Overview

The Alexander von Humbolt Foundation awards as many as ten German Chancellor Scholarships each year to young U.S. citizens from any profession or field of study who show outstanding potential for future leadership. The program, designed to strengthen U.S.-German ties, provides for a one-year stay in Germany for professional development, study or research. Scholars gain insight into German political, economic, academic, social and cultural life during their residence in Germany.

Eligibility

Applicants must be U.S. citizens who have completed a bachelor's degree and who have not passed their 35^th birthday prior to commencement of the scholarship.  Command of German is not a prerequisite for application.  Before beginning the program, however, each scholar is expected to make an earnest effort to acquire German language skills.

Criteria

Successful candidates have come from a variety of fields including the social sciences, government, law, journalism, communications, management, finance, economics, performing arts, humanities, public service and environmental affairs.  Candidates will be judged on the strength of their applications. 

Application Process

Applicants design individual projects tailored to their professional development and goals and decide at which institutions to pursue them.  Projects may be undertaken at universities, research institutions or in businesses, associations, administrations, museums or other organizations.  Applicants are expected to establish contact with a mentor in Germany before submitting an application.  The mentor should agree to provide professional and/or scholarly assistance throughout the program.

Applications and information can be found on the web site of the Humboldt Foundation. 

Applications must include the following documents:

• A completed application form
• A statement describing the proposed professional activity of study.  The statement should be approximately five typed, single-spaced pages and should present the applicant's objectives and expectations for their stay in Germany.
• Copies of post-secondary diplomas and corresponding transcripts. 
• At least three (but not more than five) letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the professional, personal and academic background of the applicant.
• A letter from the proposed mentor in Germany, indicating their willingness to provide professional and/or scholarly assistance throughout the program.

  Award Value and Conditions

  The scholarships provide for specialized German language instruction, an orientation seminar, study tour, meeting with the Federal Chancellor of Germany, monthly stipends ranging from DM 3,500 to DM 5,000, payment of travel expenses and, upon request, the Foundation may add an allowance for support of a spouse and children.