BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship: A Path for Tech and Math Professionals

The BMW Group, in partnership with ESMT Berlin, is offering a unique opportunity for ambitious individuals in mathematics and technology. The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship aims to identify and nurture responsible leaders who can drive positive change in both business and society. This fellowship provides financial support and career development opportunities for those pursuing advanced degrees at ESMT.

Understanding the Fellowship

For the fifth year, ESMT Berlin and the BMW Group are collaborating to provide fellowships for several of ESMT’s programs. These include the Full-time MBA, Master’s (MSc) degrees, and the Global Online MBA. The initiative highlights a shared goal between BMW Group and ESMT Berlin to find promising talent and prepare them to be leaders who make a difference.

Fellowship Details and Benefits

The 2026 Change Maker Fellowships are open to applicants from countries where BMW Group has IT hubs. This includes Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, Brazil, China, the United States, and South Africa. Individuals with recognized refugee status in Germany are also encouraged to apply. The fellowships offer significant financial aid towards tuition fees:

• Full-time MBA: Two fellowships are available, each covering 90% of tuition, amounting to €45,000.
• Global Online MBA: Four fellowships are offered, covering the full tuition fee.
• Master’s programs (MSc): Two fellowships are available, each covering 50% of tuition, totaling €17,500.

Beyond financial support, fellows gain access to BMW Group experts and opportunities to build valuable career networks.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship, candidates must meet specific criteria. Applicants should hold an undergraduate degree or currently be employed in a mathematics or technology field. This includes areas like computing, information technology, automation, and digitalization.

Geographically, applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, Brazil, China, the United States, or South Africa. Those with refugee status in Germany are also eligible. For the Master’s (MSc) and Full-time MBA programs, applicants must be 30 years old or younger as of September 1, 2026.

Application Process

Interested candidates are strongly advised to submit their applications as early as possible due to limited fellowship numbers. Prospective students who require a visa to study at ESMT should also begin the application process well in advance, as visa processing can take several months. The application portal for ESMT programs is the primary channel for fellowship consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions