The Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026 in South Africa is a pitch competition where students and early-career professionals present their innovative ideas in just three minutes. The goal is to showcase a breakthrough that positively impacts science and society. This is not a grant but a unique opportunity to gain visibility and compete for a spot at the global Falling Walls Lab finale.
The Falling Walls Lab Gauteng is organized by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) in partnership with the Federal Foreign Office – German Embassy Pretoria and WITS University (University of the Witwatersrand) in Johannesburg. The event takes place on 5 August 2026 at WITS University and online via livestream.
Benefits of Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026
- Pitch your innovative idea in just three minutes
- Showcase a breakthrough that positively impacts science and society
- Opportunity to win a spot at the global Falling Walls Lab finale
- Event held at WITS University in Johannesburg and online (livestream)
Eligibility Criteria for the Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026
- Students and early-career professionals of all disciplines
- You must be 18 years or older when submitting your application
- Currently enrolled at university as a student
- Received a Bachelor’s degree no more than 10 years ago
- Received a Master’s degree no more than 7 years ago
- Received a PhD no more than 5 years ago
- An MD (medical degree excl. a doctoral dissertation) is deemed equivalent to a Master’s degree
- A Dr. med. (medical degree incl. a doctoral dissertation) is deemed equivalent to a PhD
How to Apply for Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026
- Apply to the Falling Walls Lab closest to you
- Submit your application in English via the online form
- Confirm that you have not previously participated in a Falling Walls Lab
- Accept the Falling Walls Lab terms & conditions
- Once submitted, you will no longer be able to edit your application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Falling Walls Lab Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026?
Falling Walls Lab Scholarship 2026 is a pitch competition where participants present a breakthrough idea in three minutes. It is not a grant but a platform to gain visibility and compete for a spot at the global Falling Walls Lab finale.
Who can apply for the Falling Walls Lab Gauteng?
Students and early-career professionals of all disciplines who are 18 or older. You must be currently enrolled, or have a Bachelor’s degree (within 10 years), Master’s (within 7 years), or PhD (within 5 years).
What is the deadline for the Falling Walls Lab Gauteng 2026?
The deadline is 30 April 2026. Applications must be submitted online before this date.
Where and when does the Falling Walls Lab Gauteng take place?
The event takes place on 5 August 2026 at WITS University (University of the Witwatersrand) in Johannesburg, Gauteng, and online via livestream.
Is the Falling Walls Lab fully funded?
No, Falling Walls Lab is not a grant agency. Travel and accommodation expenses for international Labs are not covered unless otherwise stated by local organisers.
Can I apply as a group?
No, group applications are not permitted. Only individual applications are accepted.
Can I apply to multiple Falling Walls Labs?
No, submitting multiple applications is not permitted. You should apply to the Falling Walls Lab closest to you.
What language must the application be in?
All applications must be submitted in English.
Can I apply if I have participated in a Falling Walls Lab before?
No, past participants are no longer eligible to apply. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
How do I apply for the Falling Walls Lab Gauteng?
You apply via the online form on the Falling Walls website. You must confirm you have not participated before and accept the terms and conditions.
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