Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for International Students
by Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (affiliated with FDP)
Stipend
Up to 861 EUR/month (Master's) or up to 1,200 EUR/month (PhD)
Duration
Minimum 2 semesters; initial funding for 1 year, extendable to end of study programme
Level
Master, PhD
Deadline
30 April and 31 October each year (portal open 1–30 April and 1–31 October at 11:59 PM)
Overview
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom supports international Master's and PhD students in Germany who demonstrate excellent academics and a commitment to liberal, cosmopolitan values. German language proficiency is essential as both application materials and the selection interview must be in German.
Provider
Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung für die Freiheit (affiliated with FDP)
Type
foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply
All nationalities including non-EU students (Indian students eligible)
Degree Levels
Master, PhD
Benefits & Financial Support
Funding Amount
Up to 861 EUR/month (Master's) or up to 1,200 EUR/month (PhD) + insurance contributions
About
The Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom is affiliated with the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and promotes liberal values. It offers scholarships to German, European, refugee, and non-EU students studying full-time at state or state-recognised universities in Germany.
Benefits — Master's Students
- Monthly stipend of up to 861 EUR
- Monthly contribution to health and long-term care insurance
Benefits — PhD Students
- Monthly stipend of up to 1,200 EUR
- Monthly contribution to health and long-term care insurance
Eligibility
- German and international students (non-EU students eligible)
- Very good to excellent academic record
- Commitment to liberal and cosmopolitan values
- German language skills required — application documents must be in German and the selection interview is conducted in German, even for English-taught programmes
- Must study full-time at a state or state-recognised German university
Eligibility Requirements
- Excellent academic record
- liberal/cosmopolitan worldview
- German language proficiency (interview conducted in German)
- enrolled full-time at a German university.
What This Scholarship Covers
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and daily expenses
Health Insurance
Mandatory health, accident, and liability insurance
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.
Quick Facts
- Amount
- Up to 861 EUR/month (Master's) or up to 1,200 EUR/month (PhD) + insurance contributions
- Duration
- Minimum 2 semesters; initial funding for 1 year, extendable to end of study programme
- Degree Levels
- Master PhD
- Deadline
- 30 April and 31 October each year (portal open 1–30 April and 1–31 October at 11:59 PM)
- Who Can Apply
- All nationalities including non-EU students (Indian students eligible)
Frequently Asked Questions About the Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for International Students
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