German Bundestag Graduate Scholarship: BERLIN, Germany The German Bundestag will choose about 120 college graduates from as many as 50 different countries to receive the 2027 International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS). You can work directly with German Parliament Members for five months through this program for young workers. The 2026 group is currently in the middle of their program in Berlin. People from Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region who want to apply should start getting ready for the next cycle.
Four Decades of Parliamentary Diplomacy:
The IPS started out as a German-American project in 1986 and has grown into one of the most unique fellowships in international political education. The program, which is supported by Julia Klöckner, President of the German Bundestag, and works with Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Technische Universität Berlin, shows that Germany is still committed to building up political institutions.
As the number of autocracies grows and people lose faith in parliaments around the world, the IPS, which is now open to countries from Albania to Uzbekistan and Canada to Indonesia, is a smart way to invest in the next generation of democratic leaders. More than 2,500 alumni have taken part, creating a network of policymakers, journalists, and public leaders who have been to parliament and know what it’s like.
Benefits of German Bundestag Graduate Scholarship:
- Direct Experience in Parliament: Participants work in the offices of German Bundestag members and get to see how laws are made, how committees work, and how policies are made.
- Full Support for Living: During the five-month program, scholars get a monthly salary of €700, free housing in Berlin, and insurance for travel, health, accidents, and liability.
- Registration for classes: Participants are registered at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin for the summer term and can choose to take up to two classes at any of Berlin’s three partner universities.
- Networking with people from all over the world: Scholars join a global network of over 2,500 graduates and can connect with future politicians, reporters, and social leaders in more than 50 countries.
- Professional Development: The school improves participants’ language skills, ability to work with people from other cultures, and political participation, making them ready for leadership positions in government, NGOs, and international organizations.
- Prestigious Recognition: The scholarship, which is supported by the President of the German Bundestag, is a one-of-a-kind proof of dedication to freedom, public service, and working together with other countries.
Eligibility – Nationality, Age, Language, and Academic Requirements
The IPS is open to people from about 50 countries in Europe, the Arab region, sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, North America, Israel, and some countries in the Asia-Pacific area, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Mongolia, and New Zealand. People can be dual nationals.
Those who want to apply must have a bachelor’s degree or higher, be younger than 30 on March 1, 2027, and be able to show that they can speak German at a B2 level or higher. You must also have a great interest in politics and show that you are active in social or political issues.
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Application Process – Documents, Selection, and Timing
Applications are submitted through German embassies or consulates, with deadlines varying by country. Applicants for the 2027 cohort should check the official IPS page here and local embassies for details.
Required documents include:
- Completed application form in German
- Motivational letter (max 2 pages)
- Certified degree copies
- Passport copy
- German language certificate (max 2 years old)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Application photograph
The selection is two-tiered: embassies shortlist candidates for interviews, followed by final evaluation by a Bundestag-appointed panel with university input. With 120 places across 50 countries, competition is strong but achievable for candidates demonstrating political engagement and intercultural competence.
Why the IPS Matters
For college graduates under 30 who want to get into politics, the IPS gives them the chance to live in a national government instead of just watching from afar. Alumni have gone on to run for office, lead NGOs, and work for foreign groups, all of which have benefited from knowing how things work and having access to global networks. As the program moves into its fifth decade, its continued growth shows that Germany is dedicated to promoting democratic leadership around the world.
What is the scholarship duration and program period?
The program runs for five months from March to July, providing participants hands-on experience inside the offices of German Bundestag members, along with academic enrollment at Humboldt-Universität Berlin and full living support.
What financial support does the scholarship provide participants?
Scholars receive a monthly stipend of €700, free accommodation in Berlin, travel coverage to and from Germany, and comprehensive health, accident, and liability insurance throughout the program duration.
How is the selection process conducted for this scholarship?
Applications are first screened by German embassies, shortlisted candidates attend interviews, and final decisions are made by a Bundestag-appointed panel with input from partner universities.
