Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships: Fully-Funded Scholarships for Social Activism Students

Germany, with its world-renowned educational system, offers numerous scholarships for international students, and one of the most impactful is the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship. If you are a student passionate about social activism, political engagement, and human rights, this fully-funded scholarship could provide the financial support and academic resources you need to pursue your Master’s or PhD degree in Germany.

Fund Overview

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) is a political foundation rooted in the tradition of democratic socialism. It is dedicated to fostering political education, social justice, and equality. The foundation offers fully-funded scholarships to international students who are committed to social change, activism, and tackling issues like inequality, discrimination, and political oppression.

Through the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships, the foundation aims to support students who are not only excelling in their academic field but are also committed to social activism and fighting for a more equitable and just society. These scholarships are specifically tailored for students who want to use their education to make a positive impact in their home country or globally.

Coverage of the Fund

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship provides comprehensive support to ensure that recipients can fully focus on their studies and activism without financial worries:

Monthly Stipend: €1,000 per month for Master’s students and €1,200 per month for PhD students.
Health Insurance: Full coverage for health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
Tuition Fees: The scholarship covers the minimal tuition fees that exist at most public universities in Germany.
Research Grants: Students conducting research related to social activism, political science, or socioeconomic development are eligible for additional grants to cover research expenses or conference participation.
Travel Allowances: Support for travel to and from Germany, including for conferences or research.
Family Allowances: In some cases, students with dependents may be eligible for family allowances to help cover living expenses.

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With this funding, you can focus entirely on your studies and activism, free from financial stress.

Eligibility Criteria

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship is open to international students who meet the following criteria:

Academic Background: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s students) or a Master’s degree (for PhD students) from a recognized institution.
Field of Study: The scholarship is open to students in all academic fields, but preference is given to those studying political science, sociology, social work, human rights, and environmental studies.
Social Commitment: The foundation prioritizes candidates who are actively involved in social movements, political activism, or community development that promotes social justice and human rights.
Democratic Values: Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to democracy, equality, and human rights, in line with the foundation’s values.
Language Requirements: Proficiency in German or English is required, depending on the language of the program. Some programs may have specific language proficiency requirements.
Nationality: The scholarship is open to international students, particularly those who are engaged in social activism in their home countries.

Timelines

Application Period: The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship is typically open for applications from June to August each year. Be sure to check the official website for the exact application timeline.
Selection Process: The selection process takes several months, with candidates usually notified in October or November.
Scholarship Duration: The scholarship is awarded for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on academic performance and continued social engagement.

How to Apply

Visit the RLS Scholarship Portal: Start by visiting the official Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship page here.
Prepare Required Documents: You will need to submit the following documents as part of your application:
- Application Form: Completed online form.
- Motivation Letter: A well-crafted letter outlining your reasons for applying, your academic and career goals, and how the scholarship aligns with your commitment to social activism.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A comprehensive CV highlighting your academic achievements, leadership roles, and social engagement.
- Academic Transcripts: Copies of your academic records.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two references from academic or professional mentors who can speak to your qualifications and your commitment to social justice.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Proof of your German or English language skills (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, DSH, TestDaF).
- Proof of Social Engagement: Documentation of your involvement in community service, political activism, or social justice work.
Submit Your Application: Once you’ve gathered all the required documents, submit your application through the RLS online portal.
Selection Process: If selected, you will be invited to an interview or evaluation as part of the final selection process.
Wait for Results: After the selection process, you will be notified of your scholarship status. If successful, you will receive further instructions regarding your scholarship and study program.

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Documents Needed

To apply for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship, you will need the following documents:

Application Form (provided by RLS)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Motivation Letter
Academic Transcripts
Letters of Recommendation (usually two)
Proof of Language Proficiency (English or German)
Proof of Social Engagement (e.g., volunteer work, activism)
Proof of Enrollment or Application Acceptance from a German university.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship is competitive, so here are some tips to increase your chances of success:

Highlight Your Social Commitment: The scholarship is for students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to social justice, equality, and human rights. Emphasize your social activism, volunteer work, or involvement in political movements.
Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter: Your motivation letter should reflect your commitment to social change. Clearly explain your reasons for pursuing your field of study and how the scholarship will help you further your academic and activist goals.
Show Leadership: FES values applicants who have demonstrated leadership in social causes. Provide examples of how you’ve led initiatives or made a positive impact on your community.
Provide Strong References: Ensure that your letters of recommendation come from individuals who can speak to your qualifications and commitment to activism. Strong references will bolster your application.
Align Your Goals with RLS’s Values: Show that your academic and professional goals align with the foundation’s core values of democracy, justice, and solidarity.

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Conclusion

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship offers a unique opportunity for international students to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree in Germany, with full financial support. This scholarship is designed for students who are committed to social activism and social justice, and who want to make a tangible impact on the world. If you are passionate about advancing human rights, fighting inequality, and promoting democracy, the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship is an excellent opportunity for you to further your studies and make a lasting impact in your community.

For more information and to apply, visit the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship Page.

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Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships: Fully-Funded Scholarships for Social Activism Students