The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 in Germany gives professionals and volunteers from around the world a chance to gain international experience. Fellows work with host organizations to share ideas, develop new skills, and strengthen civil society.
About the Fellowship
The CCP Fellowship supports people who are active in social, cultural, media, human rights, and political fields. Fellows spend 2–3 months working in Germany or other partner countries. The fellowship offers training, mentoring, workshops, and networking to help participants grow professionally and personally.
Host Country
Germany and CCP partner countries
Host University
This program is organized by ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen) with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office.
Fellowship Type
Fully Funded Short-Term Fellowship
Degree
No specific degree required, but participants must have professional or volunteer experience in a civil society organization.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
Be at least 23 years old.
Have at least 2 years of work or volunteer experience in a civil society organization.
Have strong English skills (the main language of the program).
Be in good health to travel and stay abroad.
Not be a student at the time of application.
It is desirable to have:
Long-term social or community engagement.
A connection or planned collaboration with an organization in the host country.
Additional language skills (especially German).
Fields of Study
Policy and Society
Media and Culture
Human Rights and Peace
Sustainable Development and Climate Justice
Special Focus for 2026:
Culture of Remembrance
Democratic Resilience
Fellowship Benefits
For International Participants:
Monthly stipend of €650
Round-trip airfare
Accommodation
Public transport ticket within host city
Health insurance
Visa fee reimbursement
For German Participants:
Monthly stipend of €1,200 (covers accommodation and local expenses)
Round-trip airfare
Health insurance
Visa fee reimbursement
Additional Benefits for All Fellows:
Cooperation with host organization
Mentoring and guidance
3–4 day Transcultural Workshop
Networking with international fellows
Membership in the CCP Alumni Network
Required Documents
Completed online application form
Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English
Letter of recommendation from supervisor (use official template)
Choose the correct country call on the application portal.
Fill out the online form and upload all required documents (no draft saving available).
Submit your application online before the deadline.
Incomplete or late applications will not be accepted.
Timeline
Stage
Date
Application Opens
October 15, 2025
Application Closes
December 10, 2025
Interviews for Shortlisted Applicants
January–February 2026
Final Selection Notification
March–April 2026
Fellowship Duration
May–November 2026
Registration Deadlines
Application opens: October 15, 2025
Deadline: December 10, 2025
Selection Process
Screening of applications
Interview by the selection board
Final results announced via email (March/April 2026)
Selected fellows participate between May and November 2026
Applicants not selected will be informed by email. Due to high competition, feedback cannot be provided.
Tips to Succeed
Prepare a clear and focused application.
Explain how the fellowship will benefit your home organization.
Get a strong recommendation letter.
Highlight your volunteer or community work.
Submit before the deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question
Answer
Who can apply?
Professionals or volunteers over 23 with at least 2 years of experience in civil society.
Can students apply?
No, students are not eligible.
Do I need to know German?
Not required, but helpful. English is the main program language.
Is the fellowship paid?
Yes, it includes a monthly stipend, housing, airfare, and insurance.
Can family members join?
No, the program does not cover family members.
Where does the fellowship take place?
Mainly in Germany or other CCP partner countries.
Why Choose This Fellowship
This fellowship builds strong professional and cultural connections between countries. It allows participants to gain global experience, learn new ideas, and bring positive change to their communities.
Career and Future Opportunities
After completing the program, fellows become part of the CCP Alumni Network, connecting them with global professionals, organizations, and new collaboration opportunities.
Student Experiences
Many fellows describe their experience as life-changing. They gain practical knowledge, leadership skills, and cultural understanding that strengthen their professional and personal growth.
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 is a great opportunity for active civil society professionals and volunteers to learn, share, and grow. With full financial support, professional mentoring, and global networking, CCP helps build a stronger and more connected world.
