The Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung (RLS), one of Germany’s most influential political foundations, has announced the opening of its 2025 scholarship application cycle, targeting highly-qualified and socially committed international Master’s and PhD students. This sought-after funding is more than just financial aid—it’s a powerful engine for social change, empowerment, and academic excellence.
What’s So Special About This Scholarship?
This isn’t your ordinary scholarship program. The Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung champions students who not only shine in academics but demonstrate outstanding political and social commitment. In line with its mission to challenge inequality, the foundation actively prioritizes applications from:
- Women
- Students from non-academic or migrant backgrounds
- Socially disadvantaged individuals
- People with disabilities
In a world battling structural injustice, this scholarship fuels education and activism in one bold move.
Who Can Apply?
The scholarship is open to:
- International Master’s students enrolled at a state or state-recognized university in Germany
- Doctoral students undertaking research or study in Germany
- Applicants who plan to return to their home country after completing their degree
- Citizens from non-EU and EU countries (as long as they do not belong to the domestic applicant category)
Note: Applicants for state examination or diploma courses must have completed the Grundstudium (basic studies) phase.
Selection Criteria
- Proven academic excellence (above-average grades are a must!)
- Documented social and political engagement aligned with the foundation’s values
- German language proficiency at B2 level or higher
- A compelling personal or family background demonstrating your journey and potential.
RLS Is Calling for Applicants from All Fields — Especially STEM!
Whether you’re conducting groundbreaking AI research, tackling climate change through engineering, or analyzing the societal impacts of data science — if your work aligns with progressive change, RLS wants you. Students in scientific and technical disciplines as well as technical college graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Apply: https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk
The last date to apply for the Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung Scholarship is 1 October 2025. This is for funding that will begin with the summer semester starting 1 April 2026.