Are you driven by academic excellence and a deep commitment to social justice? The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships in Germany support both international and domestic students pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees.

While academic credentials are essential, equally prized is demonstrated political awareness and active engagement in democratic processes.
Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships 2025-2026
These scholarships have been created to empower individuals who demonstrate leadership in progressive causes and uphold democratic values. Funding is provided through a partnership with the German Federal Foreign Office, and the program is managed by the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS), a political foundation grounded in European leftist traditions.
Through this scholarship, financial aid is provided for tuition, living expenses, and research expenditures, enabling scholars to focus fully on their academic and social pursuits in Germany.
Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships Summary
Category | Details |
Host Country | Germany |
Scholarship Levels | Master’s and Doctoral Degrees |
Funded By | Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, with support from the German Federal Foreign Office |
Eligible Applicants | International and domestic students with strong social engagement |
Scholarship Value | Covers tuition, living costs, research expenses, and academic essentials |
Language Requirement | Proficiency in German and/or English at B2 level (or above) |
Application Deadline | October 1, 2025 |
Study Mode | Full-Time, at German universities |
Selection Focus | Academic merit, social/political engagement, and democratic values |
What Are the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships?
These scholarships are directed at future leaders who exhibit:
- Academic merit: Achieved through rigorous previous academic work.
- Political and social engagement: Shown via activism, volunteer work, or community-focused projects.
- Commitment to democratic values: Including human rights, social inclusion, and equality.
- Critical thinking and dialogue: Evidenced through openness to diverse viewpoints and constructive discussion, contributing to progressive discourse in society.
Benefits of the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships
Chosen scholars receive a structured and supportive package:
- Tuition fee support at public German universities
- Monthly living stipends are sufficient to cover rent, food, and basic needs
- Research funding, including travel for conferences, archival visits, and data collection
- Mentorship and networking, connecting scholars with experts and peers
- Access to the RLS network, including seminars, workshops, and political education panels
- Opportunities to contribute to RLS publications, events, or campaigns
- Platform for progressive action within Germany and internationally
This comprehensive support is intended to foster both academic growth and long-term societal impact.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be considered for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships 2025-2026, applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Be enrolled or accepted into a German master’s or PhD program
- Possess strong German or English proficiency, minimum B2 level
- Show active involvement in politics, social justice, trade unions, or relevant civic causes
- Come from diverse backgrounds, including women, first-generation scholars, migrants, or individuals with disabilities
- Submit documents in German or English
- Demonstrate academic accomplishment with transcripts, CVs, and references
- Propose research that addresses social, political, or environmental challenges
- Show commitment to democratic engagement and solidarity rooted in RLS principles
Required Documents
Applicants must provide:
- Completed application form (accessible via the RLS website)
- University admission proof or current enrollment certificate
- Academic certificates and transcripts
- CV summarizing education, work, and volunteer activities
- Motivation letter exploring political engagement and research interests
- Letters of recommendation (usually two), ideally from academic and activist supervisors
- Proof of language proficiency
- Research proposal (for doctoral candidates)
- Documents indicating financial need, if relevant
- Copies of a passport or ID
Each item must be submitted through the official online portal by October 1, 2025.
How to Apply for Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships 2025-2026
Visit RLS website.
Access the scholarship information and application portal.
Prepare Documents
Gather transcripts, language certificates, references, and a research outline.
Comprehend the Criteria
Ensure that both academic and political engagement requirements are documented.
Complete the Form
Provide accurate personal, educational, and activist details.
Submit Online Before the Deadline
Final submission must occur by October 1, 2025.
Await Notification
Shortlisted applicants may be interviewed. Final decisions are usually shared by the end of November.
Why Choose the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship?
- Combines academic and political growth: Supports both scholarly research and societal engagement
- Strong mentorship and support: Integration into Germany’s academic and activist communities
- Diverse scholar cohort: Fosters interdisciplinary and global exchange
- Ethical and political grounding: Scholarships are aligned with a commitment to democracy and justice
- Career and civic impact: Alumni often assume roles in NGOs, education, policymaking, and social movements
To begin your application, visit the official Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung website, complete the online form before October 1, 2025, and prepare to embark on a journey where scholarship meets activism.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
Master’s and PhD candidates at public German universities who demonstrate political engagement and academic merit, including international applicants.
What is the required language level?
B2 or above in German or English, as verified by recognized tests or academic records.
Is political engagement mandatory?
Yes, applicants should show tangible involvement in democratic, social justice, or civic initiatives.
Does the scholarship include research funding?
Yes. Additional allowances are provided for travel, conferences, and archival research.
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