Besides public funding like DAAD or Deutschlandstipendium, Germany has a wide range of private scholarships funded by foundations, companies, religious organizations, and political groups. These scholarships vary in size, eligibility, and focus, but many offer excellent opportunities for motivated international students. This guide explains how to find the right scholarships, what they typically require, and how to make your application stand out.
What Are Private Scholarships?
Private scholarships are funded by:
• non-profit foundations
• political organizations
• religious institutions
• private companies
• professional associations
They support students who demonstrate:
• strong academic performance
• motivation and responsibility
• leadership potential
• social commitment
• alignment with the foundation’s values
Major Private Scholarship Providers in Germany
Here are some of the most relevant foundations for international students:
1) Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS)
Focus: political science, law, economics, journalism
Funding: €850–€1,200/month
Requirements: strong academic record + interest in politics
2) Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES)
Focus: social justice, equality, community involvement
Funding: €750–€1,200/month
Highly supportive for international students
3) Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
Focus: sustainability, climate, human rights
Funding: €850–€1,200/month
Requires demonstrated activism or interest in environmental issues
4) Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung
Focus: social equality, democracy, political engagement
Funding: similar to other foundations
Acceptance depends on volunteer or political engagement
5) Hans-Böckler-Stiftung
Focus: labor rights, economics, social sciences
Funding: generous + training seminars
Requires social commitment or union involvement
6) Corporate Scholarships
Offered by companies such as:
• Bosch
• Siemens
• Deutsche Bank
• Telekom
• BMW
• SAP
Funding varies but often includes internships or mentoring.
What Private Scholarships Usually Require
While requirements differ across foundations, most expect:
• strong academic performance
• convincing motivation letter
• CV with achievements
• proof of volunteer work or social engagement
• recommendation letters
• language certificates (German preferred)
• alignment with the foundation’s values
Some foundations also expect:
• participation in seminars
• involvement in alumni networks
• interest in political or social topics
How to Find the Right Scholarship Opportunities
1) Use Scholarship Search Platforms
• DAAD Scholarship Database
• mystipendium.de
• stipendiumplus.de
• e-fellows.net
• Studierendenwerk announcements
2) Check Your University Website
Many universities list:
• partner foundations
• internal scholarships
• local funding opportunities
3) Look for Field-Specific Funding
Some scholarships target:
• engineers
• computer scientists
• artists
• medical students
• women in STEM
• students from specific countries
4) Explore Cultural & Religious Organizations
Some offer scholarships for:
• international cooperation
• intercultural exchange
• specific cultural backgrounds
How to Make Your Application Stand Out
1) Show Genuine Motivation
Private foundations look for applicants who believe in their mission.
Your motivation letter should:
• reflect the foundation’s values
• explain your academic goals
• highlight your initiative and responsibility
2) Highlight Social Engagement
Private foundations value:
• volunteering
• community involvement
• activism
• tutoring younger students
• participation in clubs, societies, or NGOs
3) Present a Strong CV
Include:
• achievements
• internships
• projects
• leadership roles
• scholarships or awards
4) Choose Strong Referees
Recommendation letters should come from:
• professors
• supervisors
• mentors
• internship employers
Avoid letters from family or friends.
5) Be Consistent and Professional
Your CV, motivation letter, and application form should reinforce the same message:
“I am motivated, responsible, and eager to contribute to society.”
Common Mistakes That Lead to Rejection
• sending the same motivation letter to every foundation
• not understanding the foundation’s mission
• weak or nonexistent social engagement
• poor grammar or formatting
• submitting incomplete documents
• applying without checking eligibility
• writing overly emotional personal stories
Private foundations value clarity and responsibility—not drama.
Summary
Private scholarships in Germany offer excellent funding opportunities beyond public programs. To succeed:
• find scholarships that match your interests
• prepare a strong, personalized motivation letter
• emphasize volunteer work and social engagement
• build a professional CV
• submit all documents carefully and on time
With genuine motivation and strong preparation, you can stand out and secure highly competitive private funding.