Masters, PhDFully Funded Closed 8997 days ago

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung awards financial grants to highly-qualified undergraduate and doctoral students from Germany and abroad who evidence high levels of social and political engagement. In granting scholarships, the Stiftung seeks to counteract the social, political and gender discrimination prevalent in our society, and therefore gives preference to applications from women, students of non-academic and migrant backgrounds, the socially needy, and people with disabilities who demonstrate comparable achievements and commitment. Applications from undergraduate and doctoral students from scientific and technical disciplines are actively encouraged, as well as from graduates of technical colleges.

Provider: Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung
Host country: Germany
Deadline: 1 April / 1 October (two annual rounds)
Region: Europe

Official source

Topics

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships is open to African students applying to study in Germany at the Masters, PhD level, with fully funded funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Masters, PhD · applicants for Germany
Funding: Fully Funded
Study level: Masters, PhD
Deadline: 1 April / 1 October (two annual rounds)

Key eligibility criteria

Citizen or permanent resident of an eligible African country
Currently applying to or enrolled at the Masters, PhD level
Willing to study in Germany
Strong academic record — typically a minimum GPA equivalent to a UK 2:1 / US 3.3

See full eligibility criteria ↓

What the fully funded award covers

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare

About the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships (2026)

## Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships: Comprehensive Brief for Prospective Applicants ### Overview The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung offers scholarships to highly qualified undergraduate and doctoral students from both Germany and abroad. The foundation emphasizes social and political engagement, actively seeking to counteract societal discrimination. Therefore, preference is given to applicants from underrepresented groups such as women, students from non-academic and migrant backgrounds, the socially needy, and individuals with disabilities, provided they demonstrate comparable achievements and commitment. The scholarship program encourages applications from students in scientific and technical disciplines, as well as graduates of technical colleges. The selection process highlights academic excellence, political and social engagement aligned with the Stiftung's goals, German language proficiency (B2 level or above), and personal/family background. The application process is direct, with eligibility requirements and forms available online in German. The scholarships are fully funded, supporting Masters and PhD level studies. ### Benefits Recipients of the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung scholarship receive financial grants to support their studies. Beyond financial assistance, the program offers a comprehensive range of additional support designed to foster political education, personal development, and academic growth. Scholarship holders can participate in political education events, summer schools, workshops both domestically and internationally, symposia, and educational trips. Practical training is also provided in areas such as rhetoric, conflict management, time and self-management, academic qualifications enhancement, text and writing workshops, and specific methodological seminars. A significant aspect of the program is the emphasis on self-organization among scholarship holders and their working groups. The department is supported by over 250 academic confidants, as well as the larger network and employees of the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation. ### Eligibility Eligibility for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung scholarships varies based on the type of scholarship, but all applicants must demonstrate high scholarly and professional qualifications, political and social engagement in line with the aims of the foundation, and German language proficiency of B2 level or above. Considerations are also given to personal and family background. * **International Scholarships (Master only):** Available for foreign students pursuing a Master's degree who are temporarily residing in Germany for study or research. Applicants from other EU countries are also eligible. These students must be enrolled at a state or state-recognized German university, plan to return to their home country after completing their education, and, if in a state examination or diploma course, must have completed their basic studies. * **PhD Scholarships:** Open to domestic and foreign PhD students from all disciplines, with the exception of medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. Doctoral students must be accepted at a German university. * **Study Scholarships (for German and specific international students):** Funding is for students from all disciplines and state-approved higher education institutions who meet the requirements of §8 of the German Federal Law on Education and Training (BAföG). This includes German passport holders, immigrants with permanent residency prospects, and limited funding for students from other EU member states. Scholarships can be awarded from the second semester onwards, with duration and funding based on BAföG regulations. * **Lux Like Studium:** This specific program supports German students and a portion of international students meeting special criteria as specified in §8 of the BAföG regulations. It is designed for school students from non-academic backgrounds, providing financial support from the first semester to facilitate university admission and completion. ### Required Documents The official page states that information on eligibility requirements and application forms can be found on the applications page, which is only available in German. It also explicitly mentions that these documents cannot be sent by post. While a comprehensive list of specific required documents is not provided in the English-language truncated text, applicants should anticipate needing to provide documentation that verifies: * **Academic Achievements:** Proof of above-average academic performance at school and/or university. * **German Language Proficiency:** Certification of B2 level or above. * **Political and Social Engagement:** Evidence of involvement that aligns with the aims of the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung. * **University Enrolment/Acceptance:** For Master's students, proof of enrolment in a state or state-recognized German university. For PhD students, acceptance at a German university. * **Personal/Family Background:** Documents that may support consideration for preferential treatment (e.g., non-academic background, migrant status, disability, social need). Applicants should consult the German applications page for a definitive and detailed list of all necessary documents. ### How to Apply The application process for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung scholarships operates on the principle of direct application. Prospective applicants must visit the foundation's website and navigate to the "scholarship application" page. It is critical to note that this page, which contains detailed information on eligibility requirements and the application forms, is exclusively available in German. Applicants are encouraged to consult this German-language page for precise instructions and to access the necessary forms. The foundation explicitly states that application documents cannot be sent by post. Therefore, all submissions are expected to be made electronically or via the specified online platform. Additionally, there are telephone consultation hours for applicants on Tuesdays (10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) and Thursdays (2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.), with an additional Wednesday slot in September (2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.), where further guidance may be obtained. ### Key Dates The primary deadline for applications is **1 October** each year. This deadline is for grants that commence in the summer semester of the following year, which begins on **1 April**. The official page mentions two annual rounds, implying another deadline which is not precisely indicated for a full explanation of the second round but the mention of a second deadline implies there is one. Applicants should also be aware of the telephone consultation hours for applicants: Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Wednesdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. (September only), and Thursdays from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is highly recommended to check the official (German) application page for any updates or specific deadlines related to different scholarship types or additional application rounds. ### Selection Criteria The selection of scholarship recipients is based on several key criteria, with a strong emphasis on aligning with the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung's aims of social justice and political engagement: * **High Scholarly and Professional Qualifications:** Applicants must demonstrate above-average academic achievements at both school and university levels. This is a fundamental requirement for all scholarship types. * **Political and Social Engagement:** A crucial criterion is the applicant's active political and social engagement that resonates with the goals and values of the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung. This commitment should be evident in their past and ongoing activities. * **German Language Proficiency:** Applicants must possess German language skills at a B2 level or higher to be considered. This enables effective participation in the academic and political discourse within Germany and the foundation's activities. * **Personal/Family Background:** The foundation actively seeks to counter discrimination and promote diversity. Therefore, applicants from women, students with non-academic or migrant backgrounds, socially needy individuals, and people with disabilities who show comparable commitment and achievements are given preference. * **Diversity in Disciplines:** Applications from undergraduate and doctoral students in scientific and technical disciplines are particularly encouraged, as are those from graduates of technical colleges, alongside students from all other fields (except for specific exclusions for PhD scholarships). ### Tips * **Prioritize German Language:** Since the application forms and detailed guidance are in German, and B2 proficiency is required, invest time in improving your German language skills. This is critical for both the application and the scholarship experience. * **Highlight Engagement:** Clearly articulate your political and social engagement in your application. Provide concrete examples that demonstrate alignment with the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung's values. * **Show Academic Excellence:** Ensure your academic records clearly showcase above-average performance. If you have research experience or publications, make sure to highlight them. * **Consider Your Background:** If you belong to a group that the Stiftung prioritizes (women, non-academic background, migrant background, socially needy, people with disabilities), ensure this is clearly communicated in your application, demonstrating how your experience has shaped your commitment and achievements. * **Start Early:** Given the comprehensive nature of the application and the potential need for document translation or certification, begin the process well in advance of the October 1st deadline. * **Utilize Consultation Hours:** If you have questions, take advantage of the telephone consultation hours provided by the scholarship department. This can offer direct clarification and insight. * **Explore the German Website:** Even if you primarily use the English site, be prepared to navigate the German-language sections, especially the application page, as it contains essential, detailed information. ### Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships, please refer to the official website: [https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk](https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk) For detailed application information and forms, which are only available in German, please visit: [https://www.rosalux.de/stiftung/studienwerk/stipendienbewerbung/](https://www.rosalux.de/stiftung/studienwerk/stipendienbewerbung/) The scholarship department can also be contacted via email at studienwerk@rosalux.de or by phone at +49 30 44310-223 during their consultation hours.

What the Fully Funded Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Full tuition
Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships eligibility for Germany applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Citizen or permanent resident of an eligible African country
Currently applying to or enrolled at the Masters, PhD level
Willing to study in Germany
Strong academic record — typically a minimum GPA equivalent to a UK 2:1 / US 3.3
English-language proficiency demonstrated by IELTS, TOEFL or an MOI letter
Two academic or professional references able to speak to your potential
Demonstrated financial need (most fully funded sponsors verify household income)

Documents required for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Research proposal or statement of purpose (500–2,000 words for PhD)
Published or unpublished writing sample (PhD and research-led Masters)
Financial-need declaration or family-income statement (sponsor-specific template)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk and verify your country, level of study and English-language status against the current call. Sponsor rules change between intakes — never rely on third-party summaries alone.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Identify a supervisor whose research aligns with yours, exchange emails, and either obtain a conditional offer or confirmation that they will host your project. Many Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung awards require this before the funding application opens.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a focused 1,000–2,000-word research proposal and a separate personal statement. Tailor every paragraph to the sponsor's stated priorities — generic recycled essays are the most common reason strong applicants are rejected.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Aim to have the full draft complete by 2 Aug 2001. Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by 1 April / 1 October (two annual rounds) (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours before the 1 Oct 2001 deadline. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships deadline & application timeline

Working backwards from the sponsor's stated deadline (1 April / 1 October (two annual rounds)). Dates assume a smooth, single-attempt timeline — start earlier where you can.

12 months out
6 Oct 2000
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
4 Apr 2001
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
3 Jul 2001
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
1 Sept 2001
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
1 Oct 2001
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Masters, PhD level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, and be able to relocate to Germany for the duration of the programme.

Is the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships fully funded?+

Funding model: Fully Funded. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is 1 April / 1 October (two annual rounds). Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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