The Cross Culture Program Fellowship 2027 in Germany is now open for applications. Organised by Germany’s Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa), this international fellowship supports civil society professionals and volunteers from more than 40 countries. The programme offers an opportunity to gain professional experience, develop international networks and strengthen civil society work through collaboration with host organisations in Germany or eligible partner countries. Applications are open from 20 October to 8 December 2026.
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) selects approximately 50 to 60 professionals and volunteers each year. Selected fellows participate in a two to three-month professional placement, receive mentoring and attend professional development activities, networking events and a three to four-day transcultural workshop. The fellowship is designed to help participants improve their expertise and apply their experience to their home organisations after the programme.
The Cross Culture Program Fellowship 2027 covers several major expenses for participants from abroad. Selected international fellows will receive a monthly stipend of €650, round-trip airfare, accommodation, health insurance, a monthly public transportation ticket within their city of residence and reimbursement of applicable visa fees. The programme also provides access to a professional alumni network. Funding is subject to support from the German Federal Foreign Office.
WhatsApp ChannelCross Culture Program Fellowship 2027 Summary
| Host Country | Germany |
| Host Organization | Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) |
| Eligible Nationalities | Applicants from eligible countries |
| Program Type | Professional Fellowship |
| Fellowship Duration | 2 to 3 months |
| Monthly Stipend | €650 |
| Program Period | May to November 2027 |
| Deadline | 8 December 2026 |
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Cross Culture Program Fellowship 2027 Benefits
The fellowship provides the following benefits to eligible international participants:
- Monthly stipend of €650
- Round-trip airfare
- Accommodation during the fellowship
- Monthly local public transportation ticket
- Health insurance
- Reimbursement of visa fees
- Professional mentoring and training
- Networking with international fellows
- Access to the CCP alumni network
The fellowship is primarily offered on-site, although digital participation may be possible depending on individual circumstances and applicable travel regulations.
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Eligibility Criteria
The Cross Culture Program Fellowship is designed for professionals and volunteers involved in civil society activities. Applicants must meet these requirements:
- Be at least 23 years old when applying.
- Have at least two years of proven professional experience or volunteer work in a civil society organisation in their home country.
- Have a solid command of written and spoken English.
- Be able to undertake a prolonged stay abroad.
- Meet the nationality or residence requirements stated in the relevant country call.
Students are not eligible. Individuals receiving another form of funding in the same year, such as another fellowship, are also excluded.
Applicants working in policy and society, media and culture, human rights and peace, sustainable development and climate justice are encouraged to review the programme’s focus areas. Democratic resilience is an additional focus for 2027.
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Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- An English-language CV covering education, work experience, volunteering and other skills.
- A recommendation letter from a supervisor at their home organisation or workplace, using the official template.
- An optional photograph.
How to Apply
To apply for the Cross Culture Program Fellowship 2027, visit the official website and select the relevant country-specific application call. Complete the online form, upload the required documents and submit the application before the deadline. The portal does not allow applicants to save incomplete drafts, so all documents should be ready before starting.
The application deadline is 8 December 2026 at 23:59 CET. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews, with final selection notifications expected in March or April 2027. The fellowship programme will run from May to November 2027.
Applicants must complete their applications personally. The official programme instructions specifically request applications without AI assistance.
