How is the selection process of the Heinrich Böll Foundation structured?

The selection process of the Heinrich Böll Foundation consists of 3 selection stages: -Formal review and evaluation in the Studienwerk (the four-eyes principle applies) -Interview with liaison lecturer -digitally conducted interview with three to four members of the selection committee Those applicants whose application is positively evaluated in one stage will be admitted to the next stage.

What is the role of liaison lecturers in the selection process?

In the second selection stage, the liaison lecturers – i.e. university lecturers at universities in Germany or abroad – conduct an interview with all applicants and write a report in which they recommend or not to invite the applicant to the third selection stage. Those applicants who receive a positive report from the liaison lecturer will be invited to a selection interview in the 3rd selection stage. The focus of the discussion is primarily on the study project, the main areas of study and goals or the doctoral project.

How long does the selection process take?

From the time of application – 1 March or 1 September – the three-stage application process takes up to four months. Funding starts at the beginning of the winter semester (for applications by 1 March) or at the beginning of the summer semester (for applications by 1 September), and possibly a little earlier for doctoral candidates

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025 [Student/ Doctoral; Funded]: Apply by Sep 1

Merin

2 weeks ago

Online applications are invited for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025. The last to apply for this program is September 1, 2025.

The scholarship department of the Heinrich Böll Foundation grants scholarships to graduates, and doctoral students from outside Germany. An application for a scholarship for an undergraduate degree is not possible.

International students (“foreign students”) before the start of their Master’s degree programme or in their main studies Diploma/State Examination in Germany. Application possible before the start of the Master’s degree programme/before the start of the main programme. The certificate of enrolment, at least a confirmation of university admission, must be submitted with the application if possible or must be submitted at the latest immediately before the selection interview in the 3rd selection stage. Students from all disciplines can apply to all state-recognized universities.

Five steps to applying

Studienwerk der Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung
Fon: +49 – 30 – 28 534 – 400
office hours: Mo, Tu, Thu, Fr 10-13 Uhr
E-Mail: studienwerk[at]boell[dot]de