The German Bundestag has officially announced applications for the IPS Africa Scholarship 2027, a fully funded parliamentary fellowship program in Berlin for young African graduates interested in politics, governance, and democratic leadership. Organized by the German Parliament, the program offers selected participants the opportunity to gain firsthand experience inside one of Europe’s most influential legislative institutions.
The fellowship will take place in January and February 2027 and is designed for politically engaged young professionals from selected African countries. Participants will spend several weeks in Berlin learning about parliamentary systems, public policy, and democratic governance through practical training and workshops.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Germany
- Program Location: Berlin
- Fellowship Name: German Bundestag IPS Africa Scholarship 2027
- Program Type: Fully Funded Fellowship
- Duration: Approximately Four Weeks
- Eligible Countries: Selected African countries
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
Degree Level
- Fellowship
Available Subjects
The IPS Africa Scholarship is designed for young leaders interested in:
- Politics and Governance
- Public Administration
- Democracy and Human Rights
- International Relations
- Public Policy
- Leadership Development
- Civic Engagement
- Legislative Processes
Participants will gain direct exposure to parliamentary work and democratic institutions in Germany.
Benefits
The German Bundestag IPS Africa Scholarship 2027 offers full financial support to selected fellows. Benefits include:
- Monthly stipend of €700
- Free accommodation in Berlin
- Round-trip international airfare
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
- Training workshops and seminars
- Networking opportunities with political leaders and policymakers
- Hands-on parliamentary experience in the German Bundestag
The fellowship aims to remove financial barriers and provide participants with professional international exposure.
Eligible Nationalities
Applications are open to citizens of the following countries:
- Botswana
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Namibia
- Nigeria
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Applicants must hold citizenship of one of the eligible African countries.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the IPS Africa Scholarship 2027, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Must be a citizen of an eligible African country
- Must be under 30 years of age by 1 January 2027
- Must hold a completed university degree
- Must demonstrate strong political or social engagement
- Must have German language proficiency at minimum B2 level
- Must show interest in democracy, governance, and leadership
Candidates involved in NGOs, youth organizations, civil society, or public leadership activities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Program Structure
The fellowship combines academic learning with practical parliamentary experience. The program includes:
- Seminars and workshops on governance and democracy
- Meetings with members of the German Parliament
- Training sessions on project management and intercultural dialogue
- One-week placement in a Bundestag member’s office
- Exposure to legislative and policy-making processes
Participants will also learn about Germany’s political system and international cooperation initiatives.
Application Procedure
The application process for the German Bundestag IPS Africa Scholarship 2027 involves the following steps:
- Visit the official German Bundestag IPS Africa program website.
- Download and complete the application form.
- Prepare all required supporting documents.
- Submit the application through the designated process before the deadline.
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews at German diplomatic missions.
Applicants are advised to submit complete and accurate applications to improve their selection chances.
Required Documents
Applicants are generally required to submit:
- Completed application form
- Updated CV or resume
- Passport copy
- University degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of German language proficiency
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- Evidence of political or social engagement
All documents should be prepared carefully before submission.
Why Apply for the IPS Africa Scholarship?
The IPS Africa Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for young African leaders to:
- Understand democratic governance systems
- Gain international parliamentary experience
- Build leadership and policy-making skills
- Develop global professional networks
- Strengthen future applications for international fellowships and scholarships
The program is particularly valuable for individuals pursuing careers in politics, diplomacy, governance, and public service.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the German Bundestag IPS Africa Scholarship 2027 is:
- 15 May 2026
Late applications may not be considered.