The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for international students who want to pursue their postgraduate or doctoral studies in Germany.
With its long-standing mission to support academic excellence and foster democratic values, the KAS scholarship empowers a new generation of global leaders who are committed to creating a better, more inclusive world.
Funded by the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, a German political foundation aligned with democratic values, this program offers other forms of support outside of financial support. It cultivates intercultural dialogue, global networking, and academic distinction for exceptional students from across the globe.
About the Scholarship Program
The KAS Scholarship is designed to support highly motivated international graduates and doctoral candidates who demonstrate a strong interest in political, societal, and social engagement. The scholarship allows recipients to pursue their academic goals at any recognised university in Germany while receiving both financial assistance and access to KAS’s extensive alumni network.
The program can last up to two years for Master’s students and up to three years for PhD candidates, which gives recipients a robust foundation for academic and professional growth. In addition to funding, scholars benefit from seminars, conferences, and mentoring that strengthen their personal and professional development.
Benefits of the Scholarship
Awardees of the KAS Scholarship will receive comprehensive financial and academic support, like:
- Monthly Stipends:
- €850 for Master’s degree students
- €1,200 for doctoral students
- Health Insurance Subsidy: Reimbursement of health insurance costs up to €120 per month.
- Family Allowance: An additional €276 monthly for scholars whose spouses live with them in Germany.
- Tuition Fee Reimbursement: Up to €1,500 per semester for tuition and course-related expenses.
- Relocation and Research Support: Assistance with travel costs and research-related expenses, especially for scholars arriving from abroad.
These benefits are aimed at minimising financial stress so scholars can fully dedicate themselves to their studies and community engagement.
Who can apply for the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship?
TO be eligible for this scholarship, you must meet the following:
- Nationality: It is open to all international applicants.
- Age Requirement: You must be under 30 years old at the time of application.
- Academic Qualification:
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- Must hold a university degree equivalent to a German degree (Bachelor’s not funded).
- PhD applicants must provide a detailed research proposal and proof of supervision.
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- Language Proficiency: Demonstrable command of German (minimum B2 level), as activities and discussions often take place in German.
- Duration of Stay: Must plan to study at a German university for at least three semesters.
- Personal Engagement: Active involvement in volunteer work, civic engagement, or political activities in their home countries is essential.
- Shared Values: Strong alignment with democratic ideals, human rights, and international cooperation.
Application Process
To apply for the KAS Scholarship, follow these steps:
1. Determine your application route
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- If you reside in a focus region (e.g., Turkey, Latin America, Ukraine, Russia), apply through your local KAS office.
- If you currently live in Germany, use the domestic selection procedure and apply via the online platform.
2. Prepare required documents
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- A detailed Curriculum Vitae outlining your academic history and civic engagement.
- A Motivation Letter explaining your academic goals, values, and reasons for applying.
- Transcripts and certificates, with certified German translations where necessary.
- Proof of German language proficiency (minimum B2 level).
- Two letters of recommendation:
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- One academic (addressing qualifications and potential)
- One personal or professional (focused on character and social involvement)
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- Confirmation of admission or current enrollment at a recognised German university.
Additional documents for PhD applicants:
- A 5–10-page synopsis of the proposed research topic.
- Proof of academic supervision in Germany.
- A second academic recommendation focusing on the research project.
If you are interested in this scholarship, then applying early is highly important. The competition is high, and it requires lots of documentation, so start early.
Why choose the KAS scholarship?
From all indications, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship is an investment in the development of ethical, visionary leaders.
Here’s what sets it apart:
- Academic Excellence: Tailored support for ambitious scholars committed to societal impact.
- Global Community: Access to a thriving network of like-minded professionals and alumni.
- Leadership Growth: Training, seminars, and mentorship that promote values-based leadership.
- Positive Change: A platform to contribute meaningfully to democratic and human rights initiatives on an international scale.
Whether you’re pursuing a Master’s in political science, law, economics, or working toward a doctorate in education, sociology, or international relations, the KAS Scholarship will provide you with the tools, network, and resources to take your aspirations to the next level.
Where to apply
To apply or get more information about this scholarship, go to the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung scholarship here.