Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes Fellowships Renewal Process 2026
Renewal Guidelines & Conditions
For undergraduate and Master's studies, funding is typically awarded for the entire standard period of study. For doctoral scholarships, funding is initially granted for three years. Upon application and subject to successful progress, the scholarship may be extended for up to six months, with a maximum funding period of 42 months. For scholarship holders with children, this period can be extended to up to 54 months. Previous periods of doctoral funding will be deducted from the maximum funding period.
Key Renewal Prerequisites
- Must pass the previous annual/semester examination in the first attempt.
- No active backlogs or ATKT are permitted in most professional programs.
- Must maintain regular class attendance (typically 75% or higher) validated by the college.
FAQs for Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes Fellowships
Q.Are international students eligible for the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes Fellowships for study in Germany?
Yes, international students can be eligible, especially for doctoral scholarships where nationality is irrelevant if the PhD is pursued at a German university. For undergraduate and Master's programs, students with citizenship of an EU member state or an EU accession candidate who are studying permanently in Germany and aiming for a degree here can apply. Additionally, 'educational residents in Germany' (e.g., those with a German Abitur) are eligible regardless of nationality.
Q.What does the scholarship primarily cover?
The scholarship primarily provides financial support through a monthly study costs allowance (€300) and a need-based living expenses stipend (up to €855/month for students, €1,750/month for PhD candidates). It also offers extensive 'ideal' support, including a network of seminars, summer academies, language courses, and mentoring. Subsidies for health insurance and additional allowances for scholars with children are available. Tuition fees are generally not covered for public universities in Germany as they are often free, but some support for tuition fees can be provided for studies abroad.
Q.Is there a minimum GPA or percentage required to apply?
While no specific percentage or GPA is strictly stated for all programs, applicants are expected to demonstrate 'outstanding academic success' or 'above-average academic performance.' For doctoral scholarships, it is generally desired that applicants are among the top 10% of their year in terms of examination grades. The selection process emphasizes not only grades but also intellectual ability, motivation, social commitment, and extracurricular interests.
Q.When are the application deadlines for 2026/2027?
For self-applications by first and second-semester students, the registration period for 2026 typically runs until early February (e.g., February 12, 2026). For doctoral scholarships, there are multiple 'calls' for applications throughout the year. The schedule for 2026/2027 includes calls opening in October 2026, February 2027, June 2027, and October 2027, with corresponding selection meetings and earliest scholarship start dates in 2027 and 2028.