The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2027 will next accept international graduate applications from 15 January to 1 March 2027. Eligible students who completed their first degree abroad may apply before starting a Master’s programme in Germany, subject to the Foundation’s current applicant-group rules, German-language requirements and programme conditions.
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2027
The Heinrich Böll Foundation supports academically strong and socially engaged students who align with its emphasis on democracy, ecology, human rights, participation and social responsibility. For international graduate students, the programme can support eligible Master’s study at a state or state-recognised university in Germany.
| Scholarship provider | Heinrich Böll Foundation |
|---|---|
| Study level | Master’s / graduate study |
| Host country | Germany |
| Spring 2027 application period | 15 January–1 March 2027 |
| Fall 2027 application period | 15 July–1 September 2027 |
| Application method | Online through the Foundation’s scholarship portal |
| Current status | Upcoming |
Who Can Apply?
The Foundation’s current international graduate-scholarship information states that international students who completed their first degree abroad may apply before beginning a Master’s degree in Germany.
- You should already hold a first professional academic degree, such as a Bachelor’s degree.
- You should apply before starting the Master’s programme under the international graduate route.
- The Master’s programme must be at a state or state-recognised university in Germany.
- The Foundation currently states that it funds Master’s programmes with a standard duration of four semesters or more under this route.
- Students from all academic disciplines may apply, subject to the current programme rules.
- Priority is given to applicants from DAC countries who have not yet taken up residence in Germany at the time of application.
- Strong academic performance, civic/social engagement and alignment with the Foundation’s values are central to selection.
Scholarship Funding
The amount depends on the applicant’s funding category and personal circumstances. The Foundation does not use one universal monthly rate for every Master’s scholar.
| Non-EU international students funded by the Federal Foreign Office | Current base scholarship: €992 per month, plus a health-insurance allowance of up to €100 and possible additional components depending on individual circumstances. |
|---|---|
| Possible additional non-EU support | May include reimbursement of tuition fees in Germany up to €10,000 per year, German-language course fees, fixed fringe benefits, family allowance and child allowances where applicable. |
| EU / BMFTR-funded study support | Funding is calculated under the applicable German/BMFTR framework and may depend on parental income, personal assets or earnings; it should not be described using the €992 non-EU rate. |
| Funding duration | Normally the standard period of study, subject to the Foundation’s current scholarship conditions. |
The previous CareerAidHub figure of €934 per month is no longer current for the non-EU international graduate category; the Foundation now lists €992 per month.
German-Language Requirement
International applicants must demonstrate good or very good German proficiency. The Foundation’s current information specifies at least:
| Minimum German level | B2 or DSH 2, with appropriate proof/certificate under the current international graduate requirements. |
|---|---|
| Why German matters | The Foundation’s scholarship programme includes seminars, engagement and selection activities in a German academic and civic context. |
Applicants should not assume an English-taught Master’s degree removes the Foundation’s separate German-language requirement.
How to Apply for the Spring 2027 Round
- Confirm that you meet the current international graduate eligibility rules.
- Prepare your first-degree documentation and Master’s study plan.
- Gather the Foundation’s required application forms and supporting documents.
- Prepare evidence of academic achievement and social or civic engagement.
- Obtain the required academic expert report and reference on social commitment in the prescribed format.
- Register in the online application portal after it opens on 15 January 2027.
- Upload all required information and documents.
- Submit the complete application by 1 March 2027.
Selection Process
The Foundation describes a multi-stage selection process rather than a decision based only on grades.
| Stage 1 | Written application and formal review. |
|---|---|
| Stage 2 | Interview with a liaison lecturer / trusted academic representative. |
| Stage 3 | Interview with the Foundation’s selection committee. |
Assessment considers academic performance together with civic engagement, political/social interest, motivation and the applicant’s fit with the Foundation’s objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Heinrich Böll Scholarship 2027 open now?
Not yet. The Spring 2027 portal opens on 15 January 2027 and closes on 1 March 2027.
How much does the scholarship provide?
For eligible non-EU international Master’s scholars funded through the Federal Foreign Office, the Foundation currently lists a €992 monthly base scholarship plus possible additional support. Other applicant groups use different funding rules.
Do I need German-language proficiency?
Yes. The current international application information requires German proficiency at least at B2 or DSH 2 level.
Can I apply after starting my Master’s degree?
The current international graduate route states that applicants who completed their first degree abroad should apply prior to starting a Master’s degree in Germany.
Is there another application round in 2027?
Yes. The Foundation currently lists a second window from 15 July to 1 September 2027.
Official Heinrich Böll Foundation Sources
| Next application window | 15 January–1 March 2027 |
|---|---|
| Second 2027 window | 15 July–1 September 2027 |
| Current non-EU international base scholarship | €992/month |
| German-language requirement | At least B2 / DSH 2 |
| Last verified | 4 October 2026 |
