Fully Funded German Bundestag IPS Africa Scholarship 2027 in Berlin (Stipend + Travel Covered)

The German Bundestag is offering an incredible opportunity for politically and socially engaged young graduates from sub-Saharan Africa to participate in the prestigious International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS Africa) Programme 2027 in Berlin, Germany.

This fully funded programme is designed to equip emerging leaders with firsthand knowledge of parliamentary democracy, governance, and political decision-making processes within one of Europe’s most influential legislative institutions.

About the IPS Africa Programme

Launched in 2020 under the patronage of the President of the German Bundestag, the IPS Africa Programme aims to empower young African leaders who are passionate about shaping the democratic future of their countries.

Each year, up to 24 participants are selected from eligible African countries to take part in a four-week intensive programme in Berlin.

Programme Duration

• Start Date: 4 January 2027
• End Date: 2 February 2027

What to Expect

Participants will gain practical and theoretical insights into Germany’s parliamentary system through:

• A one-week placement in the office of a Member of the German Bundestag
• Exposure to legislative processes and political decision-making
• Workshops on:
  • Parliamentary democracy
  • Anti-corruption strategies
  • Intercultural communication
  • Project management
• Discussions on:
  • Pluralism and diversity
  • Minority protection
  • Historical memory and political responsibility

The programme also supports fellows in developing projects that promote democracy and civic engagement in their home countries.

Financial Benefits

The IPS Africa Programme is fully funded and includes:

• Monthly stipend of €700
• Free accommodation in Berlin
• Round-trip travel expenses
• Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be citizens of one of the participating countries
• Be under 30 years old by January 1, 2027
• Hold a university degree
• Have at least B2-level proficiency in German
• Demonstrate strong interest in political and social issues
• Show active engagement in civic or political activities

Required Application Documents

Applicants must submit:

• Proof of German language proficiency (B2 or higher)
• Motivation letter (in German, max. 2 pages, signed)
• Copy of passport or national ID
• University degree certificate (English or German)
• Letter of recommendation (German or English)

Important: All application materials must be submitted in German.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through the official IPS digital platform. Email submissions are no longer accepted.

APPLY HERE. 

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Selection Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview at a German diplomatic mission. Final selection is based on:

• Professional qualifications
• Social and political engagement
• Language proficiency
• Intercultural competence

Application Deadline

• Application Period: 1 April – 15 May 2026

Late applications will not be considered.

Important Note

Applicants from Namibia and South Africa may also apply for the five-month IPS Global Programme. While it is possible to apply for both, only one programme can be attended.

Contact Information

For inquiries, contact: ips-afrika@bundestag.de