Study in Germany: Friedrich Naumann Foundation International Students Scholarship 2026

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for International Students is a wonderful opportunity for gifted master’s and PhD students showing academic achievement, leadership potential, and commitment to liberal democratic values.

This distinguished fellowship for overseas students studying at qualified universities in Germany, Switzerland, and other European Union countries is funded by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom. Beyond the financial support of up to €861 a month, scholarship holders receive leadership training, networking opportunities, seminars, and political education programmes that prepare them for future careers in academia, business, public policy, and civil society.

About Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is a German foundation that stands for freedom, democracy, human rights, and political education. The foundation’s scholarship programme aims to support bright students who have a combination of excellent academic achievement, leadership skills, and a desire to make a meaningful impact on society.

The scholarship is aimed at overseas students who are studying full-time for a master’s or PhD degree at a state or state-recognised university or technical institution in Germany, Switzerland, or other EU member states.

Friedrich Naumann Foundation International Students Scholarship Eligible Programmes

Applicants may receive funding for:

1. Master’s degrees (full-time)
2. PhD programs (full-time)

Friedrich Naumann Foundation Fields of Study

The fellowship is open to students in many fields of study, including

• Business
• Economics
• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Political Science
• International Relations
• Law (excluding LL.M.)
• Education
• Social Sciences
• Humanities
• Environmental Studies
• Natural Sciences
• Public Policy
• Arts

Requirements for Friedrich Naumann Foundation International Student Scholarships

Please read the eligibility requirements carefully before applying.

Academic Qualifications

Applicants must:

1. Enrol in a full-time master’s or PhD programme at a state or state-recognized university or technical college.
2. Study in a state or state-recognized university or technical college
3. Demonstrate strong academic performance.

Commitment to Liberal Values

This scholarship is looking for applicants who:

• defend liberal democratic values,
• exemplify civic duty,
• may be able to lead,
• The individual wants to make a positive impact on society.

German Language Requirement

German language skills are among the most required.

• Applicants should note the following:
• Application paperwork must be written in German
• Interviews for selection are done in German
• German language skills are necessary, even if the degree programme is taught in English.

Friedrich Naumann Foundation International Students Scholarship Benefits

1. Monthly Financial Support

• Master’s scholarship applicants may get up to €861 a month to pay their living expenses during their studies. The scholarship is a gift that does not need to be paid back.

2. Health Insurance Contribution

• Participants also receive a contribution to the cost of health insurance, which will help reduce the basic costs of living.

3. Leadership and Political Education

• One of the special features of this scholarship is that it provides access to the educational programs of the foundation, including

1. Leadership development
2. Political education seminars
3. Workshops
4. Conferences
5. Discussion forums
6. Networking events

4. Support for projects and initiatives

• The foundation also offers non-financial support to projects, events, and activities that align with its principles.

6. Flexible Funding Period

• The scholarship is initially provided for one year, with a minimum financing term of two semesters.
• Funding extensions for eligible students may be applied for until the end of their degree programme, provided they continue to make sufficient progress and meet the scholarship terms.

How to Apply for the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship

1. Check Your Eligibility

Please note before you apply:

1. Your degree program is eligible
2. Your university qualifies.
3. You meet the language requirements.
4. You satisfy the academic and personal criteria.

2. Prepare Your Documents

Applicants should bring the relevant documentation, which may include the following:

• academic transcripts
• degree certificates
• curriculum vitae
• motivation letter
• recommendation letters
• proof of university admission or enrollment
• German language documentation

3. Complete the application in German.

• All application materials must be provided and filled out in the German language.
• Applicants are responsible for checking their documents for language accuracy.

4. Attend the Selection Interview

• All applicants must attend a selection interview in German, regardless of the language of their academic programme.

5. Wait for the scholarship decision

• Successful candidates will receive a scholarship and join the foundation’s network of leadership that offers both financial support and access.

Application Deadlines

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation has two main application deadlines each year:

1. April 30th
2. October 31st

CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE

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