Summary
The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung (Heinrich Böll Foundation) offers scholarships for international graduate and PhD students from DAC (Development Assistance Committee) countries. With a focus on fostering equal opportunities and equitable access to education, this program provides financial backing, professional development, and access to a strong alumni network for those pursuing a Master’s or PhD program in Germany.
Master’s & PhD Scholarships: Heinrich Böll Foundation in Germany
Designation
Master’s Scholar / PhD Scholar
Quick Facts Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Study Level | Master’s Degree, PhD |
| Target Group | International students from DAC countries |
| Funding source | Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) & Federal Foreign Office (AA) |
Export to Sheets
Research Area
Research Area: Open to all academic disciplines, prioritizing candidates with a strong socio-political commitment to ecology, democracy, and human rights.
The scholarship is generally open to students across all disciplines and subjects who are pursuing their Master’s or PhD, though the foundation places a strong emphasis on candidates who show a strong socio-political commitment (such as involvement in environmental sustainability, democracy, or human rights).
Location
Germany (The foundation’s headquarters are located at Schumannstraße 8, 10117 Berlin, Germany, but scholars can study at state or state-recognized universities across Germany).
Eligibility/Qualification
The program primarily targets international students from DAC countries who have not yet taken up residence in Germany at the time of their application:
- For Master’s Students: Must have successfully completed their first academic degree (e.g., a Bachelor’s degree) outside of Germany prior to starting a Master’s degree program in Germany.
- For PhD Students: Must have completed their graduate degree (e.g., a Master’s degree) outside of Germany and are applying for or beginning a PhD program in Germany.
Job Description (Scope of the Scholarship)
As a scholar of the Heinrich Böll Foundation, candidates will receive:
- Financial Support: Funding to cover living expenses and study costs while pursuing their degree in Germany.
- Event Program and Support: Access to a comprehensive program of events, including workshops and seminars focusing on academic growth, socio-political topics, and personal development.
- Networking: Integration into the foundation’s extensive alumni network and partnership programs to foster lifelong connections and professional opportunities.
How to Apply
- Review the application information sheets and guidelines provided on the foundation’s website.
- Download the respective application form:
- Application for students (PDF) (Link available on the official site)
- Application for PhD (PDF) (Link available on the official site)
- Prepare all required application documents.
- Submit your application online through the application portal during the official application periods.
For more assistance, candidates can contact the Scholarship Department at studienwerk@boell.de or via phone at +49 (0) 30 285 34-400.
Last Date for Apply
The foundation accepts applications during specific application windows:
- Fall 2026 Intake: 15 July 2026 – 1 September 2026
- Spring 2027 Intake: 15 January 2027 – 1 March 2027






