Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme

The Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme offers a unique opportunity for outstanding international students to pursue a master’s degree in Germany with significant financial support. This prestigious scholarship covers tuition fees and provides a monthly stipend, making world-class business education accessible to talented individuals from around the globe. Below is the complete guide to everything you need to know about this programme, including eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips for success.

What Is the Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme?

The Frankfurt School of Finance & Management, a leading private business school in Germany, offers this scholarship to attract high-potential graduates. It is designed for students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. The programme supports full-time master’s degrees taught in English, such as the Master in Finance, Master in Management, and Master in Business Analytics.

Why Choose This Scholarship?

• Full or partial tuition coverage – Depending on your application strength, you may receive up to 100% tuition remission.
• Monthly living allowance – A stipend of approximately €850 to €1,200 helps cover rent, food, and other expenses in Frankfurt.
• Networking opportunities – You join a select group of scholars with access to exclusive events, mentorship, and corporate partners.
• Career support – The Frankfurt School Career Centre provides dedicated coaching, internship placements, and job fairs tailored to scholarship recipients.
• International environment – Classes include students from over 80 countries, giving you a global perspective and lifelong connections.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme, you must meet the following criteria:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited university, with a strong academic record (typically a GPA equivalent to a German 2.5 or better).
• Submit a valid GMAT or GRE score (the school prefers a GMAT of 600 or higher, but exceptional candidates with lower scores may still be considered).
• Demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL (minimum 90 iBT) or IELTS (minimum 7.0).
• Provide two letters of recommendation, one academic and one professional.
• Write a compelling motivation essay explaining your goals and why you deserve the scholarship.
• Show evidence of extracurricular involvement, leadership, or community service.

Scholarship Benefits Overview

Application Process Step by Step

Step 1: Choose Your Master’s Programme

Select one of the eligible full-time master’s programmes at Frankfurt School. Each programme has specific prerequisites, so review the curriculum and admission requirements carefully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, English test scores, GMAT/GRE report, and letters of recommendation. Your motivation letter should be tailored specifically to the scholarship, not just a generic essay.

Step 3: Submit the Online Application

Apply through the Frankfurt School application portal. You must indicate your interest in the scholarship when filling out the form. There is no separate scholarship application form – it is integrated into the master’s application.

Step 4: Complete the Interview

Shortlisted candidates are invited for a personal interview, either on campus or via video call. This interview assesses your academic fit, career vision, and cultural contribution to the school. Prepare concrete examples of your leadership and impact.

Step 5: Receive the Decision

Scholarship decisions are announced alongside admission offers. Successful candidates receive a formal scholarship contract outlining the terms and conditions. You typically have two weeks to accept the offer.

“The Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme gave me the financial freedom to focus entirely on my studies. Without it, I could never have afforded to study in Germany. The monthly stipend covered my rent, and the tuition waiver allowed me to graduate debt-free.” — Former scholarship recipient, Master in Finance

Tips to Strengthen Your Application

• Score high on the GMAT – A score above 650 significantly increases your chances. Invest in a prep course or study group.
• Write a personal story – In your motivation essay, connect your past achievements to your future goals. Show how the scholarship will help you solve a real-world problem in your home country or industry.
• Get strong recommendations – Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your analytical skills, teamwork, and resilience. Brief them about the scholarship criteria in advance.
• Demonstrate leadership – Highlight roles in student organisations, volunteer projects, or professional initiatives. Use metrics if possible (e.g., “led a team of 15 volunteers to raise €10,000 for local education”).
• Learn basic German – While the programme is in English, showing willingness to learn German (even A1 level) signals your commitment to integrating into the local culture.

Living in Frankfurt as a Scholar

Frankfurt is a dynamic financial hub with a high quality of life. As a scholarship recipient, you will live in a city with excellent public transport, affordable student housing (dormitories cost €350–€600 per month), and a vibrant international community. The school’s campus is centrally located, close to banks, startups, and cultural venues. Many scholars find part-time work as research assistants or student tutors, which is allowed for up to 20 hours per week.

“I was worried about moving to Germany alone, but the international office at Frankfurt School helped me find an apartment and even organised a welcome week for new scholars. The community is incredibly supportive.” — Recent scholar from India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who is eligible to apply for the Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme?

International students from any country (outside the EU/EEA are prioritised) who have a bachelor’s degree, a strong GMAT/GRE score, and English proficiency. Both fresh graduates and professionals with up to three years of work experience are welcome. You must apply for a full-time master’s programme at Frankfurt School.

2. Does the scholarship cover the full cost of living in Frankfurt?

The monthly stipend of €850–€1,200 is designed to cover basic living expenses like rent, food, transport, and health insurance. However, Frankfurt is one of the more expensive German cities. Many scholars supplement with part-time work or personal savings for extras like travel or entertainment.

3. Can I apply if I already have a master’s degree?

No. The scholarship is exclusively for students who have not yet earned a master’s degree. If you already hold a postgraduate qualification, you are not eligible, even if it is in a different field.

4. Is there an age limit for applicants?

There is no strict age limit. The scholarship committee focuses on academic potential and career goals rather than age. However, most successful applicants are between 21 and 30 years old.

5. How many scholarships are awarded each year?

The number varies, but typically between 10 and 15 full scholarships and 20 to 25 partial scholarships are awarded per intake. The competition is high – the acceptance rate for the scholarship is roughly 5–8% of all applicants.

6. Can I apply to multiple master’s programmes at once?

Yes, you may apply to up to two different master’s programmes in the same application cycle. However, you will only receive one admission decision and scholarship offer. Indicate your first-choice programme clearly in your application.

7. What happens if I fail a course during my master’s?

The scholarship contract requires you to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 (German scale) each semester. If you fall below this, you may receive a warning and a probationary period. Continued academic underperformance can lead to a partial or full withdrawal of the scholarship.

8. Do I need to know German before applying?

No, the master’s programmes are taught entirely in English. However, the school provides free German language courses, and basic German skills are helpful for daily life and internships. Demonstrating even basic German in your application can be a small advantage.

9. Can I defer my scholarship to the next academic year?

Deferrals are rarely granted. The scholarship is tied to a specific intake. If you cannot start on time, you must reapply the following year. Exceptional circumstances (e.g., medical emergencies) are considered on a case-by-case basis.

10. How do I find accommodation in Frankfurt as an international scholar?

The Frankfurt School housing office can assist you in finding a room in student dormitories or shared apartments. Popular options include the “Studentenwerk Frankfurt” dormitories (€350–€500/month) or private WG (shared flats). Apply for housing as soon as you accept the scholarship, as demand is high.

Conclusion

The Frankfurt School Graduate Scholarship Programme is a life-changing opportunity for ambitious students who dream of studying business in Germany. With generous financial support, a world-class education, and a thriving international community, it sets you up for a successful career in finance, management, or analytics. Start preparing your application early – focus on your GMAT score, craft a compelling personal statement, and gather strong recommendations. If you are selected, you will not only gain a degree but also a network that spans the globe and a platform to make a real difference in your field. Take the first step today and apply to join the next cohort of Frankfurt School scholars.