The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship is a fully funded award for international students in Germany. It supports Masters and PhD study at German universities. Unlike a purely academic award, it also expects strong civic values. Many applicants also compare it with other fully funded routes. For example, some look at the Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarship, another major option in Germany.
Overview
- Host country, Germany
- Level of study, Masters and PhD
- Field of study, All academic disciplines
- Number of awards, Several hundred scholarships yearly
- Nationality, Open to international students, mostly from non EU countries
- Funded by, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung

Benefits of the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship
First, scholars get a monthly stipend. Also, they get subsidized health cover. Plus, they join an active alumni network. In short, the award covers this.
- Masters students receive 992 Euro per month, for up to two years
- PhD students receive 1,400 Euro per month, for up to three years
- Subsidized health insurance, up to 120 Euro per month
- Access to seminars, mentoring, and a long term alumni network
- Possible extension, based on strong academic progress
Who Should Apply
This scholarship suits students who care about democracy, human rights, and civic life, not just grades. Meanwhile, students who want a purely academic focus, with less emphasis on values, may prefer the Gates Cambridge Scholarship, which funds a wide mix of postgraduate fields in the United Kingdom.
Eligibility Requirements
Overall, applicants must meet these points.
- Hold a first university degree before applying
- Be under 30 years old at the time of application
- Show German language skill, at B2 level
- Show strong grades, and a broad, curious mind
- Show real volunteer work, and a clear respect for democracy and human rights
Values Based Selection
Notably, the Foundation looks closely at each applicant’s values and community work, not only their grades. This values based review is close to the leadership focus used for the Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship, which also weighs character alongside academics.
Required Documents
- Completed online application through the Foundation’s portal
- Proof of your first degree
- Proof of German language skill
- A letter of reference
- A personal statement on your values and volunteer work
How to Apply
First, applicants already in Germany apply online through the Foundation’s portal before July 15 each year. Next, applicants abroad reach out to their nearest KAS office, since deadlines shift by region. Then, shortlisted candidates attend a selection round. This region based process is close to the setup used for the Rhodes Scholarship, where each area also runs its own review.
Application Deadline
The main deadline for applicants already in Germany is July 15 each year, at noon. For applicants abroad, exact dates depend on the local KAS office. So, check your nearest office early, since regional dates vary widely.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship gives strong funding to values driven students in Germany. However, if civic work is not your focus, check other options too. For instance, the Marshall Scholarship funds American graduates for study in the United Kingdom.





