At its core, the program aims to strengthen transatlantic understanding while supporting highly motivated individuals who are interested in careers that make a difference—whether in the public sector, academia, research, or even roles that bridge both the public and private sectors. Each year, around 10 to 20 scholarships are awarded to outstanding candidates.

Since 1994, the program has been funded through the European Recovery Program (ERP), widely known as the Marshall Plan. This historic initiative invested over $13 billion into rebuilding Western Europe after World War II. Its long-standing mission—to promote peace through economic strength and cooperation—continues today, and the ERP scholarship proudly carries that legacy forward.

 ERP Scholarship Summary

What the Scholarship Covers

The ERP Scholarship supports a variety of academic and research paths, including:

• One- to two-year study programs leading to a U.S. Master’s degree
• Study phases within a PhD program
  • If you already hold a Master’s degree, funding may cover your first year of a PhD
  • If you enter a PhD program with a Bachelor’s degree, funding can extend up to 21 months
• Research stays (10–12 months) for dissertation projects at a German university

For two-year Master’s programs, scholars are expected to complete a two- to three-month internship in the public sector between their first and second year. For one-year programs, the internship should take place after the academic or research period. Early planning is strongly recommended.

Please note: The program does not fund postdoctoral projects, short-term study visits (one or two semesters), or medical doctoral research conducted before completing medical studies.

Scholarship Benefits

Financial Support

• Monthly stipend of $2,500
• One-time start-up grant of $500
• Travel allowance of $1,000
• Tuition support of up to $25,000 per academic year

Additional Support

• Membership in the German National Academic Foundation and its network
• Access to a global ERP alumni community
• Kick-off event before the program begins
• Virtual welcome session at the start of funding
• Annual gathering of scholarship recipients in the U.S.
• Dedicated contact person for ongoing support

The ERP Scholarship can also be combined with other funding sources, such as DAAD or university-based scholarships in the United States.

Who Can Apply

The program welcomes young professionals from all academic disciplines, except the arts (such as music, visual arts, acting, or film).

To be eligible, applicants should:

• Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree by the application deadline (September 20)
• Have earned their most recent degree within the past five years
• Demonstrate strong academic performance (law students should have at least a “fully satisfactory” grade)

Previous funding from the German National Academic Foundation is not required, and applicants do not need to have secured admission to a U.S. university before applying.

However, since this program complements the McCloy Scholarship, study at the Harvard Kennedy School is not supported.

Non-German citizens are also welcome to review the eligibility criteria to determine whether they may apply.

How to Apply

To apply, please complete the required application documents and carefully review the “FAQ and Application Instructions.”

• Submit your application as a single PDF via email
• Postal applications are not required
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a selection seminar

Applicants are responsible for applying to U.S. universities and arranging internships independently.

For more details, click here.

Application Deadline

Applications for the 2027/2028 academic year are open from July 1 to September 20, 2026. Applications submitted outside this period will not be considered.

Please ensure you use the most up-to-date application materials, which will be available at the start of the application period.

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