Study in Germany: Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students 2026/2027
If you are an international student looking for scholarships to study in Germany, the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship can reduce the financial burden of postgraduate education and also offer you an opportunity to be a part of an academically inclined community of an international nature.
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships provide financial help to outstanding international students who have already obtained their university entry qualification outside Germany and who desire to study at a German state or state-recognised university.
The scholarship is available to students from various fields of study, especially those who are interested in social issues and the foundation’s goals and who have achieved excellent academic results.
What is the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship?
The Heinrich Böll Foundation offers scholarships for international students who have received their university admission qualification outside of Germany and want to study for a master’s or doctoral degree.
The programme aims at academically strong students with other attributes, such as social responsibility, commitment, and interest in wider social concerns.
Who Can Apply for the Heinrich Böll Scholarship?
The scholarship is for foreign students, including those from the EU and outside the EU, who have not studied in Germany.
Applicants must, however, satisfy the conditions applicable to their level of study and category of nationality.
Requirements for the Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students
General requirements for applicants to the master’s programs
International master’s students who received their higher education admission qualification outside Germany are usually required to:
- Have a recognised first professional or academic qualification.
- You can apply before the master’s programme starts or, if allowed, by the end of the first semester.
- Meet the admission requirements of your chosen university and master’s programme.
- Provide the required proof of competency in the German language.
- Demonstrate academic promise and suitability for the scholarship.
- Complete the scholarship application and attach the necessary supporting documentation.
German Language Requirement
- Applicants for the master’s scholarship must have an acceptable certificate of proficiency in the German language at the B2 or DSH 2 level.
- Language requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant and the programme. Students should consult the current foundation information.
Requirements for PhD students
Applicants seeking doctoral scholarships are subject to extra requirements.
PhD candidates should:
- Have admission to a PhD programme at a state- or state-recognised university.
- Submit proof of acceptance into a PhD programme with their application.
- By the time the submission deadline arrives, they should have completed preparatory work on their research project.
- Realistic timeline for completion of PhD research.
- Demonstrate the relevant academic and scientific credentials.
- Meet the German language skills required.
- Explain the academic value and aims of their research clearly.
Heinrich Böll Scholarships Eligible Programmes
The scholarship can be used for master’s and PhD studies in any topic at qualified state or state-recognized universities in Germany
- STEM and Technology
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Natural Sciences
- Environmental Sciences
- Information Technology
- Social Sciences
- Political Science
- Sociology
- Economics
- International Relations
- Development Studies
- Humanities
- History
- Philosophy
- Languages
- Cultural Studies
- Literature
- Law and Public Policy
- Law
- Public Administration
- Governance
- Public Policy
- Health and Related Disciplines
- Medicine
- Public Health
- Health Sciences
It is advised to verify the latest scholarship regulations before applying.
Benefits of Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship is a monthly monetary reward. The exact amount varies depending on the student’s level of study and nationality.
Benefits for Master’s Students
Non-EU Students (Master)
Students outside the EU can receive:
- Up to €934 monthly
- Various individual allowances, as appropriate
- Potential health insurance support
- Tuition costs can be supported in Germany under certain situations.
EU Master Students
EU students can apply for:
- Up to €812 per month
- Another €300 a month for books.
Benefits of a PhD Scholarship
- Doctoral students often receive more financial support.
PhD students from outside the EU
Non-EU doctorate researchers may receive the following:
- €1,200 per month
- €100 mobility allowance per month
PhD Students in the EU
EU PhD students may receive:
- €1350/month
- research cost allowance of €100/month
How to apply for Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students?
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, confirm that:
- You are eligible based on your nationality and educational background.
- You are applying for an eligible master’s or PhD programme.
- Your university is a state-recognised institution.
- You meet the relevant language requirements.
- You meet the admission requirements for your chosen programme.
Step 2: Obtain University Admission (if needed)
- In general, PhD applicants must provide documentation of acceptance into a doctoral programme.
- Applicants for a master’s degree may apply before commencing their programme or, according to applicable requirements, in the early part of their master’s studies.
Step 3: Arrange your documents.
Prepare all the necessary documentation in advance.
Depending on your level of study and circumstances, these could include:
- Academic records, college transcripts
- Proof of admission/enrollment
- Certificate in German
- Summary
- Purpose statement
- Academic citations
- Research proposal and timeline (PhD candidates only)
- Evidence of Social and/or Political Engagement
- Other papers requested by the foundation
Step 4: Fill out the Online Application
- Students are required to complete the relevant online scholarship application.
Step 5: Submit your application before the due date.
The online application will close on:
1 March, or
1 September for PhD applications only
CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
