The IPS Africa Scholarship 2026 in Germany is a fully funded parliamentary fellowship program offered by the German Bundestag. It invites politically and socially committed young graduates from selected African countries to Berlin for a four-week intensive program to learn about the German parliamentary system and political decision-making processes.
The program is hosted by the German Bundestag, the national parliament of Germany. Under the patronage of the President of the Bundestag, it aims to foster democratic understanding and civil society engagement among future leaders from sub-Saharan Africa.
IPS Africa Scholarship Benefits
- Receive a stipend of 700 Euros
- Accommodation provided free of charge
- Travel costs to and from Berlin covered
- Cost of health, accident and personal liability insurance covered
IPS Africa Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship of a participating country (Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania and Uganda)
- Under the age of 30 at the start of the scholarship/January 1st
- University degree
- Good knowledge of German (at least level B2)
- Interest in politics, social/political engagement
How to Apply for IPS Africa Scholarship?
- Submit applications exclusively through the digital application platform IPS digital
- Applications must be submitted in German
- Include a recent language certificate
- Include a letter of motivation in German (max. two pages, personally signed)
- Include a copy of passport or identity card as proof of citizenship
- Include a university degree certificate (in original or certified copy in English or German)
- Include a letter of recommendation in German or English from a professor/teacher or employer
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the IPS Africa Scholarship 2026. These answers cover the program details, eligibility requirements, benefits, application process, and deadlines as provided by the German Bundestag.
What is the IPS Africa Scholarship?
The IPS Africa Scholarship is a fully funded four-week fellowship program offered by the German Bundestag for young graduates from selected African countries. It takes place in Berlin and focuses on the German parliamentary system, political decision-making, and democratic principles.
Which countries are eligible for the IPS Africa Scholarship?
Citizens of Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda are eligible to apply for the IPS Africa Scholarship program.
What are the eligibility criteria for the IPS Africa Scholarship?
Applicants must be citizens of a participating country, under 30 years old at the start of the program, hold a university degree, have good German language skills (at least B2 level), and demonstrate interest in politics and social/political engagement.
What are the benefits of the IPS Africa Scholarship?
The scholarship provides a monthly stipend of 700 Euros, free accommodation in Berlin, coverage of travel costs to and from Berlin, and health, accident, and personal liability insurance. It also includes a placement in a Member of Parliament’s office and workshops.
When is the application deadline for the IPS Africa Scholarship 2026?
The application period runs from 1 April until 15 May 2026. All applications must be submitted by 15 May 2026 through the IPS digital online platform.
How do I apply for the IPS Africa Scholarship?
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the IPS digital online application platform. The application must be in German and include a language certificate, motivation letter, passport copy, degree certificate, and a letter of recommendation.
What is the duration and schedule of the IPS Africa Scholarship program?
The program lasts for four weeks. The next program will take place from 4 January until 2 February 2027. It includes a placement in an MP’s office, workshops on democracy, anti-corruption, intercultural training, and project management.
What language is required for the IPS Africa Scholarship application?
Applications must be submitted in German. Applicants must also have good knowledge of German, at least level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, and provide a recent language certificate.
How are fellows selected for the IPS Africa Scholarship?
Applicants are invited to an interview at a German diplomatic mission. An independent selection committee appointed by the German Bundestag selects fellows based on their professional, social, linguistic, and intercultural skills.
Can I apply for both the IPS Africa and the global IPS program?
Namibian and South African citizens are eligible to apply for both the IPS Africa program and the global five-month IPS program. However, you can only participate in one program, and it is not possible to participate in the other at a later date.
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