Alexander von Humboldt Foundation International Climate Protection Fellowship Program 2026

Applications are now open for the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation International Climate Protection Fellowship Program 2026. This prestigious program is designed for professionals working in climate protection or climate-related resource conservation, offering a unique opportunity to carry out a self-designed, research-based project during a one-year fellowship in Germany.

📖 About the Program

The International Climate Protection Fellowship Program is an internationally recognized initiative run by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation in collaboration with German partner institutions. The program aims to:

• Strengthen global leadership in climate action.
• Foster applied research and international collaboration.
• Build long-term professional networks.

Participants will have the chance to contribute to climate protection efforts while benefiting from Germany's advanced research environment.

🎁 Benefits

Fellows receive comprehensive financial support for the duration of their stay. The monthly fellowship amount depends on the career stage:

• €2,500 for early-career professionals.
• €2,800 for experienced professionals.
• €3,000 for senior professionals.

Additional benefits include:

• A mobility allowance.
• A subsidy for medical and liability insurance.
• A lump-sum travel allowance.
• An initial settlement subsidy at the start of the fellowship.

This funding structure ensures that fellows can fully focus on their project implementation.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

The program is tailored for professionals rather than full-time academics. It targets individuals with leadership potential and practical experience in climate-related fields, including:

• Policy professionals.
• Practitioners in public administration or NGOs.
• Researchers with applied or policy-oriented experience.
• Professionals working in international organizations or civil society.

Applicants are expected to bring both expertise and leadership perspectives to the German host environment.

📝 Application Process

Applications must be prepared thoroughly and submitted online. The process involves:

1. Developing a clear, research-based project proposal addressing a climate or resource conservation challenge.
2. Identifying and securing a German host institution willing to support the project.
3. Establishing a mentoring agreement with a designated host supervisor.
4. Preparing all required documentation, including proof of qualifications and professional experience.
5. Submitting the complete application online through the German host institution before the stated deadline.

Note: Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

📅 Application Deadline

The deadline for submitting applications is 10 February 2026.

🌐 Application Portal

For more details about the program, visit the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation International Climate Protection Fellowship Program page.

To apply, visit the application portal.

This fellowship is a remarkable opportunity to advance your career while contributing to global climate protection efforts. Prepare your application thoroughly and take the next step in your professional journey!

• Monthly fellowship amounts depend on career stage:
  • €2,500 for early-career professionals
  • €2,800 for experienced professionals
  • €3,000 for senior professionals
• A mobility allowance
• A subsidy toward medical and liability insurance
• A lump-sum travel allowance
• An initial settlement subsidy at the start of the fellowship