Deadline: December 10, 2025
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 offers a unique opportunity for professionals and dedicated volunteers from around the world to gain hands-on experience in Germany or partner countries. Organized by the ifa – Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, this fully funded fellowship promotes intercultural dialogue and global collaboration across civil societies.
Each year, the programme sponsors 55–60 professionals and volunteers from more than 40 countries, supporting mutual learning, skill-building, and lasting international partnerships.
About the CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 is a fully funded exchange fellowship designed to strengthen civil societies through global cooperation. Selected fellows will spend two to three months working with host organizations in Germany or one of the programme’s partner countries.
The fellowship focuses on transcultural collaboration, encouraging participants to exchange ideas, gain professional experience, and contribute innovative perspectives to their home organizations. Although the programme primarily operates on-site, virtual participation may be considered in exceptional cases, depending on travel conditions.
Fellowship Benefits
For Fellows from Outside Germany
- Monthly Stipend: €650
- Round-trip Airfare to and from Germany
- Accommodation during the fellowship stay
- Public Transport Pass in the host city
- Health Insurance Coverage
- Visa Fee Reimbursement, if applicable
For Fellows from Germany
- Monthly Stipend: €1,200 (covers accommodation and living expenses)
- Additional benefits include airfare (if applicable), visa costs, and health insurance.
Note: The fellowship does not cover expenses for accompanying family members, spouses, or partners.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be at least 23 years old at the time of application
- Have a minimum of two years’ professional or volunteer experience in a civil society organization within their home country
- Possess good command of English, as it is the primary working language of the programme
- Be able to commit to a full-time stay abroad for the fellowship duration
Students are not eligible for the programme.
Desired Qualifications
While not mandatory, applicants with the following qualities will have an added advantage:
- Demonstrated long-term commitment to social, cultural, or community initiatives
- Existing or planned collaboration with an organization in the host country
- Proficiency in other languages, especially German
These attributes highlight readiness for intercultural cooperation and leadership within civil society.
Eligible Countries
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 accepts applications from professionals and volunteers in over 40 partner countries, including:
Algeria, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Belarus, Bhutan, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, Germany, Guatemala, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mexico, Mongolia, Morocco, Nepal, Pakistan, Palestinian Territories, Philippines, Republic of Moldova, Russia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tunisia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
Fellowship Duration
Fellowships typically last 2 to 3 months, taking place between March and June 2026 for participants from abroad and Autumn 2026 for German fellows hosted in partner countries.
Application Details
Required Documents
Applicants are required to prepare the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English detailing education, training, professional, and volunteer experience
- Letter of Recommendation from a supervisor within the applicant’s home organization (using the official CCP template)
- Passport Photo (optional)
Application Deadline
The deadline to apply for the CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 is December 10, 2025.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official CCP application portal. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Emphasize your civil society involvement and professional achievements.
- Highlight any cross-cultural experience or international collaboration.
- Mention any existing partnership or project relevant to Germany or a CCP partner country.
- Demonstrate your ability to adapt, learn, and contribute during the exchange.
- If possible, show interest or basic knowledge of German language and culture, as it can strengthen your profile.
Why Apply for the CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026?
This prestigious fellowship not only enhances professional and intercultural skills but also opens doors to lasting international partnerships. Fellows return home equipped to share knowledge, foster social innovation, and contribute to stronger global civil societies.
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