Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung International Scholarship Program 2026

The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) International Scholarship Program is offering opportunities for talented international students and doctoral candidates. This program aims to support individuals from non-European Union countries who wish to study or conduct research in Germany. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the scholarship provides financial and non-financial support to help students focus on their academic goals. The application deadline for the 2026 program is July 15, 2026.

Scholarship Benefits

Scholarship holders with the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung gain access to a variety of benefits designed to support their academic and personal growth. These include a diverse seminar program that explores important political, economic, and cultural topics, often featuring expert speakers. Each scholar is also assigned a personal mentor to help guide their academic and personal journey, offering advice on clarifying goals and navigating student life in Germany.

The program also fosters a sense of community through university groups, which organize activities like theater visits and group discussions, leading to new friendships. These groups are guided by faculty advisors who provide academic support. After the scholarship period, participants can remain connected through the alumni association, known as ASeV. Additionally, the Network of International Scholars (NIS) offers a platform for peer-to-peer exchange, addressing practical concerns like settling into Germany, managing administrative tasks, finding volunteer work, and building social connections. The NIS also encourages exploration of global issues from various perspectives.

Financial Support Details

The financial assistance provided by the KAS scholarship varies based on the level of study. For Bachelor’s, Master’s, or postgraduate programs, recipients can receive up to €992 per month for a standard duration of two years. Doctoral candidates are eligible for up to €1,400 per month, with funding typically lasting for three years, provided they are fully admitted to a doctoral program at a German university.

Beyond the monthly stipend, additional allowances are available upon request. These include a subsidy for health insurance, up to €120 per month. If a scholar’s spouse resides in Germany for more than three months, a family allowance of €276 is provided. A child allowance of €250 per child is also available with the necessary documentation. Scholars may also apply for grants to support research travel abroad, excluding conference visits. In exceptional cases, a partial reimbursement of university tuition fees, up to €750 per semester, can be granted.

Eligibility Criteria

The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung seeks motivated young individuals who demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to social responsibility. Applicants should have completed their secondary school and university studies with good to excellent grades and show a curiosity that extends beyond their specific field of study. A key requirement is identifying with the values and ideas of the Konrad Adenauer Foundation, which includes the ability to critically reflect on social and political topics and respect different viewpoints.

Active community involvement is also highly valued. Applicants are expected to volunteer regularly in their communities, whether in politics, social work, religious organizations, or cultural activities, and to believe in the importance of democracy and human rights. The program also looks for initiative, expecting candidates to contribute to the non-financial support program and actively participate in their local university groups. A long-term goal of promoting lasting ties between their home country and Germany after completing their studies is also encouraged. Finally, candidates should exhibit potential and motivation, being open-minded, goal-oriented, and dedicated to their academic and personal development.

Application Process

The International Scholarship Program is open to committed international students and doctoral candidates who plan to begin or continue their Bachelor’s degree (from the second semester onwards), Master’s degree, or doctorate at a German university. Prospective applicants who are not applying through international offices should submit their applications via the KAS Campus Portal. All required documents must be uploaded to this portal. For further details and information, interested individuals can visit the official Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung website dedicated to international talent development.