IPS 2027: Fully Funded German Bundestag Scholarship for Young Africans
Young graduates from select African countries have a chance to experience German parliamentary democracy up close. The German Bundestag International Parliamentary Scholarships (IPS) 2027 offers a fully funded four-week program in Berlin for those ready to learn and contribute. This opportunity targets politically active people under 30 from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Program Overview
The IPS program runs from January 4 to February 2, 2027. It started in 2020 under the patronage of the President of the Bundestag. Up to 24 fellows join each year to gain hands-on knowledge of Germany’s parliament.
Participants shadow a Member of the German Bundestag and their staff for one week. The schedule covers parliamentary work, decision-making processes, pluralist society, minority rights, and culture of remembrance. Workshops focus on anti-corruption, intercultural skills, and project management to help fellows build democracy projects back home.
Who Can Apply
To qualify, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Hold citizenship from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, or Uganda.
- Be under 30 years old as of January 1, 2027.
- Have a university degree.
- Show good German language skills at B2 level or higher on the Common European Framework.
- Display interest in politics through social or political engagement.
These criteria ensure fellows bring energy and commitment to the group.
What the Scholarship Covers
Fellows receive a monthly stipend of 700 euros. The program provides free accommodation in Berlin. Travel costs to and from Berlin get covered too.
Health, accident, and personal liability insurance come at no extra cost from the Bundestag. This setup lets participants focus fully on learning without money worries.
Key Program Activities
The core activity is the one-week placement in an MP’s office. Fellows observe daily tasks and assist where possible. This gives real insight into how laws form and debates happen.
Workshops build practical skills. Anti-corruption sessions teach prevention strategies. Intercultural training prepares for diverse teamwork. A project management class helps turn ideas into action plans for home countries.
Topics like protecting minorities and remembering history add depth. Fellows discuss how these apply to their nations.
How to Submit an Application
Applications go through the IPS digital platform at https://bewerbung.ipsdigital.bundestag.de/. Submit everything in German, unlike past years when email worked.
Required documents include:
- A recent language certificate proving B2 German.
- A motivation letter in German, up to two pages, signed by hand.
- Passport or ID copy to prove citizenship.
- University degree certificate in English or German (original or certified copy).
- Recommendation letter in German or English from a professor, teacher, or employer.
Prepare files carefully to avoid issues. The platform guides the process.
Deadline and Next Steps
The application deadline is May 15, 2026. Start early to gather documents and practice German if needed.
For questions, email ips-afrika@bundestag.de. More details appear on the official page at https://www.bundestag.de/en/europe/international/exchange/ips/africa-651046.
This program builds skills for future leaders in Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries can apply for the IPS 2027 program?
Citizens from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Uganda are eligible.
What are the main eligibility requirements?
You must be under 30 years old by January 1, 2027, hold a university degree, have B2 level German skills, and show political engagement.
What does the scholarship cover?
It includes a 700 euro monthly stipend, free accommodation in Berlin, round-trip travel, and health, accident, and liability insurance.
When is the application deadline and how do I apply?
The deadline is May 15, 2026. Submit your application online through the IPS digital platform at https://bewerbung.ipsdigital.bundestag.de/ with all required documents in German.