University of Stuttgart Scholarships 2026
Job Description
University of Stuttgart Scholarships and Foundations Complete Funding Guide for Students
Looking for financial support while studying at the University of Stuttgart? This comprehensive guide covers the wide range of scholarships and foundations available to both German and international students. Scholarships at the University of Stuttgart offer not only monthly funding but also valuable networking opportunities, seminars, workshops, and exclusive events.
Contrary to common belief, scholarships are not only for top academic performers. Criteria such as social commitment, family background, cultural background, personal circumstances, and special achievements also play an important role.
Why Apply for a Scholarship at the University of Stuttgart?
- Financial support (monthly stipends)
- Access to exclusive networking events, seminars, and workshops
- Personal and professional development opportunities
- Connection to sponsors, companies, and alumni networks
For personalized advice, contact the Scholarship Service Center at the University of Stuttgart.
1. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
One of the most popular scholarships at the University of Stuttgart.
- Amount: 300 € per month
- 50% funded by private sponsors and 50% by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research
- Based on academic performance + at least one additional criterion (social engagement, special circumstances, awards, etc.)
- Open to students enrolled at the University of Stuttgart
Application periods are usually announced in December/January for the following funding year.
2. German Academic Scholarship Foundation (Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes)
Germany’s largest and most prestigious talent foundation. Supports highly gifted students with outstanding academic performance, initiative, and social responsibility. Direct application is possible via a screening test. The University of Stuttgart provides support during the selection process.
3. Political Foundations
These foundations offer scholarships based on political values and social commitment:
- Friedrich Ebert Foundation
- Friedrich Naumann Foundation
- Hanns Seidel Foundation
- Hans Böckler Foundation
- Heinrich Böll Foundation
- Konrad Adenauer Foundation
- Rosa Luxemburg Foundation
Most of these foundations also have special programs for refugees and international students (good German language skills are usually required).
4. Religious Foundations
- Avicenna Studienwerk – for Muslim students and doctoral candidates
- Cusanuswerk – Catholic Church scholarship
- Ernst Ludwig Ehrlich Studienwerk (ELES) – for Jewish students
- Evangelical Academic Foundation
- KAAD – Catholic Academic Exchange Service (especially for international students from developing countries)
5. Scholarships for Specific Target Groups
- Women in STEM: Femtec.Network, MTU Studien-Stiftung, Hildegardis Society
- Female refugees: Stiftung “Brot für die Welt”
- Students with immigrant background: GEH DEINEN WEG, Ikimiz-Mentoring
- First-generation students: Clauss-Simon-Stiftung (B-First & Masterplus), Tandem Scholarship
- Students with chronic illnesses: Aktion Luftsprung, Bowel Disease Foundation
- Students in need: Wilhelm Weckherlin Foundation, Studentenwerk Stuttgart
6. Subject-Specific Scholarships
- Engineering: AQUA-Stipendium, VDI Elevate, Richard-Winter-Stiftung, Dr. Friedrich Jungheinrich-Stiftung
- Aerospace Engineering: Hermann-Reissner-Stiftung
- Chemistry: August-Wilhelm-von-Hofmann-Stiftung
- Architecture & Urban Planning: Various foundations
- Business Administration (Master): Schmalenbach Scholarship, Volkswagen Master Scholarship
7. Scholarships for Refugees and International Students
Several political and religious foundations offer dedicated programs for refugees. KAAD and some DAAD-related funding options are particularly relevant for international degree-seeking students. Many foundations require a good command of German.
How to Apply Successfully
The University of Stuttgart provides a helpful scholarship checklist to organize your application. Key tips:
- Start researching early
- Check specific eligibility criteria carefully
- Prepare strong motivation letters and recommendation letters
- Highlight not only grades but also social engagement and personal background
Useful Scholarship Databases
- Stipendium Plus
- Stipendienkompass
- e-fellows.net Scholarship Database
- DAAD Scholarship Database (especially for international students)
For individual advice, contact the Scholarship Service Center at the University of Stuttgart.
Note: Deadlines, amounts, and eligibility criteria vary by foundation and change regularly. Always check the official websites of each foundation for the latest information.
