German HessenFonds Scholarship 2026 for Refugee Students and Researchers in Hesse, Germany
- Omran Aburayya
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
If you are a refugee, asylum seeker, or persecuted researcher striving to rebuild your academic career in Germany, the HessenFonds Scholarship 2026 offers you a remarkable opportunity. Applications are now open for this prestigious scholarship funded by the Hessian Ministry of Science and Research, Arts and Culture (HMWK). The program supports exceptionally talented refugee students, doctoral candidates, and scientists to pursue higher education and research at state universities in Hesse, Germany. Here's everything you need to know.
🎓 Scholarship Summary
Location: Hesse, Germany
Host Institution: State universities in Hesse
Study Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, and Postdoctoral (Research positions)
Target Group: Refugee and persecuted students, doctoral candidates, and researchers
Fields of Study: All disciplines offered at Hessian universities
Scholarship Value:
Students: €300 per month
Doctoral candidates: €1,200 per month
Scientists/Researchers: €2,300 per month
Duration: April 2026 – March 2027
Application Deadline: January 20, 2026 (nomination deadline for universities)
Eligible to: Asylum seekers, recognized refugees, and persecuted scholars (political, religious, or similar reasons)
📚 Scholarship Overview
The HessenFonds Scholarship is part of the German state of Hesse’s humanitarian effort to provide educational access to displaced and at-risk academics. Administered by World University Service e.V., the fund enables scholars to continue their studies or research at Hessian universities, helping them reintegrate into academic life and contribute meaningfully to society.
Since 2022, the program has expanded its scope to include persecuted scientists and doctoral candidates—those who face danger in their home countries due to political, social, or religious persecution.
🎁 Scholarship Benefits
Monthly Financial Support:
€300 for enrolled students
€1,200 for doctoral candidates
€2,300 for scientists/researchers
Access to Academic Networks: Scholars gain access to Hesse’s strong academic and research community.
Institutional Support: Universities provide guidance through international and refugee coordinators.
Integration Opportunities: Recipients can participate in academic and cultural activities within Hesse.
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
General Eligibility
Must be an asylum seeker, recognized refugee, or person entitled to asylum in Germany.
Must have been registered in Germany for no more than four years at the start of the funding period.
Continuous residence in Germany must not exceed five years (exceptions up to six or seven years are possible for those with childcare responsibilities).
Renewal applications require special justification.
For Students
Must be enrolled at a state university in Hesse.
Must demonstrate outstanding academic achievements.
For Doctoral Candidates
Must have official acceptance as a doctoral candidate and a commitment of supervision from a Hessian university.
Must demonstrate academic or research excellence.
For Scientists / Researchers
Must have a research or teaching position or a supervision offer from a Hessian university.
Must show outstanding achievements in research or teaching.
📝 Application Procedure
Apply through your university: Applications must be submitted to the International Office or Refugee Coordinator at your chosen Hessian university.
University nomination: Universities review and nominate qualified applicants to the Hessian Ministry of Science and Research, Arts and Culture.
No direct application to the Ministry: Direct submissions to the HMWK are not accepted. Each university sets its own internal deadline prior to the official ministry deadline.
Nomination deadline: Universities must submit nominations to the Ministry by January 20, 2026. Applicants should check earlier internal deadlines with their respective institutions.
🗂️ Documents Required
Completed HessenFonds application form (available from university offices)
Proof of refugee or asylum status in Germany
Proof of enrollment or acceptance letter from a Hessian university
Academic transcripts and certificates
Letter of supervision (for doctoral candidates and researchers)
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of purpose or motivation letter
Reference letter(s) demonstrating academic excellence
ℹ️ Additional Information
For further details, visit or contact the International Office of your chosen Hessian university. More information on studying and research opportunities in Hesse is available on the official portal:
🚀 Conclusion
The German HessenFonds Scholarship 2026 embodies Hesse’s commitment to education, humanitarianism, and academic freedom. By supporting refugees and persecuted researchers, this program empowers talented individuals to rebuild their futures and contribute to the global academic community.
