Overview & Scholarship Summary
The DAAD–Rosa Luxemburg Foundation scholarship is a fully-funded program aimed at international Master’s and PhD students committed to social justice, democratic socialism, and political engagement.
- Master’s: Scholarships available for full-time Master’s-level study in Germany.
- PhD / Doctoral Research: Financial support for both complete doctoral studies and research stays in Germany.
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
Key Dates & Duration
- Application deadlines: April 1 and October 1 annually.
- E.g., for funding beginning April 2026, apply by October 1, 2025.
- Scholarship period:
- Master’s: Up to the standard duration (typically 2 years; extension possible)
- PhD: Usually 2 years, extendable twice (plus allowances for illness, parental leave).
Eligibility Requirements
Master’s Applicants
- Enrolled in or accepted to a publicly accredited German university.
- Outstanding academic records, above-average grades.
- Political and social engagement aligned with Rosa Luxemburg Foundation values.
- German language proficiency: minimum B2 (or strong English and motivation for German studies).
PhD Applicants
- Admission or supervisor approval at a German doctoral program, or research stay credentials for non-German dissertations.
- Similar scholarly performance and social-political engagement standards as for Master’s.
- German proficiency at least B2 .
- Fields: any except medicine, dentistry, veterinary medicine.
Benefits & Support
Master’s Level
- Monthly stipend: approximately €850–934.
- Lump sum for study-related expenses (~€20–300).
- Coverage for health insurance (up to €86).
- Support for seminars, workshops, political education events.
PhD Level
- Monthly stipend: €1,200–1,450 (typically €1,350 + €100 research lump sum).
- Additional allowances: health care subsidies, mobility allowance (€100).
- Funding for research trips, conference attendance, stays abroad.
- Ideal for international researchers, whether for full PhD or research visits.
Required Documents
- Completed application form (online portal – in German).
- Curriculum vitae
- Academic transcripts & degree certificates
- Proof of university admission (Master’s) or doctoral acceptance/supervisor approval (PhD).
- Motivation letter & evidence of political/social engagement.
- Language certificates (German B2 at minimum—no funding for language courses).
- For PhD: research exposé, supervisor’s expertise, possibly travel plan for research stay applications .
- Passport, visa documents, possible additional items depending on region (e.g., North Africa) .
How to Apply
- Check deadlines: April 1 and October 1 annually.
- Gather documents listed above.
- Register and apply via the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung portal (in German; see local foundation office guidance).
- Scholarship start: April or October, depending on application round.
Important Notes
- No double funding: Cannot combine with other public scholarships (BAföG, unemployment benefits, etc.).
- Language courses not funded: Applicants must fulfill language requirements before applying.
- Public universities in Germany generally do not charge tuition; semester fees (~€250–350) must be covered by the student.
- The DAAD typically funds Master’s and PhD for full-time, on-campus programs.
Checklist Before You Apply
- Am I in, or have I secured, a full-time Master’s/PhD slot at a German public university?
- Do I have German B2 certification (or strong English + motivation)?
- Can I demonstrate above-average academics and political/social commitment?
- Do I have required documents: CV, transcripts, motivation letter, language proof, psycho-documents, exposé (for PhD)?
- Will I submit the application by April 1 or October 1, 2025?
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