location: Berlin, Germany
host: German Bundestag
duration: 5 months
source-url: https://www.globalsouthopportunities.com/2026/07/12/international-45/
apply-url: https://www.bundestag.de/en/europe/international/exchange/ips/ips-201258
The German Bundestag offers the International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS) to 120 young graduates each year. This 5-month program provides participants with practical experience in parliamentary work and a deeper understanding of political and social processes. With a monthly allowance of €700, free accommodation, travel costs, and insurance, the IPS is an attractive opportunity for young people interested in politics and social contexts.
Overview
The IPS program is designed for young university graduates who want to gain practical experience in parliamentary work. The program runs for 5 months and is open to citizens of up to 50 countries.
- Duration: 5 months
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Number of participants: around 120
- Countries eligible: up to 50
Eligibility
Applicants must be citizens of a participating country, be younger than 30 at the start of the scholarship, hold at least a Bachelor's degree, demonstrate strong interest in political and social contexts, show evidence of social and/or political engagement, and have German language skills of at least B2 level (CEFR).
- Citizenship: participating country
- Age: under 30
- Education: at least a Bachelor's degree
- Language: German language skills of at least B2 level (CEFR)
- Social and/or political engagement: evidence required
Funding & Benefits
- Monthly allowance: €700
- Free accommodation
- Travel costs to and from Berlin
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
How to Apply
The application process involves submitting a completed application form, proof of German language ability, a motivation letter, degree certificate, recommendation letters, proof of citizenship, and a passport-style photo. The selection process is a two-stage process, with an initial assessment by the relevant German diplomatic mission abroad, followed by a personal interview and final selection by a Bundestag committee.
- Completed application form
- Proof of German language ability
- Motivation letter
- Degree certificate
- Recommendation letters
- Proof of citizenship
- Passport-style photo
Why This Matters
The IPS program is highly competitive, with around 120 places available for young graduates from up to 50 countries. The program's emphasis on social and political engagement, combined with the requirement for German language skills, suggests that the selection process will favor candidates who can demonstrate a strong understanding of political and social contexts, as well as a commitment to social and/or political engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the IPS program?
The IPS program runs for 5 months.
What is the monthly allowance for participants?
The monthly allowance is €700.
What language skills are required for the IPS program?
Applicants must have German language skills of at least B2 level (CEFR).
How many participants are selected for the IPS program each year?
Around 120 young graduates are selected for the IPS program each year.
What is the selection process for the IPS program?
The selection process is a two-stage process, with an initial assessment by the relevant German diplomatic mission abroad, followed by a personal interview and final selection by a Bundestag committee.
What documents are required for the IPS application?
The application requires a completed application form, proof of German language ability, a motivation letter, degree certificate, recommendation letters, proof of citizenship, and a passport-style photo.