Apply now for Heinrich Böll Scholarships in Germany. Fully funded Master’s & PhD programs with monthly stipend, research allowance, and mobility support.
Heinrich Böll Scholarships in Germany
Germany remains one of the most affordable and academically respected destinations for higher education. Among the most competitive funding programs is the Heinrich Böll Scholarship, a fully funded opportunity for international Master’s and PhD students.

Funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Federal Foreign Office, this prestigious scholarship supports academically excellent and socially engaged students who share values of democracy, sustainability, ecology, and social justice.
If you are planning to study in Germany with a monthly stipend, this scholarship could help you secure your future. Apply now and start your journey today.
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Heinrich Böll Scholarships Overview
The Heinrich Böll Foundation awards scholarships to international students pursuing graduate and doctoral degrees at state or state-recognized universities in Germany.
Key Overview Details:
- Host Country: Germany
- Degree Level: Master’s and PhD
- Funding Type: Fully funded scholarship
- Eligible Institutions: State and state-recognized universities
- Application Mode: Online only
- Deadlines: 1 March and 1 September (every year)
- Undergraduate Programs: Not eligible
This scholarship is designed for students who combine academic excellence with social responsibility and leadership potential. Do not miss this opportunity to study in Germany with financial support.
Universities and Study Fields in Germany
The Heinrich Böll Scholarship is not limited to specific universities. Instead, it applies to a wide range of recognized public institutions.
Eligible Universities Under Heinrich Böll Scholarship
The scholarship is valid at:
- All state universities in Germany
- All state-recognized universities in Germany
There is no fixed university list. Applicants must independently secure admission to an eligible German university.
For EU students only, Master’s programs may also be pursued in:
- Switzerland
- Other EU member states
However, non-EU students must study in Germany.
Offered Study Fields for Master’s and PhD Students
The scholarship supports all disciplines offered at state or state-recognized universities.
Eligible fields include:
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental Sciences
- Political Science and Public Policy
- Economics and Business
- Social Sciences
- Law and Governance
- Arts and Humanities
- Natural Sciences
- Interdisciplinary Programs
For PhD applicants, preference may be given to research topics aligned with:
- Sustainability
- Climate change
- Ecology
- Democracy and human rights
- Green innovation
This wide academic coverage makes it one of the most flexible fully funded scholarships in Germany.
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Eligibility Criteria for International Students
Eligibility requirements differ for Master’s and PhD applicants.
Master’s Scholarship Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the Heinrich Böll Master’s scholarship, you must:
- Have earned your university entrance qualification outside Germany
- Hold a recognized Bachelor’s degree
- Apply before starting your Master’s program or during the first semester
- Demonstrate strong academic performance
- Show social or political engagement
- Provide proof of German language proficiency (minimum B2 or DSH certificate)
Without German proficiency, the application will not be considered.
PhD Scholarship Eligibility Requirements in Germany
Doctoral applicants must:
- Have obtained their qualification outside Germany
- Provide proof of admission to a doctoral program at a state or state-recognized university
- Submit a detailed research proposal
- Present a clear research timeline
- Demonstrate completed preliminary academic work
- Provide proof of German proficiency (minimum B2)
Is a Supervisor Required for the Heinrich Böll PhD Scholarship?
Yes, PhD applicants must provide proof of admission to a doctoral program. This typically means:
- A confirmed academic supervisor
- An official admission or acceptance letter
For Master’s applicants, a supervisor is not required. However, university admission is necessary.
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Fully Funded Scholarship Benefits in Germany
The Heinrich Böll Foundation scholarship is considered fully funded because it covers living expenses and additional academic support.
Below is a detailed breakdown of financial coverage.
Master’s Students (Non-EU)
- €934 per month stipend
- Individual allowances (if applicable)
- Possible health insurance coverage
- Tuition fee support in specific cases
- Duration: Regular study period (extendable by one semester)
Master’s Students (EU)
- Up to €812 per month
- €300 monthly book allowance
- Limited tuition fee support outside Germany
PhD Students (Non-EU)
- €1,200 per month stipend
- €100 mobility allowance per month
- Additional individual allowances
- Duration: 3 years (extendable up to 12 months)
PhD Students (EU)
- €1,350 per month basic scholarship
- €100 monthly research cost allowance
- Funding for up to 3 years
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The fully funded opportunity includes:
- Monthly living stipend
- Mobility allowance
- Research allowance (PhD)
- Possible health insurance support
- Academic mentoring
- Networking opportunities
This comprehensive financial support allows scholars to focus entirely on their academic and research goals. Secure your future by applying early.
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Scholarship Duration for Master’s and PhD Programs
The duration depends on the study level.
- Master’s: Standard program duration (usually 2 years), extendable by one semester
- PhD: Normally 3 years, extendable by up to 12 months
Funding aligns with the official academic timeline of your university program.
Required Documents for Heinrich Böll Scholarship Application
Applicants must submit a complete online application.
Documents for Master’s Applicants
- Completed online application form
- Bachelor’s degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of German language proficiency (B2 minimum)
- Curriculum Vitae
- Motivation letter
- Reference letter
- Proof of social engagement
Documents for PhD Applicants
- Completed online application
- Research proposal
- Proof of doctoral admission
- Academic transcripts
- German language certificate
- Expert report
- Reference on social commitment
Incomplete applications are not considered. Apply now and prepare documents in advance.
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How to Apply for Heinrich Böll Scholarships in Germany
Applications are accepted twice per year.
Application Deadlines
- 1 March
- 1 September
The application portal opens approximately six weeks before each deadline.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Review eligibility criteria carefully
- Gather required documents
- Register on the online application portal
- Complete all required sections
- Upload supporting documents
- Submit before the deadline
Only online applications are accepted. No paper applications are allowed. Do not miss this opportunity.
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Why You Should Apply for This Fully Funded Scholarship in Germany
The Heinrich Böll Scholarship is more than financial assistance. It connects scholars to a global network of leaders, policymakers, researchers, and sustainability advocates.
If you are academically strong, socially engaged, and ready to pursue graduate studies in Germany, this is your chance.
Apply now. Start your journey today. Secure your future. Do not miss this fully funded opportunity.