Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Scholarship Programme 2023

A promising future awaits talented young individuals through the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Scholarship Programme 2023. If you are a passionate student striving for excellence in academia, with a commitment to social democracy and justice, this opportunity is tailor-made for you.

Founded with an intention to eliminate social disadvantages and create an accessible academic pathway for talented youth, the FES has a rich history of supporting those who take an active part in shaping a democratic society. Let’s dive into the details of this exciting opportunity.

Historical Background

The promotion of young talent has always been central to the mission of FES. At a time when the social elite dominated academic spaces, the election of Friedrich Ebert as the first president of the Weimar Republic marked a turning point. In 1925, FES awarded the first scholarships to deserving individuals from working-class backgrounds. The spirit of supporting students who actively work for freedom, justice, and social cohesion continues to be a guiding principle of the foundation.

Scholarship Details

FES offers foreign scholarship holders the following:

• Basic Scholarship Programme: €934 per month
• Graduate Scholarship Programme: €1,200 per month
• Family Allowance: €276, if applicable
• Health Care Costs: Full refund

Please note, any income exceeding €400 per month will be credited against the scholarship.

Eligibility Criteria

FES seeks to support foreign applicants who are studying or pursuing postgraduate studies in Germany at the time of application. Here’s what you need to know:

• Students from Specific Regions: Up to 40 students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and Eastern Europe may qualify.
• Exception: Those already receiving support from public sources are ineligible.
• Commitment to Common Good: Academic achievement, social and political involvement, and personal attitudes are essential.
• Supported Fields: All academic subjects, students from public or state-approved universities, and postgraduate programmes (PhD).
• Exclusions: Second-degree courses, study visits outside Germany, final phases of academic studies, postgraduate courses in medicine.

Expectations from Scholarship Holders

FES expects its scholarship holders to:

• Engage Regularly: Participate in seminars and activities of FES campus groups.
• Achieve Excellence: Maintain above-average results in their degree courses.
• Enhance Commitment: Continue and intensify socio-political engagement.
• Provide Semester Reports: Detailing academic performance and social engagement.

Application Process

The application involves several steps:

1. Self-application: Use the “Online-Bewerbung” (application in German only) and a supplementary sheet available here.
2. Individual Interviews: Selected candidates will have two interviews with FES lecturers and scholarship committee members (AWA).
3. AWA Decision: The AWA, comprising experts from various fields, will make the final decision.
4. Written Notification: Applicants will be notified of the AWA’s decision.

For more details, visit the FES Scholarship page (https://www.fes.de/studienfoerderung/other-languages/).

Conclusion

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Scholarship Programme is more than financial aid; it’s an investment in the future of talented individuals committed to social justice, freedom, and democracy. If you align with these values and are ready to make a mark in your field, don’t miss this opportunity.