The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom offers a distinguished scholarship program specifically designed to support recognized refugees pursuing their first degree at state or state-recognized universities in Germany. This initiative underscores the foundation’s commitment to fostering education and integration, providing invaluable support to those who have sought refuge and are striving to build a better future through higher education.

Important Details:

Key Details

Application period:

• April 1-30
• October 1-31

• Location: Germany
• Institution: State or state-recognized universities
• Levels Supported: Undergraduate and Master’s programs
• Target: Refugees

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Scholarship Benefits:

Scholarships offer the following benefits;

• Monthly Stipend: All scholarship recipients receive a monthly lump sum of €300 to cover study-related expenses.
• Additional Financial Support: Scholarships are calculated in accordance with the guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, based on the Federal Education Promotion Act (BAföG). Notably, unlike BAföG, these scholarships do not require repayment.
• Study Abroad Subsidies: The foundation offers subsidies for studying abroad for up to 12 months, promoting global academic exposure.
• Flexible Funding Duration: Funding is initially granted for one year, with the possibility of annual extensions until graduation. The minimum funding period is two semesters at the scholarship’s commencement, and the maximum aligns with the standard period of study as per BAföG, concluding with the final examination.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants of Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom scholarship for refugees must meet the following conditions:

•  Applicants must be recognized refugees.
• Educational Status:
  • Prospective students are about to obtain their (technical) high school diploma and intend to commence university studies.
  • Individuals who have already obtained their (technical) high school diploma and wish to pursue university education.
  • Candidates who have completed vocational training in addition to their (technical) high school diploma and now aim to study at a university.
  • Students who have already begun their university studies.
  • Individuals currently enrolled in a Master’s program, noting that the minimum funding period is two semesters at the time the scholarship begins.

Required documents:

Applicants must submit the following documents in German or English as PDF scans (max. 5MB per document category):

1. Curriculum Vitae (max. two pages)
2. Identification Document (passport or ID; non-EU applicants must include visa/residence status)
3. University Admission/Enrollment Certificate (high school graduates can submit later but must provide it before scholarship admission)
4. Diploma/Degree Certificate (e.g., high school diploma for bachelor’s applicants or bachelor’s certificate for master’s applicants; interim report acceptable if the diploma is pending)
5. Academic Transcripts (e.g., Table of Records, bachelor’s certificate if applicable; not required for high school graduates)
6. Certificates of Vocational Training/Professional Activity (if applicable)
7. Letters of Reference:
   • High school graduates: Two letters from teachers
   • University freshmen (1st semester): Preferably two letters from university professors or scientific staff
   • Students (2nd semester and above): Two letters from university professors/scientific assistants

Reference Submission: Once registered, applicants receive a submission link to share with reviewers. The reviewers must submit the letters directly. Links can be generated up to 4 months before the application portal opens.

Application Process:

To apply for this scholarship, follow the following steps:

1. Prepare Application Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including proof of refugee status, academic transcripts, and any other required certifications.
2. Complete the Online Application: Visit the Friedrich Naumann Foundation’s official scholarship portal and fill out the application form with accurate and comprehensive information.
3. Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents as specified in the application guidelines.
4. Adhere to Deadlines: Ensure that the application and all supporting materials are submitted before the specified deadlines.

Apply now

For detailed information and access to the application portal, please visit the official scholarship page

This scholarship represents a significant opportunity for recognized refugees aiming to pursue higher education in Germany. It offers both financial support and the prospect of academic and personal growth.