhD candidates who completed their graduate degree abroad are also eligible to apply for doctoral funding. Monthly stipends are EUR 992 for Master's and undergraduate-equivalent students and EUR 1,400 plus a EUR 100 mobility allowance for PhD students, with possible family and childcare allowances and health insurance support layered on top. Beyond financial support, the Foundation runs a politically engaged scholar community centred on its core values: democracy, environmental sustainability, gender equality, and human rights, with access to seminars, an alumni network, and in some cases opportunities for international conferences and exchange placements. Selection criteria include strong academic performance, demonstrated political interest and social engagement, and a convincing personal case for why the applicant identifies with the Foundation's mission. Good to very good knowledge of German (minimum B2 or DSH2) is required of all international applicants. Applications open twice yearly, roughly six weeks before each deadline; the Fall 2026 application window runs from 15 July to 1 September 2026, with a further Spring 2027 window opening 15 January 2027.