Aufstiegsstipendium (for Professionally Experienced Students)
Stipend
Monthly stipend (BAföG-independent)
Duration
Standard period of study
Level
Bachelor, Master
Deadline
Varies (typically two rounds per year)
Overview
The Aufstiegsstipendium supports students with professional experience and vocational qualifications. Referenced on University of Cologne prospective students financing page alongside other federal scholarship programmes.
Provider
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), administered via SBB (Stiftung Begabtenfoerderung Berufliche Bildung)
Type
university Scholarship
Degree Levels
Bachelor, Master
Benefits & Financial Support
Funding Amount
Monthly stipend (BAföG-independent) + material allowance
Eligibility Requirements
- Students with completed vocational training and professional experience
- first academic degree programme
- German citizenship or equivalent status.
What This Scholarship Covers
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and daily expenses
Books & Materials
Annual allowance for books and study supplies
In the provider's words
- monthly stipend for professionally qualified students
- material costs allowance
How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet the nationality, degree level, academic, and language requirements listed above.
Prepare Documents
Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, letters of recommendation, language certificates, and motivation letter.
Find a Programme
Identify the German university and programme you want to study. Some scholarships require university admission before applying.
Submit Application
Apply through the official application portal before the deadline. Upload all required documents as PDFs.
Interview & Selection
If shortlisted, attend an interview (may be online). Selection committees assess academic merit, motivation, and fit.
Receive Decision
Scholarship decisions typically arrive 3-6 months after the deadline. If awarded, complete visa and enrolment procedures.
Application Document Checklist
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV / resume)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- Bachelor's or Master's degree certificate
- Academic transcripts with grades
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH)
- Letter(s) of recommendation from university professors
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- University admission letter (if already accepted)
Note: Exact document requirements vary. Always check the official scholarship page for the definitive list.
Need Help With Your Application?
Scholarship applications are competitive: a strong profile evaluation, polished SOP, and the right university selection make the difference. GradGermany's experts can help at every step.
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Quick Facts
- Amount
- Monthly stipend (BAföG-independent) + material allowance
- Duration
- Standard period of study
- Degree Levels
- Bachelor Master
- Deadline
- Varies (typically two rounds per year)
Frequently Asked Questions About the Aufstiegsstipendium (for Professionally Experienced Students)
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