The Carlo-Schmid-Programm (CSP) is one of Germany’s most prestigious funding programs for students and graduates who aspire to build careers in international organizations and EU institutions. Launched in 2001, the program is jointly run by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes, with funding from the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF).
Through this program, exceptional German students and graduates gain hands-on experience through internships abroad, strengthening their skills in international administration, diplomacy, and policy-making.
Program Overview
The Carlo-Schmid-Programm provides funded internships at international organizations, multilateral institutions, EU agencies, and global administrative bodies. The goal is to familiarize participants with international governance challenges and enhance their intercultural competencies. Interns also benefit from seminars, mentor support, and an active alumni network.
The program is supported by Tönissteiner Kreis, which offers additional mentoring opportunities.
Degree Level & Eligible Fields
The CSP is open to:
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Bachelor students (advanced stage)
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Master students
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Graduates (recent)
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Doctoral students (stipend rates calculated at doctoral level)
All academic disciplines are eligible—humanities, social sciences, economics, engineering, law, natural sciences, and more.
Nationality Requirements
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Only German citizens (including dual nationals with German citizenship) are eligible.
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Applicants must be enrolled or recently graduated from a German university.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for CSP 2026, candidates must:
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Be German students or graduates of any discipline.
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Have academic or professional interest in international affairs.
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Demonstrate previous engagement with international topics during their studies.
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Apply for one or two posted internship positions (published from mid-December 2025).
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Tailor applications specifically to the requirements of each internship.
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Be able to undertake an internship of 4–8 months (except July–August for non-NATO placements).
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Not directly contact the hosting international organizations.
Funding Duration
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4–8 months, depending on the host organization.
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Internships cannot be funded during July–August, except for NATO internships.
Benefits of the Carlo-Schmid-Programm
The CSP offers generous funding and support, including:
1. Monthly Scholarship Stipend
Calculated based on destination country using DAAD rates (doctoral level rates apply). Includes:
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Base monthly amount
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Country-specific foreign allowance
2. Travel Allowance
Support for round-trip travel costs depending on host country.
3. Insurance Coverage
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Health insurance
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Accident insurance
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Personal liability insurance
4. Additional Benefits (upon request)
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Family benefits for accompanying spouses/partners and children
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Additional allowances as outlined in the DAAD guidelines
5. Professional Development Activities
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Introductory seminar
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Annual summer seminar in Bonn (scheduled for July 23–25, 2026)
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Alumni networking events
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Mentorship via Tönissteiner Kreis
Application Timeline (2026 Cycle)
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Internship advertisement release: Mid-December 2025
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Application period:
December 12, 2025 – February 5, 2026 (1:00 PM CET) -
Do not contact international organizations directly.
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Results announced via DAAD after internal selection processes.
Application Process
Step 1 – Review Available Internships
Internship positions are posted in mid-December. Applicants may select one or two positions.
Step 2 – Prepare Your Application
Typical requirements include:
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Motivation letter tailored to the specific internship
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CV
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Academic transcript(s)
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Proof of enrollment or degree certificate
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Additional documents required by the host organization
Step 3 – Submit Online Application
All applications must be submitted via DAAD’s official portal before the deadline.
Step 4 – Selection & Results
DAAD reviews applications based on:
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Academic excellence
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Motivation and suitability
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Relevance of international experience
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Alignment with host organization tasks
Selected candidates receive funding confirmation from DAAD.
Why Choose the Carlo-Schmid-Programm?
The CSP is highly competitive and internationally respected. It opens pathways to careers in:
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United Nations organizations
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EU institutions
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Global development agencies
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International NGOs
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Multilateral policy bodies
Participants gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and networking opportunities that significantly enhance their global career prospects.
