International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) for International students by German Bundestag – Fully Funded

Are you a young, politically engaged African graduate with a passion for democracy, governance, and public service? Here is a prestigious, fully funded opportunity to experience the heart of German democracy firsthand.

The German Bundestag has officially opened applications for the International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) Africa 2027. This highly selective programme invites outstanding young graduates from selected African countries to spend four weeks in Berlin, gaining direct insight into the German parliamentary system, political processes, and democratic governance.

Programme Overview

The IPS Africa 2027 is a four-week intensive fellowship programme scheduled to run from 4 January to 2 February 2027 in Berlin, Germany. It is designed for politically and socially committed young university graduates who wish to actively contribute to democracy and vibrant civil society in their home countries.

Participants will:

• Work directly in the office of a Member of the German Bundestag (one-week placement)
• Attend workshops, lectures, and discussions on German politics and parliamentary work
• Engage in networking with politicians, civil society leaders, and fellow scholars
• Gain practical understanding of democratic institutions and policy-making

Participating Countries

The programme is open to citizens of the following countries:

• Southern Africa: Botswana, Namibia, South Africa
• East Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda
• West Africa: Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal

What the Scholarship Covers (Fully Funded)

• Monthly stipend of €700
• Free accommodation in Berlin
• Travel costs to and from Berlin (most economical route)
• Health insurance
• Comprehensive programme activities and materials

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the IPS Africa 2027, applicants must:

• Be a citizen of one of the participating countries (dual citizenship is allowed)
• Be under the age of 30 at the start of the scholarship (as of 1 January 2027)
• Hold a university degree (Bachelor’s or higher)
• Have very good knowledge of the German language (minimum B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages)
• Demonstrate strong interest in politics and societal issues
• Show proven social and/or political engagement
• Be willing to return to their home country after the programme and contribute to democratic development

Application Requirements

• Applications must be submitted in German through the official digital platform
• Required documents typically include CV, motivation letter, academic certificates, proof of German language proficiency, and letters of recommendation

Application Period: 1 April to 15 May 2026

Why You Should Apply

The IPS Africa programme offers a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience to:

• Understand how one of the world’s strongest democracies functions from within
• Build international networks with German parliamentarians and young leaders from across Africa
• Gain practical insights that can strengthen democratic processes in your home country
• Enhance your leadership and public service capabilities

Many past participants have gone on to become influential voices in politics, civil society, media, and public administration in their respective countries.

Summary Table: IPS Africa Scholarship 2027

Detail	Information
Programme Name	International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) Africa 2027
Duration	4 January – 2 February 2027 (4 weeks)
Location	Berlin, Germany
Target Age	Under 30 years (as of 1 Jan 2027)
Eligible Countries	Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal
Stipend	€700 per month + accommodation + travel + insurance
Language Requirement	German B2 or higher
Application Deadline	15 May 2026
Application Link	Check below

Pro Tip: Start preparing your German language certificate and motivation letter early. Applications must be submitted in German, so strong language skills are essential for success.

Share this post with every politically conscious, socially active young graduate in Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Senegal who dreams of deepening their understanding of democratic governance.

Deadline: 15 May 2026

This is a rare and highly prestigious opportunity. If you meet the criteria, prepare your application carefully and submit before the deadline.