KAS Scholarship in Germany 2026 (Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung): Fully Funded. The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) has officially announced the 2026 KAS Scholarships for international students seeking to study or conduct research in Germany.
This prestigious, fully funded scholarship supports Master’s, doctoral, and postgraduate studies and is awarded to academically excellent students who also demonstrate strong civic engagement and commitment to democratic values.
This guide explains what the KAS Scholarship offers, who is eligible, the funding structure, required documents, and how to apply successfully.
About the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS)
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung is a German political foundation inspired by Christian democratic values. Its work focuses on:
- Strengthening democracy and the rule of law
- Promoting human rights
- Supporting social and market-oriented economic systems
- Encouraging political education and international cooperation
Through its scholarship programmes, KAS invests in future leaders who are expected to contribute positively to their home countries and strengthen long-term relations with the Federal Republic of Germany.
KAS Scholarship 2026 Overview
- Scholarship Sponsor: Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS)
- Study Destination: Germany (Europe)
- Level of Study:
- Master’s
- Doctoral (PhD)
- Postgraduate
- Eligible Countries: All countries
- Funding Type: Fully funded
- Annual Value: Up to €23,112 per year (depending on level)
- Application Deadline:
- July 15, 2026 (primary deadline stated)
- Some portals indicate July 31, 2026 — applicants are advised to apply early
What the KAS Scholarship Covers
The Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, structured according to the level of study.
Monthly Stipend
- Doctoral candidates: Up to €1,400 per month
- Master’s/Postgraduate candidates: Up to €992 per month
Duration of Funding
- Master’s/Postgraduate: Standard funding of two (2) years
- Doctoral studies: Standard funding of three (3) years
Additional Financial Benefits
Beyond the monthly stipend, KAS scholars may receive the following allowances:
- Health insurance subsidy: Up to €120 per month
- Family allowance:
- €276 per month if a spouse resides in Germany for more than three months
- Child allowance:
- €250 per child, with appropriate documentation
- University fee support:
- Partial reimbursement of tuition or course-related fees
- Up to €750 per semester, granted only in exceptional cases
- Research travel grants:
- Available for approved research stays abroad
- Conference travel is excluded
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
To be considered for the KAS Scholarship Germany 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Academic Background
- Must already hold a university degree
- Bachelor’s studies are not funded under this programme
- Must demonstrate above-average academic performance
Language Requirement
- Must have good knowledge of the German language, equivalent to B2 level
Study Plan
- Must plan to study for a minimum of four semesters at a recognised university in Germany
Personal and Civic Profile
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Active engagement in voluntary, social, or community work
- A broad general education and clear interest in political and social issues
- A positive attitude toward democracy and human rights
- Openness to dialogue, tolerance, and personal development
- High motivation and the ability to clearly articulate life goals and leadership aspirations
Required Documents for KAS Scholarship Germany 2026
Applicants must prepare and submit a complete application dossier. Missing documents can significantly weaken an application.
Mandatory Documents (All Applicants)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Tabular format
- Must clearly show academic background and voluntary or social engagement
- Motivation Letter
- Explaining academic goals, civic involvement, and alignment with KAS values
- Academic Certificates and Transcripts
- With German translations if originals are not in English
- University Performance Records
- Required if currently studying at a university in Germany
- Proof of German Language Proficiency
- Minimum B2 level
- Academic Letter of Recommendation
- Informal but detailed
- Personal Character Reference
- Informal letter focusing on personality and values
- Certificate of Admission or Matriculation
- From a university in Germany
Additional Documents for PhD Applicants Only
Applicants for doctoral scholarships must also submit:
- A detailed description of the doctoral research project or thesis
- A second academic letter of recommendation
- Written confirmation of supervision
- From the doctoral supervisor (“Doktorvater” or “Doktormutter”)
Selection Philosophy
KAS does not award scholarships based on grades alone. Successful candidates typically combine:
- Strong academic performance
- Proven civic or voluntary engagement
- Clear political or social awareness
- Leadership potential
- Alignment with democratic and human rights values
How to Apply for the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship 2026
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Access the KAS Campus Portal
- Click the official “Apply” link provided on the KAS website
- Create an Application Profile
- Register and complete all required sections
- Upload All Required Documents
- Ensure documents are complete, accurate, and properly labelled
- Submit Before the Deadline
- Submit well ahead of July 15 / July 31, 2026, to avoid technical issues
Important Notes for Applicants
- The KAS Scholarship is highly competitive
- Strong emphasis is placed on values, leadership, and civic responsibility, not academics alone
- German language proficiency is non-negotiable
- Applicants are expected to contribute meaningfully to their home country after completing their studies
Final Advice
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship is best suited for students who see education not just as a personal achievement, but as a tool for social impact, democratic development, and leadership.
Applicants who take time to:
- Present a compelling motivation letter
- Clearly document voluntary work
- Demonstrate alignment with KAS values
stand the strongest chance of success.
