Overview

The Heinrich Böll Foundation is well-known for its dedication to advancing democracy, human rights, environmental protection, and social fairness. Established in honor of the German author Heinrich Böll, who won the Nobel Prize in literature, the foundation continues his work by backing projects that strive to build a fairer world. A key method it employs to achieve this is through its scholarship program, which is crafted to enable students and professionals worldwide to pursue advanced education and make significant contributions to society. The Heinrich Böll Foundation grants scholarships to approximately 1,000 undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral students of all subjects and nationalities per year, who are pursuing their degree at higher educational institutions in Germany.

Who Can Apply?

• Academic Achievement: Applicants are expected to have an exceptional academic background. For those pursuing graduate and PhD awards, this typically involves achieving high grades in their degree.

• Engagement in Social and Political Issues: Applicants are required to show a deep dedication to issues related to society, the environment, or politics. This engagement can take the form of involvement with non-governmental organizations, student groups, volunteer activities, or any other way of contributing to the community.

• Convergence with Foundation Principles: Applicants must demonstrate a mutual understanding and support for the foundation's principles, which include a focus on environmental sustainability, democratic values, human rights, and social fairness. This is often evaluated through written responses, interviews, and references.

• Proficiency in a Language: For students coming from abroad, being fluent in German is often a must for undergraduate scholarships. However, for those pursuing graduate and PhD awards, programs taught in English are also considered, as long as the candidate possesses the required language abilities.

• Country of Origin: While certain scholarships are exclusively for German nationals or residents, the majority are available to international students from various countries.

Application Procedure

1. Initial Research and Readiness: Applicants should begin by looking into the specific scholarship they wish to apply for. This involves understanding the criteria for eligibility, the necessary documents, and the dates by which applications must be submitted. It's also recommended to reach out to individuals who have previously received the scholarship to learn more about the application process.

2. E-Application Submission: The bulk of the application process is conducted online. Applicants are required to complete an online questionnaire that includes personal details, educational history, and information regarding their involvement in social or political activities.

3. Providing Supporting Documents: In addition to the online questionnaire, candidates are asked to submit various documents. These usually consist of:

• A comprehensive resume (CV).
• Copies of educational certificates and degrees.
• Recommendation letters from teachers or employers.
• A personal essay or a letter of motivation that outlines the applicant's reasons for seeking the scholarship and how their values match those of the foundation.
• Evidence of proficiency in a second language, if necessary.

1. Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview where they discuss their academic background, social engagements, and how they align with the foundation’s goals.
2. Decision: Successful applicants are notified and invited to participate in an orientation program with the foundation.

What Financial Support is Available?

The scholarships pay for tuition fees (if applicable), cover living costs, and sometimes even include travel expenses. The total amount depends on the scholarship's type and the applicant's financial status.