Heinrich Boll Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Levels: Masters/PhD Degree| Deadline: 1 Mar/1 Sep 2023 (annual)

The Heinrich Böll Foundation awards some scholarships to international students who gained their university entrance qualification from a school outside of Germany who wish to study a Masters or PhD Degree in Germany.

Host Institution(s):

State or state-recognized Universities in Germany.

Level/Field(s) of Study:

The scholarships are towards Masters Degree or PhD Degree in all subjects offered at state or state-recognised universities in Germany.
For EU students, Master’s Degree courses at state or state-recognised universities in Germany, Switzerland, and other EU member states are possible.

Scholarship value/inclusions/duration:


Masters Studies:

  • Non-EU students: €934 per month plus various individual allowances, possibly health insurance; tuition fees are in certain cases possible in Germany.
  • EU students: varies, max. €812 plus €300 book money per month; tuition fees not possible in Germany but possible to a limited extent in other countries.
  • The scholarship is awarded for the regular period of study, may be extended by one semester.

PhD Studies:

  • Non-EU students: €1,200 per month plus €100 mobility allowance per month, plus various individual allowances; tuition fees are not possible.
  • EU students: €1350 per month basic scholarship plus €100 per month research costs allowance; tuition fees are not possible in Germany but possible to a limited extent in other countries.
  • The scholarship is awarded for three years as a rule (two years, may be extended at most by 12 months)

Eligibility Criteria:

  • You may apply before commencing your Masters programme or at any time up to the end of the first semester of the Masters programme.
  • Proof of first professional qualification must be provided
  • Required proof of German Proficiency: Level B2 or DSH 2 (with certificate)

Application process:

  • For details of application requirements and procedures, please consult information sheet A 1
  • 1 (“scholarship application for undergraduate and graduate students”, PDF) or A 2-1 (“scholarship application for doctoral studies”). The online application portal closes on 1 March or 1 September (for PhD studies only).
  • It is important to visit the official website (link found below) for details on how to apply for this scholarship.