Apply for the Fully Funded CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 in Germany. Open to professionals from 40+ countries. Includes stipend, travel, accommodation, and mentoring. Applications open from 15 October to 10 December 2025.
Apply Now for the Prestigious CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 in Germany
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) — one of Germany’s most respected international fellowship initiatives — has officially opened applications for its Fully Funded Fellowship 2026. Managed by ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen) and funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the CCP Fellowship supports young professionals and civil society leaders from over 40 countries to participate in a transformative two- to three-month exchange in Germany or a partner country.
This fellowship is more than just a professional development opportunity — it’s a global exchange designed to strengthen civil societies, foster intercultural understanding, and build democratic resilience across borders.
About the CrossCulture Programme (CCP)
Launched in 2005, the CrossCulture Programme (CCP) was created to promote dialogue, mutual learning, and global collaboration. Since its inception, it has hosted over 1,200 fellows from around the world, creating a dynamic alumni network of changemakers committed to democracy, human rights, cultural exchange, and sustainable development.
Each year, 55–60 professionals and volunteers are selected for fully funded fellowships in Germany or CCP partner countries. During the two- to three-month placement, fellows work with a host organization that aligns with their professional focus, attend workshops, and participate in transcultural networking events.
CCP’s Mission
The programme’s mission is to:
- Strengthen civil societies worldwide.
- Support grassroots organizations and activists in building local and international networks.
- Enable cross-cultural learning through direct collaboration and field experience.
- Encourage sustainable partnerships that continue long after the fellowship ends.
Fellowship Details at a Glance
| Programme Name | CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Germany (with some placements in partner countries) |
| Fellowship Duration | 2–3 months |
| Application Period | 15 October – 10 December 2025 |
| Number of Fellowships | 55–60 participants |
| Funding Body | German Federal Foreign Office |
| Organizing Institution | ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen) |
| Type | Fully Funded Fellowship |
| Mode | On-site (with digital participation options, if needed) |
Who Can Apply for the CCP Fellowship 2026?
The CCP Fellowship welcomes professionals and volunteers who are actively engaged in civil society organizations, NGOs, think tanks, or community initiatives.
Participating Countries (2026)
Applicants must be citizens of one of the following eligible countries:
Africa & MENA: Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, Tunisia, Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Iran, Palestinian Territories.
Asia: India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Mongolia, Bhutan.
Europe & Eurasia: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, Ukraine.
Latin America: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Cuba, Guatemala, Mexico.
Others: Germany (for exchange to partner countries).
Note: Participating countries may vary annually based on ifa and German Foreign Office agreements.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum Age:
You must be at least 23 years old at the time of application. - Professional Experience:
Minimum of two years of relevant professional or volunteer experience in a civil society organization in your home country. - Language Proficiency:
Strong command of English (spoken and written) is required, as it is the working language of the programme. Knowledge of German is desirable but not mandatory. - Health Requirement:
You must be in good health and able to undertake a long-term stay abroad. - Exclusion Criteria:
- Students are not eligible.
- The fellowship is intended for working professionals and volunteers.
Preferred Qualities
Candidates with the following qualities are especially encouraged to apply:
- Demonstrated long-term social engagement.
- Existing or planned collaboration with a German or partner-country organization.
- Additional language proficiency, especially German or Arabic.
- A clear vision for how they will apply their fellowship experience upon return.
Professional Fields Covered by the CCP Fellowship
Fellowships are offered in a wide range of civil society-related fields, including:
- Policy and Society
- Human Rights and Peacebuilding
- Media and Culture
- Sustainable Development and Climate Justice
For 2026, special focus areas include:
- Culture of Remembrance
- Democratic Resilience
This ensures that fellows contribute to topics that are both globally relevant and locally impactful.
What Does the Fellowship Funding Include?
The CrossCulture Programme 2026 is a fully funded fellowship, covering all major costs for international participants.
For Fellows from Abroad (outside Germany):
ifa will provide:
- Monthly stipend: €650
- Round-trip airfare to and from Germany
- Accommodation costs during the fellowship
- Local public transport ticket
- Health insurance coverage
- Reimbursement of visa fees
Additionally, all fellows receive:
- Mentoring support from the host organization and ifa staff.
- Professional development workshops in relevant thematic areas.
- Access to transcultural learning events and networking opportunities.
- Inclusion in the global CCP Alumni Network after completion.
Note: Family members (spouses, partners, or children) cannot accompany fellows during the programme.
Application Guidelines: How to Apply for CCP 2026
The application process for the CrossCulture Programme 2026 is conducted entirely online. Here’s how to apply step-by-step:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Applicants must have the following ready before starting the online application:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) in English
- Motivation Letter explaining your interest and how the fellowship aligns with your career goals
- Letters of Recommendation (optional but encouraged)
- Proof of professional or volunteer experience
- Language certificates (if available)
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Applications open on 15 October 2025 and close on 10 December 2025.
You must apply through the official ifa CrossCulture Programme portal on the ifa website.
Be sure to:
- Fill in all required fields accurately.
- Use clear, professional English.
- Save your application draft and review it carefully before submission.
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Step 3: Selection and Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview or contacted for further documentation.
Selections are based on:
- Professional competence
- Motivation and relevance to civil society work
- Commitment to intercultural exchange
- Geographic and gender balance
Step 4: Placement and Fellowship
Successful candidates will be matched with suitable host organizations in Germany or partner countries.
Fellows typically begin their placement in mid-2026, with final dates determined by individual arrangements and travel guidelines.
Host Organizations: Mutual Collaboration and Benefits
The CCP relies on collaboration between host organizations in Germany and fellows’ home institutions.
Benefits for Host Organizations
- Access to international expertise and new perspectives.
- Development of long-term partnerships with global civil society actors.
- Opportunity to host motivated professionals engaged in global issues.
Organizations interested in becoming hosts can contact ifa directly at:
Email: crossculture@ifa.de
Phone: +49 711 2225 156
Why Apply for the CCP Fellowship 2026?
Here’s why the CrossCulture Programme is one of the most prestigious fellowships in Germany:
- Fully funded – covering living, travel, and accommodation expenses.
- Access to a global civil society network of over 1,200 alumni.
- Hands-on professional experience with German and international organizations.
- A powerful opportunity to enhance leadership, communication, and intercultural skills.
- A proven gateway to international careers in NGOs, diplomacy, and advocacy.
Important Dates to Remember
- Applications Open: 15 October 2025
- Deadline: 10 December 2025
- Fellowship Duration: 2–3 months (2026)
Meta Description
Apply for the Fully Funded CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 in Germany. Open to professionals from 40+ countries. Includes stipend, travel, accommodation, and mentoring. Applications open from 15 October to 10 December 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for the CCP Fellowship 2026?
Professionals or volunteers aged 23+ with at least two years of civil society experience from eligible countries.
2. Is the CrossCulture Programme fully funded?
Yes. The fellowship covers airfare, accommodation, insurance, and a monthly stipend of €650.
3. How long does the fellowship last?
Each fellowship lasts between two and three months.
4. Can students apply?
No. The CCP Fellowship is open only to professionals and volunteers, not full-time students.
5. What language is required?
Applicants must have strong English proficiency; German language skills are advantageous.
6. Can I bring my family?
No. Family members cannot accompany fellows during the programme.
7. When is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted between 15 October and 10 December 2025.
8. Who funds the programme?
The CCP Fellowship is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and administered by ifa (Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen).
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