Are you a Master’s graduate looking to launch a high-impact career in international cooperation? Do you want to study at a top-ranked university in Germany with a fully funded scholarship? The Centre for Rural Development (SLE) at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin is offering its prestigious, fully funded 12-month postgraduate programme in “International Cooperation for Sustainable Development.”

With over 60 years of tradition, this unique opportunity equips 20 dedicated young professionals each year with the analytical, methodological, and communication skills needed to tackle global challenges. The programme includes an intensive course phase in Berlin and a 3-month practical research phase in partner countries worldwide!

Important Details

• Host Institution: Centre for Rural Development (SLE), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin
• Host Country: Berlin, Germany (with 3 months in a partner country)
• Duration: 12 months (January to December)
• Program Type: Postgraduate / Continuing Education
• Funding Type: Fully Funded
• Eligible Nationalities: Citizens of EU member states and ODA recipient countries (including Afghanistan, Iran, Tajikistan, etc.)
• Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

Financial Benefits

This program is 100% funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Berlin Senate, and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

• A monthly scholarship of €1,300 for the entire 12-month duration (based on the German Young Talent Promotion Act – NaFöG).
• A child allowance of €102.26 for the first child and €51.13 for each additional child (if applicable).
• Extensive networking, professional coaching, and career entry support.

Note: Standard semester fees for enrollment at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin will apply

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the SLE Postgraduate Programme, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Academic Background: Hold a completed Master’s, Diplom, or equivalent degree with good to excellent grades from a relevant discipline (e.g., geosciences, agriculture, forestry, environmental sciences, engineering, political sciences, economics, social or cultural sciences). The degree must be completed by January 2026.
• Language Proficiency: Be proficient in the English language. Additional proficiency in languages such as Arabic, Chinese, German, French, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish is a strong advantage.
• Nationality: Be a citizen of an EU member state or a developing/transition country on the OECD DAC list of ODA recipients.
• Experience: Demonstrate a strong interest in development cooperation (e.g., through internships, work, or study placements abroad).
• Suitability: Possess health suitability for a 3-month stay in countries of the Global South.

How to Apply

Applications for the SLE Postgraduate Programme must be submitted online during the official application period (May 1st to June 30th).

1. Prepare your academic transcripts, CV, and proof of language proficiency.
2. Visit the official SLE application portal to complete your application.
3. Pre-selection will take place in August, followed by main selections in September. The program officially begins in January.

Apply Here: Application Portal

Official Website: For more detailed information, please visit the SLE Official Website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply if I haven’t received my Master’s diploma yet? Yes, but you must have completed your Master’s degree and have the official documentation available by the start of the SLE program in early January.

2. Are applicants from Afghanistan eligible to apply? Yes, Afghanistan is on the OECD DAC list of ODA recipients, making Afghan citizens fully eligible for this scholarship program.

3. Does the scholarship cover the university semester fees? No, the €1,300 monthly stipend is designed to cover your living costs. Participants are responsible for paying the standard semester enrollment fees at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

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