Are you a young graduate from Africa passionate about politics and democracy? The German Bundestag International Parliamentary Scholarships (IPS) 2027 offers a fully funded chance to spend four weeks in Berlin learning about Germany’s parliament. This program targets committed people from nine African countries who want to build skills for their home nations.
The IPS started in 2020 under the support of the Bundestag President. It brings up to 24 fellows to Germany each year. Participants gain hands-on knowledge of parliamentary work and democratic processes. The goal is to help them promote democracy and civil society back home.
Programme Details
The 2027 edition runs from January 4 to February 2. This tight four-week schedule packs in key experiences. Fellows shadow a Member of Parliament (MP) and their team for one full week. They observe daily tasks, meetings, and decision-making up close.
Workshops cover important topics like pluralist society, minority rights, and remembering history as a political duty. Sessions also tackle anti-corruption strategies and intercultural skills. A project management workshop stands out. It guides participants to create their own ideas for democracy projects in their countries.
The program mixes theory with practice. Mornings might focus on lectures about the Bundestag’s structure. Afternoons allow time in MP offices to see laws in action. Evenings bring group discussions on global challenges. This setup builds networks and fresh perspectives.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility rules keep the program focused on promising leaders. You must hold citizenship from one of these countries: Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, or Uganda. Southern Africa includes Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. East Africa covers Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. West Africa has Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal.
Age matters too. Applicants need to be under 30 on January 1, 2027. A university degree is required. Language skills count: you need good German at least at B2 level on the Common European Framework. This means you can handle discussions and read official texts.
Interest in politics is key. Show social or political engagement through past activities. The program seeks people ready to shape their countries’ futures.
Scholarship Benefits
The IPS covers almost everything, so fellows can focus on learning. Each participant gets a monthly stipend of 700 euros. This helps with daily needs during the stay.
Housing comes free in Berlin. The Bundestag arranges shared or single rooms in safe spots. Travel costs from your home country to Berlin and back are paid fully. Health, accident, and liability insurance are included too. No hidden fees mean less stress for applicants.
These perks make the program accessible. A 700-euro stipend goes far in Berlin for food and transport. Free lodging near key sites saves time. Insurance protects against surprises.
How to Apply
The deadline is May 15, 2026. Apply only through the online platform at IPS digital: https://bewerbung.ipsdigital.bundestag.de/. No email submissions work anymore.
All applications go in German. Prepare these documents:
- A recent language certificate proving B2 German.
- A motivation letter in German, max two pages, signed by hand.
- Passport or ID copy to prove citizenship.
- University degree certificate in English or German (original or certified copy).
- One recommendation letter in German or English from a professor, teacher, or employer. It should explain why you fit the program.
Upload everything clearly. Double-check for completeness before submitting. Late or incomplete files get rejected.
Key Dates and Contacts
Mark your calendar. Applications open now and close May 15, 2026. Selected fellows start January 4, 2027.
For questions, email [email protected]. Visit the official page for updates: https://www.bundestag.de/en/europe/international/exchange/ips/africa-651046.
This program builds real skills. Past fellows have launched projects on youth involvement and anti-corruption. Your turn could shape Africa’s democratic path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries can apply for the IPS 2027 program?
Citizens from Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Namibia, Nigeria, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, or Uganda are eligible.
What is the age requirement for IPS 2027 applicants?
Applicants must be under 30 years old on January 1, 2027, and hold a university degree.
What benefits does the IPS 2027 scholarship provide?
It covers a 700-euro monthly stipend, free housing in Berlin, round-trip travel, and health insurance.
How and when should I apply for IPS 2027?
Apply online by May 15, 2026, at https://bewerbung.ipsdigital.bundestag.de/ with documents in German, including a motivation letter and language certificate.