Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships 2026
About this scholarship
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships support high-achieving and socially engaged students in Germany, including international applicants, at undergraduate, master's and doctoral level.
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships are offered by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, a major German political foundation committed to social democracy, equal opportunity and educational access. The programme supports talented students and doctoral researchers who demonstrate strong academic performance together with social or political engagement and a commitment to the foundation’s values.
The scholarships are primarily intended for study at state or state-recognised higher education institutions in Germany. Support is available for different study stages, commonly including undergraduate, master's and doctoral study. In addition to financial assistance, scholars typically benefit from a broad non-financial support programme such as seminars, networking opportunities and academic or personal development activities.
Funding usually helps with living costs, and in some cases may include health insurance support or family-related allowances depending on the applicant’s circumstances and status. The exact package can vary by study level and personal situation, so applicants should check the current call and guidance before applying.
The programme is open to German applicants as well as international students already qualified to study in Germany, provided they meet the academic and language expectations for their chosen course. Applicants are generally expected to show excellent promise, a clear sense of social responsibility, and active involvement in civic, social or political life.
Applications are typically made directly to the Friedrich Ebert Foundation through its scholarship portal or application system. Because deadlines and eligibility details can vary by applicant group and study stage, candidates should consult the official programme page for the latest information before applying.
Eligibility
Who can apply for this scholarship
Applicants are generally expected to have strong academic achievement, admission to or enrolment at a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany, and a proven record of social, civic or political engagement. The scholarship is aimed at candidates who identify with the values of social democracy. International applicants are typically eligible if they are studying in Germany and meet the programme’s academic and language expectations.
Requirements
Documents typically needed to apply
Language requirements
Sufficient German language ability is typically expected for international applicants.
Where you can use this
Open positions accepting Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships.