Bielefeld University Scholarships for International Students

Bielefeld University or Universität Bielefeld in Germany is an internationally renowned institution known for its top-caliber research and teaching strategies. Founded in 1969, the university now encompasses fourteen (14) faculties, allowing thousands of students to be exposed and nurtured in a research-orientated environment. You are sure to find your place in Bielefeld, as it has a wide range of disciplines – from the humanities to the sciences. Here we will be looking at the best scholarships at Bielefeld University for international students.

Bielefeld University Scholarships

Undergraduate Scholarships at Bielefeld University

1. Avicenna Studienwerk – Student funding

  • Scholarship Amount: maximum of 812 euros basic grant, 300 euros tuition fee, 160 euros child care per child, maximum of 94 euros for health insurance, and 28 euros for care insurance
  • Eligibility Criteria: EU Muslim citizens or those with German university entrance certificate
  • Scholarship Link

The Avicenna Studienwork scholarship is intended for Muslim students with EU citizenship or with educational resident status. Students who also finished their Abitur in Germany or at a German school abroad are also welcome. Even high school graduates or students intending to study in Bielefeld or other German universities may already apply. The student funding is applicable for Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees; however, those who apply after starting their Master’s degree are no longer eligible. Part-time students are also not qualified.

The support duration for this scholarship available at Bielefeld University is based on the BaföG regulations. Students may also enjoy allowance for foreign studies that will be intended for travel and tuition. The final benefits they will receive will be based on income and BaföG. They may also receive special funding for their first year abroad. For frequently asked questions about the offer, you may view this link.

2. E.W. Kuhlmann-Stiftung Study Graduation Aid

  • Scholarship Amount: maximum of 2,000 euros
  • Eligibility Criteria: final examination must be within nine (9) months
  • Scholarship Link

The E.W Kuhlman Foundation offers a Study Graduation Aid for students in the final phase of their studies and are basically approaching graduation. This graduation aid is an interest-free loan of up to 2,000 euros that the student may pay within five (5) years. After the fifth year, the amount may be subject to interest.

3. Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for Refugees

  • Scholarship Amount: 300 euros monthly stipend
  • Eligibility Criteria: recognized refugee
  • Scholarship Link

The Friedrich Naumann Foundation offers different scholarships, one of which is the Scholarship for Refugees. This scholarship available at Bielefeld University is intended for a recognized refugee about to start or is already studying for their first degree full-time at Bielefeld or other German universities.

All scholars will receive a monthly stipend for study costs of 300 euros. Scholarships are also calculated according to BAFöG regulations. However, they do not need to be repaid. Funds are granted for one year, but the student may apply for an extension every year until graduation. The maximum period for the scholarship depends on BAFöG regulations and the student’s last examination.

Postgraduate Scholarships at Bielefeld University

1. KAAD Scholarship

  • Scholarship Amount: not specified
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • Originating from Africa, Asia, Near and Middle East, or Latin America
    • Have been studying in Germany for at least ten (10) months
    • Part of Catholic or Christian denomination
    • Have communication level knowledge of German
  • Degree Offered: Master’s or PhD
  • Scholarship Link

The Katholischer Akademischer Auslander-Dienst (KAAD) Scholarship financially supports international Catholic students in Bielefeld and other German universities. There is no direct application for this offer, and interested students may inquire and contact the Catholic University Community (KHG) or Catholic Student Community (KSG) in Bielefeld for more information and application.

Non-Catholic students may be granted support when referred by a Catholic partner and assured that they are willing to join the interreligious dialogue. Accepted students will have to maintain above-average academic performance and conduct studies or research with the goal of permanent reintegration in their home region. If the latter goal is not achieved, the scholarship will become a loan instead. They must also have the willingness to join the interreligious dialogue and be engaged in the Church and community.

2. Avicenna Studienwerk – PhD funding

  • Scholarship Amount: 1350 euros basic scholarship, 100 euros research cost, 155 euros family allowance, 155 euros child care for the first child, 50 euros child care for every additional child
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • EU Muslim citizens or those with German university entrance certificate
    • C1 language level
  • Degree Offered: PhD
  • Scholarship Link

For the Avicenna Studienwerk – PhD funding, the benefits will depend on the applicant’s income. The scholarship is applicable for a standard period of two (2) years. However, an extension may be granted due to professional, childcare, or disability reasons. The maximum period for the offer is four (4) years only.

Applicants for this Bielefeld University scholarship must be in the initial period of their doctorate during the application process. They may reapply after a year; however, they may be deemed ineligible when they are already in the final phase of their studies. Requirements are submitted through an applicant portal.

3. Stiftung Studienfonds OWL – DEUTSCHLANDSTIPENDIUM

  • Scholarship Amount: 300 euros per month
  • Eligibility Criteria: admitted or enrolled in Bielefeld University
  • Degree Offered: Master’s
  • Scholarship Link

The Deutschlandstipendium is a scholarship funded by the Studienfonds and the federal government of Germany. It began in 2011 and is applicable for all students studying in one of the five colleges supported by the foundation, including Bielefeld University. Students may submit a personal statement, signed resume, diplomas, transcript, testimonials, references, and photo to apply. For more information about the online application process, you may go to this link.

Aside from the stipend, scholars are also part of the Studienfonds OWL Ideals Cultivation Program, which includes workshops, seminars, talks, internships, tours, mentoring, academic exchange, and many more benefits that will help the student’s academic and career growth. The scholarship is applicable for two years; however, it may be extended for one year. You may also visit this link to see the frequently asked questions and answers.

There are many more scholarships available at Bielefeld University you may apply for as an international student. To view a complete list of such, do check out this link. It is a comprehensive catalog of scholarships, with links and contact information for the organizations and offices.

 

I hope that this article was helpful. If you are interested, visit the Europe Scholarships Page.