Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung - Ausländische Studienförderung

Friedrich Naumann Foundation scholarship for non-EU students

You will receive a monthly grant to fund a Master’s degree or the main phase of a degree programme leading to a state examination at a German university. The state examination is a state-recognised qualification taken in subjects such as law and medicine. The Foundation initially awards the scholarship for one year. It can be renewed on an annual basis until you graduate and does not need to be repaid. In addition to the monthly scholarship, you may receive further benefits as set out in the guidelines of the Federal Foreign Office: a flat-rate travel allowance, an annual lump-sum grant, contributions towards health and long-term care insurance, family allowances for a partner or children, German language course fees for up to one year, a rent allowance and support with the publication of your Master’s thesis. The scholarship is administered by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom with funding from the Federal Foreign Office. You will also become part of its network, which offers events, excursions and alumni contacts.

Who can apply

• Where you're from: You are from a non-EU country and obtained your university entrance qualification abroad.
• Degree level: You are currently enrolled on a Master’s degree programme or are in the main phase of a state examination. Bachelor’s degrees, second degrees and postgraduate programmes are not eligible for funding.
• Type of study: You are studying full-time at a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany. Part-time and distance-learning courses are not eligible for funding.
• Timing: You still have at least two semesters left until you graduate.
• Field of study: Open to all disciplines.
• Grades: Your academic performance is good to very good.
• Engagement and values: You are committed to social or charitable causes and have an open, liberal outlook on life.

How to apply

Applications are submitted via the Foundation’s online portal, which opens twice a year: from 1 to 30 April and from 1 to 31 October. If your written application passes the pre-selection stage, you will be invited to a one-to-one interview with an independent selection panel. These interviews take place towards the end of February and at the end of August.

How realistic are your chances?

This scholarship is aimed exclusively at students from non-EU countries who are already studying for a Master’s degree or preparing for the state examination in Germany, which limits the pool of applicants. Grades alone are not the decisive factor. The foundation attaches just as much importance to personality and genuine social commitment as it does to academic achievement, and expects a liberal, open-minded attitude that aligns with its values. If you clearly meet the academic requirements and can demonstrate genuine commitment, your prospects are good. It is advantageous to apply during one of the two specified application windows and to prepare your references well in advance.