Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarships for International Students 2026

Overview

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF) awards scholarships to outstanding Masters and PhD students at German universities who share the foundation’s commitment to liberal values: individual freedom, rule of law, human rights, and market economy. The FNF is affiliated with Germany’s Free Democratic Party (FDP). The programme runs two application rounds per year; the winter semester round closes 15 October 2026. Approximately 100 to 150 new scholarships are awarded across all rounds annually.

Benefits

• Masters students: EUR 934 per month stipend (BAföG rate)
• PhD students: EUR 1,200 per month stipend
• EUR 300 per month study cost supplement for both levels
• Research travel allowance for PhD scholars
• Health insurance subsidy
• Seminar programme with fellow FNF scholars and alumni across Europe

Eligibility

• Enrolled in or accepted to a Masters or PhD programme at a recognised German higher education institution
• Citizens of any country; international applicants from non-EU countries are particularly encouraged
• Under 30 years of age for Masters applicants; under 32 for PhD applicants
• At least B2-level German for programmes taught in German; equivalent English proficiency documentation for English-taught programmes
• Strong academic record and visible commitment to liberal democratic values through civic, political, or professional engagement

How to Apply

1. Secure admission to a German university degree programme.
2. Prepare: CV (max 2 pages), motivation letter (max 1,500 words explaining your commitment to liberal values and your academic goals), two academic reference letters, degree transcripts, language certificate (B2 German or equivalent English score), and a two-page study or research plan.
3. Submit all documents through the FNF scholarship portal at freiheit.org by 15 October 2026.
4. Shortlisted candidates are invited to an interview in November or December 2026; awards are announced in January 2027.

The foundation places particular weight on the motivation letter. Applicants should give concrete examples of civic or political engagement, not general statements of belief.