Finding a scholarship
In addition to “BAföG”, (mini-)jobs or private means of financing there is also the option to get support from a scholarship. Scholarships are usually given from foundations, which have different goals, profiles, and selection criteria (e.g., students with a migration background, special scholarships for women, etc.).
The foundations can be roughly divided into three categories: those affiliated with political parties, trade unions, or religious organizations. Membership of a particular party, trade union or church is not usually required, but rather identification with their goals.
Finding the right foundation takes time. There are many eligibility criteria that applicants should meet. Thorough research is worthwhile! Your chances of receiving support are significantly higher with a foundation that matches your profile.
The simple answer is yes, everyone is eligible for a scholarship. You don’t necessarily need to have a very good grades in university-entrance diploma or the best academic performance in your studies to apply for a scholarship.
Foundations are looking for committed students who are actively involved with social, societal and/or political areas. Commitment besides the studies can be shown, for example, through active participation in youth organizations, university groups, parishes of students, students councils or other honorary work. Even a part-time job, such as a mini-job, can raise a student's profile.
Further selection criteria are, among others, origin, age, social situation (low income, family backgrounds, financial need), place and field of study, as well as gender.
Your overall profile is requested.
There are various forms of scholarships.
The monthly amount of scholarship depends on the respective foundation; it’s often higher than the maximum “BAföG” rate, but can be also only in the form of money for books.
Besides the financial support, many foundations offer a so-called non-material support. This accompanying program for further education and networking includes seminars, workshops, working groups, etc. These provide a very good basis and contacts for transitioning into the job market after graduation.
- Research: Start your research as early as possible to find a suitable foundation for you. Ask yourself the following questions: Does the foundation suit me in terms of objectives? Do I support its goals? Do I fulfil the formal criteria? Be sure to pay attention to application deadlines, as there are often two application periods per year.
- Online application: In addition to research on your own, there is now also the option to register online and find a suitable scholarship with the help of search engines. You can also apply directly online with your documents.
- Application: Once you know to which foundations you would like to apply to, you should inform yourself about the formalities of the application, i.e. you should organize the required documents and proof. Often, a written application, CV and motivation letter are asked for. These application materials should relate individually to the foundation and its goals.
- Selection of applications: After you have sent the application, you will need to wait for the further procedure. Often the selection involves personal conversations and group discussions.
We recommend you:
www.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/en/
www.mystipendium.de/ (only in German)
www.arbeiterkind.de/studium-finanzieren/stipendien (only in German)
www.chancenstiftung.de (only in German)
www.stipendienkompass.de/english.html
Usually the universities award the “Deutschlandstipendium” or other scholarships. Therefore, it is also worth searching for the term “scholarship” at your own university.
Our Social Counselling service offers advice on scholarships and how to apply for them.
Additional information on scholarships can be found on the websites of “Arbeiterkind” (in German) and scholarship information service of Stipendienkompass. “Stipendienkompass” also offers a telephone advice service.