Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships for International Students 2026

Overview

The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) awards scholarships to international Masters and doctoral students at German universities. The foundation is affiliated with Germany’s Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and values candidates committed to democratic governance, rule of law, and civic responsibility. Every year the programme supports several hundred international scholars from non-EU countries across all academic fields. The annual deadline is 15 July at noon CET for study commencing in the following winter semester.

Benefits

• Masters students: EUR 992 per month stipend
• PhD students: EUR 1,400 per month stipend
• Health insurance supplement
• Language course funding where required
• Access to annual KAS seminar programme and alumni network across Europe

Eligibility

• Citizen of a non-EU country with no permanent residence in Germany at time of application
• Under 30 years of age for Masters applicants; under 32 for PhD applicants
• Enrolled in or accepted to a Masters or doctoral programme at a recognised German higher education institution
• At least B2-level German, certified by a Goethe-Institut, telc, or equivalent exam
• Strong academic record and demonstrable civic or political engagement

Candidates with a prior connection to Germany (earlier study, work, or an internship) are encouraged to explain the link in their motivation letter.

How to Apply

1. Secure admission to a German university programme.
2. Prepare: full CV, motivation letter (focus on academic goals and civic engagement, max 2 pages), two academic reference letters, degree transcripts, and a German language certificate showing B2 level or above.
3. Send all documents in a single PDF to stipendium-if@kas.de by 15 July 2026 at noon CET.
4. Shortlisted candidates are invited to interviews in October or November 2026.

Contact: Tel. +49 30 26996-2321. Full guidelines are on the KAS website linked above.