The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships 2026–27 are among the most prestigious fully funded scholarships in Germany, designed for outstanding students who wish to pursue Master’s or PhD programs at top German universities without financial stress. Named after the Nobel Prize–winning German writer Heinrich Böll, this scholarship is not just about academics—it is about leadership, social responsibility, sustainability, democracy, and human rights.
Funded by the Heinrich Böll Foundation, which operates through a strong global network of over 30 international offices, this scholarship supports more than 1,000 students every year. It is open to international students, EU citizens, and German nationals across almost all academic fields. If you dream of studying in Germany for free while becoming part of a global community of changemakers, this opportunity is one you should not miss.
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Contents
- 1 Eligibility Criteria for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 2 Benefits of Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 3 Documents Required for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 4 How to Apply for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 5 Last Date to Apply for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 6 Contact Details for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- 7 How This Scholarship Helps Selected Students
- 8 Top 5 Common Mistakes Applicants Make (And How to Avoid Them)
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- 9.1 Q1: Can I apply for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship without a university admission?
- 9.2 Q2: Is this scholarship available for all academic fields?
- 9.3 Q3: Do I need German language proficiency if my program is in English?
- 9.4 Q4: Are private universities in Germany covered under this scholarship?
- 9.5 Q5: How competitive is the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship?
- 10 Overview of Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships 2026
Eligibility Criteria for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the applicant’s background and level of study.
General Requirements (All Applicants)
- Excellent academic record
- Strong social commitment and political awareness
- Alignment with the foundation’s core values:
- Democracy and human rights
- Ecology and sustainability
- Social justice
- Self-determination
- Willingness to actively participate in foundation activities
For European Union (EU) Students
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree (first degree certificate)
- German language proficiency certificate (B2 level or DSH-2)
- Proof of enrolment at a German university (can be submitted by the selection interview stage)
For Non-EU Students
- Must not have previously studied in Germany
- Proof of Bachelor’s degree
- German language proficiency (B2 level or DSH-2)
- Proof of enrolment at a German-recognized university before studies begin or by the interview stage
For Doctoral (PhD) Applicants
- Official admission or supervision confirmation for a PhD program at a German or state-recognized university
- Proof of German language proficiency (for non-German applicants)
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Benefits of Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity covering most living and academic needs.
Key Benefits
- Master’s students receive approximately €934 per month to cover living expenses
- Doctoral candidates receive higher monthly stipends, depending on their research needs
- Additional financial support for:
- Family allowances
- Travel costs
- Research projects
- Academic mobility
- Funding is provided for the entire duration of the degree program
- Access to:
- Mentorship programs
- Leadership workshops
- Seminars on sustainability, democracy, and social justice
- Membership in a global alumni and professional network
- Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees, making this scholarship highly cost-effective
Note:
- Health insurance is not automatically included but may be partly covered through allowances
- Extra personal living costs beyond the stipend are not covered
Documents Required for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
For Master’s Applicants
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts and records
- Copy of Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Motivation letter
- References
- Statement outlining political interests and social commitments
- Statement explaining chosen field of stud
- Proof of German language proficiency (B2 or DSH level)
For PhD Applicants
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Motivation statement
- References
- Statement of political and social engagement
- Detailed PhD research proposal (maximum 10 pages)
- Thesis outline
- Research timeline (up to 1 year)
- Proof of German language proficiency
How to Apply for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
Follow these steps to apply for the scholarship:
- Click on the “Click Here To Apply” button provided at the end.
- Carefully review the scholarship details provided.
- Complete the application form and ensure all required information is accurately filled out.
- Attach the necessary documents as specified in the scholarship requirements.
- Finally, click the “Submit” button to submit your scholarship application.
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Last Date to Apply for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
- Last Date to Apply is 01 March 2026
Contact Details for Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships
Please contact this eamil for any queries studienwerk@boell.de

How This Scholarship Helps Selected Students
- Removes financial barriers to studying in Germany
- Allows full focus on academics and research
- Builds leadership and policy-oriented thinking
- Encourages active participation in social and environmental causes
- Provides international exposure and career-long networking
- Strengthens academic and professional credibility globally
Top 5 Common Mistakes Applicants Make (And How to Avoid Them)
- Weak Motivation Letter
Avoid it: Clearly connect your academic goals, social commitment, and values with the foundation’s mission. - Ignoring German Language Requirements
Avoid it: Secure B2 or DSH-2 certification well before applying. - Incomplete Documents
Avoid it: Double-check document lists and upload all required files in the correct format. - Late Application Submission
Avoid it: Prepare documents early and submit at least a few days before the deadline. - Not Demonstrating Social Engagement
Avoid it: Clearly explain your involvement in community service, activism, sustainability, or political initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship without a university admission?
You may apply, but proof of enrolment or an offer letter from a German-recognized university must be submitted by the selection interview stage at the latest.
Q2: Is this scholarship available for all academic fields?
Yes, the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship is available for almost all disciplines, including sciences, engineering, humanities, social sciences, and arts.
Q3: Do I need German language proficiency if my program is in English?
Yes. The foundation requires German language proficiency (B2 or DSH-2), regardless of the program’s teaching language.
Q4: Are private universities in Germany covered under this scholarship?
Public universities are preferred and usually tuition-free. Limited funding may apply for private institutions, but tuition is generally not covered.
Q5: How competitive is the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship?
It is highly competitive. Strong academics, clear social commitment, political awareness, and alignment with the foundation’s values significantly increase your chances.
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Overview of Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships 2026
| Scholarship id | CPSA26020900998 |
| Scholarship Name | Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships 2026 for PG and PhD Students |
| Scholarship Open for | Boys & Girls |
| Scholarship Offered by | Government of Indonesia through the Ministry of Education, Culture, Research, and Technology (Kemitraan Negara Berkembang Program). |
| Who can Apply ? | International students from developing countries holding the required previous degree (High School for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s for Master’s, Master’s for PhD), within age limits and English proficiency, can apply. |
| Location of Students eligible | World Wide |
| Scholarship Benefits | Financial Assistance |
| Last Date to Apply | 01 March 2026 |
| Application Link | Click Here To Apply |








