Ökumenische Stiftung Jerusalem - Scholarship for studies in Jerusalem

What you get

The Jerusalem Ecumenical Foundation covers your tuition of 5,000 EUR for the entire academic year of theological study in Jerusalem. This is an eight-month intensive programme, running roughly from August to April. It takes place at the Benedictine Abbey of the Dormition on Mount Zion and combines biblical studies, archaeological excursions, interfaith encounters and communal living. The Foundation awards this European scholarship each year to a theology student from an Eastern European faculty.

The scholarship covers tuition fees only. You will have to cover the costs of accommodation and meals (approximately 1,300 EUR per month), as well as travel expenses and a language course, yourself.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are at a faculty of theology in Eastern Europe.
• Degree: You are enrolled in a full theology degree, for example a Magister Theologiae, a church qualification, or a teaching or BA/MA programme with theology.
• How far along: You must have completed at least four academic semesters before the start of the academic year.
• Foundations: You have passed the introductory seminars in biblical subjects with good results.
• Language: You have a good command of English, as some of the lessons and the exam are conducted in English.
• Attitude: You are open to dialogue between churches and faith communities and will play an active part in community life.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online via the DAAD application portal, which opens approximately six weeks before the application deadline. There is no separate form for the Europe Scholarship, as selection takes place as part of the standard procedure. If you are shortlisted, you will attend a selection interview at the DAAD in Bonn. This comprises a language test or a presentation, as well as a 30-minute subject-specific interview before a selection panel.

How realistic are your chances?

This scholarship is very limited in scope: only one theology student from an Eastern European faculty is selected each year. The pool of eligible applicants is small, but the number of scholarships available is equally limited, and the selection process is rigorous. If you clearly meet the academic requirements, have completed four semesters and perform well in the interview as well as in the language or presentation section, your chances are good. Prepare thoroughly, as the selection committee will ask questions covering various areas of theology.