SBW Berlin Scholarship in Germany

4 min read

Germany, known for its world-class education and innovation, opens its doors to aspiring international students through various scholarship programs. Among these, the SBW Scholarship stands out as a beacon of support for talented individuals seeking academic excellence.

The SBW Foundation (Stiftung der Baden-Württembergischen Wirtschaft) is a key player in promoting education and research. The SBW Scholarship is one of its initiatives aimed at fostering international cooperation and knowledge exchange.

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The SBW Berlin Scholarship for International Students supports talented young people from abroad who have already shown social commitment and who use the skills they have acquired during their studies during and after their studies in social projects at a non-profit/social organization in their home countries.

SBW Berlin awards scholarships based on professional qualifications, personal suitability, and financial need to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree program at a university or a university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) in Berlin or Potsdam. 

Key Information

  • Country: Germany
  • Level of Study: Bachelors, Masters
  • Eligible Countries: International Students
  • Duration of Funding: At least 30 days up to a maximum of 48 months
  • Deadline: Applicable all year round

Target Group for the Scholarship –

  • Foreign nationals whose countries of origin appear to be in particular need of support in their development.
  • Holders of a student visa or residence permit for the purpose of taking up or pursuing studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Between the ages of 18 and 30
  • Professional or volunteer experience in the non-profit/social sector (supported by letters of recommendation from the social institution or non-profit organisation)
  • Have demonstrably not resided in Germany for more than 18 months prior to application
  • University entrance qualification*
  • Intention to work for at least 18 months in the country of origin after graduation or to engage in charitable activities in Germany until the repayment plan is fulfilled
  • Proven relatively low net income
  • Average grade equivalent to a German grade point average of at least 2.0
  • No first-degree family members permanently residing in Germany
  • Application before the start of studies or fully enrolled in the first, second or maximum third semester at a state-recognized university (in Germany or abroad) or application for a master’s degree shortly before or after obtaining a bachelor’s degree

* Interested applicants should note that an application for a place at a university or university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) in Berlin or Potsdam is required. This is done separately to the scholarship application, i.e. applicants are responsible for this themselves.

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Benefits

  • a furnished room in shared student flats in Berlin  
  • cost-of-living allowance currently in the amount of EUR 480 or INR 43000 per month
  • tuition fees
  • possibly also a travel contribution for the journey to Berlin before the start of the course of study and for the journey home after successful completion of the course

First payments can only be made after the scholarship recipient has moved into the shared student apartment. Part-time jobs are generally not approved by SBW Berlin. 

Documents Required

  • Letter of recommendation from a non-profit organization or social institution or one of SBW Berlin’s partner organization (by email)  
  • Application form (A link will be shared with outstanding applicants)  
  • Project description (two to five pages)
  • Qualification for university entrance  
  • Information about the net household income
  • Copy of the last school or university certificate that shows the grade point average and a grade overview  
  • Copy of the highest academic degree (high school diploma or university certificate) that shows the grade point average and a grade overview. 

If available, copies of the following documents should also be included –

  • Admission to a university or university of applied sciences (Fachhochschule) in Berlin or Potsdam  
  • Internationally recognized language certificate for the language in which your studies will be taught
  • All already obtained university certificates and records of achievements (graded and ungraded)  
  • All previous work, training, apprenticeship and internship certificates and references 
  • One or two letters of recommendation from professors, schoolteachers, employers, etc.

How to apply?

When applying for the scholarship, proof of the applicant’s social commitment in the form of a letter of recommendation from a non-profit organization or social institution is required. The nonprofit organization or social institution submits the letter on behalf of the applicant as PDF to application@sbw.berlin

After carefully reviewing the letter, outstanding prospects will be granted access to the application form.

Official Link – https://sbw.berlin/en/portfolio-items/sbw-berlin-scholarship 

Embarking on a scholarly journey with the SBW Scholarship in Germany is an opportunity to unlock your full potential. Seize the opportunity, explore your potential, and let the SBW Scholarship be the rationale for your transformative educational experience in Germany.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q. Who is eligible to apply for the SBW Berlin Scholarship?

    A. Eligibility criteria include being between the ages of 18 and 30, having experience in the non-profit/social sector, not residing in Germany for more than 18 months before application, and holding a university entrance qualification. Other criteria involve low net income, a commitment to work in the country of origin after graduation, and more.

  • Q. When are the application deadlines for the SBW Berlin Scholarship Program?

    A. There are no application deadlines. Applicants can apply for the scholarship program all year round.

  • Q. Does the SBW Berlin cover the costs of language courses, a preparatory year, a deposit for a study place or just the tuition fees?

    A. As a rule, the costs for language courses or a preparatory year are not covered. Financial support for incoming scholarship recipients only begins at the start of the semester and after their arrival in Berlin. A deposit for a study place or any tuition fees can therefore only be paid at this point.

  • Q. Are part-time jobs allowed for SBW Berlin Scholarship recipients?

    A. Part-time jobs are generally not approved by SBW Berlin. The focus is on the recipient’s academic pursuits and engagement with the scholarship.

  • Q. What does the scholarship cover?

    A. The scholarship covers various aspects, including a furnished room in shared student flats, cost-of-living allowance (EUR 480 or INR 43,000 per month), tuition fees, and a possible travel contribution.

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Saket Kohli

An International Higher Ed professional with 7+ years of experience studying, working, and living across three geographies, currently on a mission to share his journey as an International Student.

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