For Long-Distance Travelers: PROMOS

If you are keen on leaving Europe and getting to know a different academic system during your stay abroad, then the “PROMOS - Programme to increase the Mobility of Students from German Universities” might suit you. With PROMOS, you can travel abroad for up to three months – for a semester abroad, to write your thesis, or for an internship. DAAD contributes a monthly stipend, which varies in amount depending on the country you wish to visit.

The application procedure is straightforward, and you do not have to apply to DAAD, as the University of Bremen distributes the funding to its students. Applications are submitted using the ease and convenience of the Mobility Online platform, analogous to the application process for Erasmus program funding.

For Political Enthusiasts: The Carlo Schmid Program

If you have always wanted to get a taste of international organizations, take a closer look at the Carlo Schmid Program for internships in international organizations and EU institutions. Contrary to popular belief, enrollment in a political or social science degree program is not mandatory for participating in this program; however, an interest in international topics is essential.

Each year, DAAD creates a list of internships in various organizations, including NATO, the United Nations, or the World Bank. Internships are possible in various countries, for example, the USA, Switzerland, Bangladesh, or Senegal. These usually begin in the fall and last four to eight months. Select a specific internship for your application.

If your application is successful, you can look forward to a travel allowance, a monthly scholarship, and insurance benefits, as well as having a chance to meet the other scholarship holders during a preparatory seminar.

For Long-Term World Explorers: Academic Year Scholarship Program

This program provides support for more than just a semester abroad – namely a stay for an entire academic year, i.e. for up to twelve months! You can decide for yourself whether you want to spend this time at a single university or at two different universities within the same country. It is also possible to stay in a different country for each of the two semesters, if this is what your degree program requirements specify.

Your year abroad can be used to take courses, but can also be used to research and write your thesis. This scholarship includes a travel allowance and a monthly stipend, as well as covering tuition fees, where applicable.

Work Experience: Combined Work and Study Program

Similar to the academic year scholarship, this program also enables you to stay abroad for up to twelve months while combining work and study. This means that you first study for a few months at a foreign university and then complete an internship in the same country – or vice versa. You can choose the order freely, but it is important that the practical semester is part of your degree program’s requirements. This program also provides a monthly stipend, a travel allowance, insurance benefits, and a subsidy for tuition fees as needed.

Any Questions?

If you are interested in the prospect of an international stay, but the programs highlighted above do not quite suit your needs, there are additional options available. Students at German universities can apply directly for many other DAAD scholarship programs; here is an overview. Should you encounter any difficulties in navigating the extensive list of over a hundred programs, the International Office team is happy to be of assistance – if you have any questions, please contact Silke Prangemeier, ausland@uni-bremen.de. We wish you a safe journey, wherever it may take you!