German Bundestag International Parliamentary Scholarships (IPS) 2026 for young African Graduates (700 euros per month & Fully Funded to Berlin, Germany)

The German Bundestag's International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) programme offers young university graduates from Africa the opportunity to gain firsthand experience of Germany's parliamentary system. The programme aims to promote democracy and civil society in the participants' home countries.

Programme Details:

Duration: The IPS programme for African countries runs annually from early January to early February. For instance, the 2025 programme is scheduled from January 3 to February 4, 2025. 

Activities: Participants engage in a one-week placement in the office of a Member of the German Bundestag, attend workshops on topics like anti-corruption and intercultural training, and develop project ideas to promote democracy and civil society in their home countries. 

Scholarship Benefits:

Monthly Stipend: 700 euros.

Accommodation: Provided in a shared apartment.

Insurance: Health, accident, and personal liability insurance are covered.

Travel Costs: Expenses to and from Berlin are covered. 

Eligibility Criteria:

Citizenship of a participating African country (e.g., Nigeria).

Under 30 years old at the start of the scholarship.

University degree.

Good knowledge of German (at least level B2).

Interest in politics and social/political engagement. 

Application Process:

Applicants must submit:

Completed application form in German.

Passport photo.

Recent language certificate (not older than 2 years).

Motivation letter in German (max two pages).

Copy of passport or ID.

University degree certificate.

Recent letter of recommendation in German or English. 

Applications should be sent as a single PDF file to the German Embassy in the applicant's home country. For Nigerian applicants, the application deadline for the 2025 programme was April 21, 2024. While details for the 2026 programme have not been released yet, it's advisable to monitor the official Bundestag website for updates. 

For more information, please visit the official Bundestag page: Application Portal

Impact of the German Bundestag IPS Program for Young African Graduates

The German Bundestag International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) is an opportunity for young African graduates to gain firsthand experience in German politics and governance. The program has a significant impact on participants, their careers, and their home countries in the following ways:

1. Strengthening Democratic Governance & Civil Society

Participants learn about parliamentary procedures, democratic institutions, and political decision-making.

They engage in discussions on political responsibility, transparency, and anti-corruption.

Upon returning home, alumni contribute to strengthening democratic structures and governance in their countries.

2. Career Development & Networking

The program offers exposure to international politics, law-making, and public policy.

Participants build relationships with German MPs, policymakers, and fellow scholars, leading to future collaborations.

The experience enhances job prospects in government agencies, NGOs, international organizations, and political institutions.

3. Academic & Professional Growth

Participants receive mentorship from German Bundestag Members.

They develop project ideas focused on democracy and social change.

The program enhances German language skills, an asset for future opportunities in Germany or international organizations.

Opportunities After the IPS Program

Graduates of the IPS program have access to several career and educational opportunities, including:

1. Further Education & Scholarships:

IPS alumni can apply for Master’s or PhD programs in Germany with DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) or other scholarships.

They can pursue political science, international relations, law, or public policy studies at top German universities.

2. Internships & Jobs in International Organizations:

Many alumni find opportunities in international organizations like the UN, African Union, European Union, or NGOs.

Some get roles in government institutions, foreign embassies, or policy think tanks.

3. Political & Leadership Roles in Home Countries:

IPS alumni often become advisors, policymakers, or government officials.

Some run for public office, contributing directly to political and economic reforms.

How to Succeed in Getting the IPS Program

Since the program is competitive, follow these key strategies to increase your chances of selection:

1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria

Ensure you have a university degree, German proficiency (B2 level), and strong political interest.

Applicants under 30 years old with leadership potential are preferred.

2. Improve Your German Language Skills

Since the program is conducted in German, fluency is crucial.

Take German language courses, practice speaking, and obtain a recognized language certificate.

3. Write a Strong Motivation Letter

The motivation letter should:

Show your interest in politics and democracy.

Explain how you plan to use the experience to benefit your country.

Highlight your leadership, community involvement, or policy-related activities.

4. Gain Political & Civic Engagement Experience

Get involved in youth parliaments, civil society organizations, activism, or government-related projects.

Demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to democratic values.

5. Obtain a Strong Letter of Recommendation

Secure a recommendation from a professor, political leader, or civil society mentor.

The letter should highlight your academic excellence, leadership, and political engagement.

6. Submit a Well-Organized Application

Ensure all required documents are properly compiled into a single PDF file.

Double-check for errors in German grammar and structure.

Final Tip: Apply Early & Seek Guidance

Since deadlines are strict, apply well before the closing date.

Seek help from German language teachers or past IPS alumni for insights on the application process.