Foerderkolleg der Stiftung fuer die Wissenschaft

What you get

The Förderkolleg gives you support in kind rather than a monthly payment. You join a nationwide talent network run by the German savings-bank group (Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe), the group behind the local Sparkasse banks. You get access to seminars and workshops at regional and national level, study trips abroad, and travel grants towards internships or study periods abroad that you organise yourself. The focus is on building soft skills and personal development alongside your degree. At the end of your studies you receive a detailed written reference, and you stay connected through the network and its alumni association (former members who keep in touch). Taking part costs nothing, neither for you nor for your bank.

Who can apply

• Level: You study for a Bachelor's, Master's or doctorate.
• Link to a savings bank: You have a connection to the Sparkassen-Finanzgruppe. This means a Sparkasse, a Landesbank (a regional state bank) or a partner organisation. Often you trained or work there.
• Field of study: Law, economics and social sciences fit directly. Other subjects are possible, but your bank must explain why your studies are relevant to the savings-bank group.
• Commitment: You are ready to get involved and take on responsibility during your studies, for example by helping organise events or taking a role in your local group.

How to apply

You apply by email, either through your bank or on your own. If you apply on your own, you must add a letter of recommendation from a savings-bank institute. There are two rounds a year: the deadline is 1 February for the summer semester and 1 August for the winter semester. Everyone then goes through a selection colloquium in the last week of March or September. It tests your motivation and includes a short specialist presentation you prepare yourself, not your grades.

How realistic are your chances?

This programme is cut narrowly. You can only apply if you have a real link to a savings bank or its partners, so the pool is limited to people already inside that world. If that describes you and your bank backs your application, your prospects are good. The selection looks at motivation and engagement rather than top marks, so a genuine wish to get involved counts for more than a perfect transcript.