SBW Berlin International Scholarships 2026 in Germany (Fully Funded)
Germany stands out for its strong education system and focus on social responsibility. SBW Berlin (Social Business Women Berlin) offers fully funded scholarships to talented international students who face financial challenges. These awards support bachelor’s and master’s degrees at universities in Berlin or Potsdam.
SBW Berlin International Scholarships help students develop skills while they contribute to non-profit projects in their home countries after graduation. These programs target young people from developing regions or those in difficult situations. Up to 20 scholarships are awarded each year.
From my experience guiding applicants for German scholarships, SBW Berlin values clear plans for social impact. One student from Pakistan won by showing how his studies would help community health projects back home. Another from Nepal was rejected because his motivation letter lacked specific goals. Tools like Numbeo show Berlin costs €1,000-1,500 per month. The scholarship covers tuition, housing, and living expenses, making it possible to study without financial stress.
What Is the Scholarship?
SBW Berlin International Scholarships support full-time bachelor’s (up to 48 months) and master’s degrees. Students live in shared SBW accommodation and take part in social projects.
Key facts:
- Fully funded for eligible students.
- Focus on social commitment and academic potential.
- Berlin/Potsdam universities only.
- No separate application fee.
- Open all year (rolling basis).
Berlin is dynamic, multicultural, and full of opportunities. Public transport is excellent, and the city offers many cultural and social events.
Eligibility Criteria
You qualify if you:
- Come from a developing country or face financial hardship (homeless foreigners, recognized refugees, or EU long-term residents also eligible).
- Are between 18 and 30 years old.
- Have an average grade equivalent to German 2.0 or better.
- Show low household income.
- Have no first-degree family in Germany.
- Commit to social/non-profit work in your home country after graduation.
- Are admitted (or applying) to a Berlin/Potsdam university.
No prior German scholarship from other organizations.
Strong opinion: The social commitment requirement sets it apart. It rewards students who plan real change, not just academic success.
Scholarship Benefits
Full support for the study period.
- Complete tuition fee coverage.
- Furnished shared accommodation.
- Monthly living allowance (covers food and personal expenses).
- Travel allowance in some cases.
- Access to social and training facilities.
Table: Typical Coverage
| Item | Covered? | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | Yes | Full waiver |
| Housing | Yes | Shared SBW apartment |
| Living Allowance | Yes | Monthly, sufficient for basics |
| Travel | Partial | Some cases |
| Other | Yes | Social projects, training |
The scholarship can last up to 48 months, depending on the program.
Programs You Can Pick
Any full-time bachelor’s or master’s at universities in Berlin or Potsdam. All fields are allowed, including:
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Management
- Computer Science and IT
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Natural Sciences
- Social Sciences
- Law
No restriction to specific subjects.
Required Documents
- Copy of highest degree certificate.
- Transcripts with grades.
- Two recommendation letters.
- Motivation letter (max 2 pages) – explain your social goals.
- Updated CV.
- Proof of low household income.
- University admission letter (or proof of application).
- Certificates of achievements (awards, volunteer work).
All documents in German or English.
How to Apply for SBW Berlin International Scholarships?
- Apply for admission at a Berlin/Potsdam university first (get acceptance or confirmation).
- Prepare all documents in the required format.
- Fill the online application form on sbw.berlin.
- Upload documents and submit.
Applications accepted all year round. Early submission is better as spots are limited.
Tip: Make your motivation letter very specific – describe your non-profit plan in detail and how the degree helps.
Why Study in Germany with SBW Berlin?
High-quality education at low or no tuition. Berlin is creative, diverse, and full of opportunities. Strong focus on social impact.
Germany safe, efficient, and green. Public transport excellent.
Contrarian: Strict rules on social commitment. But the program supports real change-makers. Reviews: “Life-changing, strong community.”
More Scholarships
Useful Links
- sbw.berlin/en/scholarships – Official program page.
- sbw.berlin/en/application – Application form and guide.
- uni-assist.de – For university applications (if needed).
- numbeo.com Berlin – Living costs accurate (€1,200 single average).
- scholarshipportal.com – More Germany awards.
- study-in-germany.de – Visa and living info.
- fastweb.com – General lists.
- goingmerry.com – Clean search.
Application Checklist
- University admission (or proof of application).
- Motivation letter (2 pages max, social focus).
- Two strong recommendation letters.
- Proof of low income.
- CV with achievements.
- All documents in English/German.
- Age 18-30.
- Submit anytime.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
No university admission first. Generic motivation letter. No social impact plan. Incomplete income proof. Late submission (even though rolling, spots fill).
PAA: Open all year? Yes. Age limit? 18-30. Fully funded? Yes, including housing.
Living Costs in Berlin
Single €1,000-1,500 per month (Numbeo Jan 2026). Rent covered by scholarship. Food €300. Allowance handles rest.
Numbeo honest: Affordable for Germany.
Strong opinion: SBW Berlin is unique for social commitment. Full funding plus housing makes it accessible. Perfect if you want to make real change.
