IFA Cultural Heritage Scholarship 2026 Applications Open
Applications are now open for the ifa Scholarship on the Management of Cultural Heritage & the Transformation of Museums and Exhibition Centres 2026. This program offers cultural practitioners from DAC list countries a chance to work with host institutions in Germany or make reciprocal stays. The deadline is June 30, 2026, so interested applicants should start preparing soon.
Purpose of the Scholarship
The scholarship helps participants build skills through international exchanges. It focuses on sharing knowledge about cultural heritage, collections, and archives. By connecting people across borders, it supports open discussions and strong networks in the cultural field.
Hosts and scholars work together to create new ideas and lasting partnerships. This effort promotes trust between cultures and aids democratic societies. Freedom in art, science, and opinions also gets a boost from these exchanges.
Key Themes
The program centers on updating museums and exhibition spaces based on the 2023 ICOM museum definition. Main topics include:
- Cultural participation, to involve more people from different backgrounds.
- Sustainability, for eco-friendly practices in cultural sites.
- Non-discriminatory spaces, ensuring everyone feels welcome.
- Decolonial methods, to address past biases in collections and displays.
These areas guide projects during the stay.
Benefits Provided
Scholars receive solid support to focus on their work. Coverage includes:
- A monthly net payment of EUR 1,500.
- Family allowances: EUR 250 for a spouse and EUR 250 per child if they join.
- Visa fees.
- Round-trip travel costs.
- Health insurance for the scholar and family.
- A public transport pass for the host city.
- Up to EUR 500 for a language course.
This package makes the stay practical and stress-free.
Who Qualifies
The program targets professionals like curators, restorers, mediators, and culture managers. To apply, you must:
- Handle cultural heritage, collections, or archives in a formal setting.
- Pick a non-profit physical host institution and create a joint project plan with them. This plan is key to getting selected.
- Hold a degree or completed training.
- Speak English well. Knowledge of German or the host country’s language helps but is not required.
Applicants come from DAC list countries.
Application Process
Submit a full application with the required details. Late, incomplete, or emailed entries will not count. Use these official forms:
- For stays in Germany: Apply here
- For optional reciprocal stays: Reciprocal stay form
Check the full details on the ifa Scholarship page. Start by contacting a potential host to build your concept note.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the IFA Scholarship 2026?
The deadline is June 30, 2026. Start preparing your application now to meet it.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Cultural professionals like curators, restorers, mediators, and managers from DAC list countries who work with heritage, collections, or archives qualify.
What benefits does the scholarship offer?
You get a monthly net payment of EUR 1,500, family allowances, travel costs, health insurance, visa fees, and a public transport pass.
How do I apply for the IFA Scholarship?
Contact a non-profit host institution in Germany to create a joint project plan, then submit the official online form before the deadline.