Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship 2026–27
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom Scholarship supports academically strong, socially engaged international students from non-EU countries who are pursuing a full-time Master’s or PhD in Germany.
- FundingUp to €934/month for student funding; up to €1,200/month for…
- DurationInitially 1 year; renewable subject to conditions
- Who can applyNon-EU applicants
- Application feeNone
Overview
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom provides scholarships to talented students who demonstrate very good academic performance, strong personal qualities and visible social or liberal-minded commitment.
For international applicants from non-EU countries, funding is available for Master’s and doctoral studies at eligible universities in Germany.
The Foundation does not fund:
- Bachelor’s programmes for non-EU applicants
- Second degrees
- Part-time programmes
- Postdoctoral programmes
- Internships
- Separate study or research stays abroad
- Projects such as standalone travel subsidies
- Studies in the final phase where the minimum funding period cannot be met
- Tuition fees at private universities.
At a glance
About
- Opportunity type
- Scholarship
- Host country
- Germany
- Duration
- Initially 1 year; renewable subject to conditions
- Study mode
- Full-time
- Details
- Information
- Provider
- Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom
- Next application window
- April 1–30, 2027
- October application window
- October 1–31, 2026
- Selection conference
- Usually late February
- Next application window
- April 1–30, 2027
Funding
- Funding
- Up to €934/month for student funding; up to €1,200/month for doctoral funding
- Application fee
- None
- Funding
- Usually begins at the start of the following semester
- Health insurance
- Monthly contribution available
Eligibility
- Study level
- Master’s, PhD
- Nationality
- Non-EU applicants
- Age limit
- None
Who can apply
International applicants from non-EU countries can apply if they:
- Are pursuing or planning a full-time Master’s or PhD in Germany
- Have strong academic performance
- Demonstrate social commitment and a liberal, cosmopolitan outlook
- Have at least two semesters remaining at the start of funding
- Meet the Foundation’s German-language requirements
- Meet the relevant university admission requirements.
International applicants generally need to provide:
- Online application
- Academic certificates and records
- Details of their planned/current study programme
- Two university professor references
- Evidence of social or voluntary commitment
- Other supporting documents requested through the application portal
References are submitted through a link generated by the Foundation’s application system.
How to apply
- Apply through the Friedrich Naumann Foundation’s online application portal.
- Upload the required documents.
- Arrange for the required references to be submitted through the Foundation’s system.
- Wait for the pre-selection decision.
- If shortlisted, participate in the selection interview.
- The selection committee makes the final decision.
The Foundation evaluates applicants on three equally important areas:
- Academic performance
- Strong personality
- Visible social commitment
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a selection conference and personal interview. International applicants who are still outside Europe may be offered a video interview.
What does the scholarship cover?
For international students, the Foundation currently lists:
- Up to €934 per month for student funding
- Up to €1,200 per month for doctoral funding
- A contribution toward health and long-term care insurance
- Funding initially granted for one year, with possible extensions
- Scholarship payments do not have to be repaid
The exact amount and additional benefits depend on the applicant’s funding category and circumstances.
Is it fully funded?
It provides substantial monthly financial support, but the Foundation does not state that all study and living expenses are covered. In particular, travel and accommodation expenses for the selection conference are not reimbursed.
Hidden Charges and Fees
| Expense | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship application fee | No fee stated |
| Tuition at private universities | Not covered |
| Selection conference travel | Not reimbursed |
| Selection conference accommodation | Not reimbursed |
| Health insurance | Contribution provided |
| Other living expenses | Not fully covered |
Applicants should therefore budget for expenses that are not covered by the scholarship.
Minimum Degree Required
Master’s applicants: A relevant Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification required for admission to the Master’s programme.
PhD applicants: A relevant Master’s degree and acceptance into an eligible doctoral programme.
Work Experience
There is no general minimum work-experience requirement stated for international student applicants.
Academic performance, personality and social commitment are important selection criteria.
Nationality
The scholarship is intended for foreign applicants from non-EU countries.
Indian applicants can therefore be considered under the international applicant category, subject to all other eligibility requirements.
German Language Requirement
This is an important requirement for international applicants.
The Foundation states that application documents must be submitted in German, and the selection interview is also conducted in German. B2-level German is essential for participation in the Foundation’s non-material programme.
Official Links
Final Note
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship is a strong option for academically excellent international students planning a Master’s or PhD in Germany, particularly those who can demonstrate meaningful social commitment. However, applicants should pay close attention to the German-language requirement and should not assume that the scholarship covers all living and travel expenses.
Frequently asked questions
Can Indian students apply?
Yes. Indian applicants fall under the Foundation’s non-EU international applicant category, provided they meet the other requirements.
Can I apply before receiving university admission?
Yes. The Foundation states that applicants can apply without admission, provided they enter their desired university and upload the relevant admission application. Enrolment must be presented later during the selection process.
Does the scholarship have to be repaid?
No. The scholarship does not have to be repaid.
Is there an application fee?
No application fee is listed by the Foundation.
Is German mandatory?
Yes. German is required for the application and selection process, and B2-level knowledge is essential for participation in the Foundation’s non-material support programme.
Can MBA students apply?
No. The Foundation’s current FAQ specifically lists MBA programmes among the programmes that are not funded.
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