Apply for the Cross Culture Exchange Program (CCP Fellowship) 2026, a fully funded exchange program in Germany for civil society professionals and volunteers. Covers stipend, flights, accommodation, insurance, and visa costs. No IELTS required. Applications open 15 October – 10 December 2025.
Overview: CCP Fellowship 2026
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP), funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and implemented by ifa, offers fully funded 2–3 month fellowships for emerging and established civil society actors. The programme strengthens international dialogue, professional exchange, and collaboration across more than 40 countries.
Each year, 55–60 fellows are selected to work with a host organisation in Germany (or digitally) while participating in workshops, networking events, and professional development activities. Fellows apply new knowledge to their home organisations, contributing to stronger, more connected civil societies.
The 2026 cycle will run as on-site fellowships in Germany, with optional digital participation depending on travel constraints.
Application Window: 15 October 2025 – 10 December 2025
About the CCP Fellowship
The fellowship is designed to build professional capacity, foster intercultural understanding, and strengthen civil society institutions. Fellows are placed with German host organisations matched to their expertise—ranging from human rights and peacebuilding to arts, media, civic engagement, and digital transformation.
Key features include:
- A customised placement with a host organisation
- Mentorship and continuous professional guidance
- A multi-day transcultural workshop
- Networking with international peers
- Inclusion in the global CCP alumni community
The programme has supported more than 1,200 alumni since 2005.
Fields of Work
CCP Fellowships cover a wide range of thematic areas, including:
- Human Rights & Good Governance
- Media & Journalism
- Peacebuilding
- Climate & Environmental Advocacy
- Civic Education
- Gender Equality & Inclusion
- Digital Civil Society
- Arts, Culture & Creative Industries
- Social Innovation & Community Development
Eligibility Criteria
General Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be from a participating CCP country (over 40 eligible countries).
- Be aged 23 and above (recommended).
- Be actively working or volunteering in civil society.
- Demonstrate strong professional motivation and social engagement.
- Have good English skills (IELTS is not required).
- Be available for a 2–3 month stay in Germany in 2026.
Professional Requirements
- Relevant experience in civil society, NGOs, community organisations, cultural institutions, media, or advocacy.
- Ability to integrate knowledge gained into home-country activities.
- Commitment to intercultural collaboration and dialogue.
Funding and Financial Benefits
The CCP Fellowship is fully funded for international participants.
Fully Funded Benefits
ifa covers:
- €650 monthly stipend
- Round-trip airfare to Germany
- Accommodation
- Local public transport ticket
- Health insurance
- Visa fee reimbursement
- Professional development and workshops
- Host organisation placement and mentorship
- Participation in workshops, meetings, and networking events
Additional Notes
- Family members (spouses, children) cannot accompany the fellow.
- All costs for dependents are the responsibility of the applicant.
How to Apply (3-Step Process)
Step 1: Prepare Documents
Required documents include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Work samples (optional but recommended)
- Reference letter(s)
- Proof of citizenship (passport or ID)
- Certificates supporting your work profile
Step 2: Submit Online Application
Applications must be submitted via the official ifa CCP application portal during:
15 October 2025 – 10 December 2025
Step 3: Selection & Placement
- Applications are reviewed by ifa.
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for clarification.
- Final placement depends on host organisation matching.
- Selected fellows receive confirmation and pre-departure guidance.
Summary Table | Cross Culture Exchange Program (CCP Fellowship) 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowship 2026 |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Duration | 2–3 months |
| Application Dates | 15 October – 10 December 2025 |
| IELTS Requirement | Not required |
| Eligible Countries | 40+ partner countries |
| Monthly Stipend | €650 |
| Additional Funding | Flights, accommodation, insurance, visa fees |
| Participation Mode | On-site (digital optional if needed) |
Conclusion
The CCP Fellowship 2026 is one of the most prestigious and impactful fully funded civil society exchange programmes in the world. It enables professionals to deepen their expertise, build international networks, and gain practical experience in Germany—without the need for IELTS.
This opportunity is ideal for activists, professionals, volunteers, community organisers, journalists, cultural workers, and young leaders dedicated to strengthening civil society at home and abroad.
