The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for international students aiming to pursue Undergraduate, Master’s, or Ph.D. degrees in Germany. Administered by the Friedrich Ebert Foundation, affiliated with the Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD), this scholarship supports students who demonstrate academic excellence, social and political engagement, and a strong commitment to the values of social democracy.
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship Overview
Host Country: Germany
Offered By: Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES)
Degree Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D.
Fields of Study: All disciplines offered at state or state-recognized universities in Germany
Number of Awards: Approximately 40 annually
Duration: Standard period of study (with possible extension)
- Application Deadlines: Varies by program
Also Read: Fully Funded Schwarzman Scholars Program 2026-2027
Participating Institutions & Eligible Countries
- Applicants can apply to all state or state-recognized universities and polytechnical colleges (Fachhochschulen) in Germany
- Open to students from all countries, with a focus on those from the Global South (Asia, Africa, Latin America), former CIS states, and Eastern and Southeastern Europe
Eligibility Criteria
Above-average academic performance in previous studies
Active involvement in social, political, or community services aligned with the values of social democracy
Proficiency in German (minimum DSH level 2, TestDaF level 4, or Goethe Zertifikat C1), even if the course is taught in English
Admitted or enrolled in a state or state-recognized higher education institution in Germany
Demonstrated political thinking, intellectual curiosity, tolerance, openness, team orientation, critical thinking, and self-reflection
Scholarship Coverage
Monthly Stipend of Applicants with German Education:
Up to €855 for Bachelor’s, Master’s, Diploma, Magister, or state examination programs
€1,550 (1,650 euros per month from October 2025) for Ph.D. programs
Monthly Stipend of Foreign Applicants:
€992 for Bachelor’s, Master’s, Diploma, Magister, or state examination programs
€1,400 for Ph.D. programs
- Monthly research allowance of €100 (Applicants with German Education)
Health insurance coverage
Family allowance of €160 per month for scholars with children
Support for study-related costs (e.g., books, language courses)
Opportunities for internships, networking, and mentorship programs
Participation in academic seminars and workshops on social democracy
Note: The scholarship is a grant and does not require repayment.
Also Read: Fully Funded DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026-2027
Required Documents
Completed online application form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation letter
Proof of German language proficiency
Admission letter or proof of enrollment
Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates
Two reference letters from university professors or former teachers
Research proposal (for Ph.D. applicants)
Application Process
Submit the online application form
If eligible, you will be requested to submit additional documents, including reference letters and academic records
First Interview: You will be invited for a subject-specific interview with a trusted advisor
- Second Interview: If selected, you will be invited to an interview with a member of our selection committee
The selection committee will make the final decision regarding the scholarship award
Application Deadline
Master’s Programs: Before or at the beginning of the first semester of the Master’s program
Until May 31, 2025 (Summer Semester)
Until November 30, 2025 (Winter Semester)
Bachelor/Diploma/Magister Programs: After the 1st semester, up to 3 semesters before the end of the standard period of study
Medical Students: After the 4th semester or after Physikum until the end of the 6th semester
Ph.D. Programs: Up to approximately two years before submission of the dissertation (thesis)
