SWEDISH INSTITUTE
CrossCulture Programme 2026/2027: International Fellowship Opportunities for ...
- Founded 2005Year Established
- ~50-60 awards/yearAnnual Fellowships
- Germany and 40+ countriesPartner Countries
- Fully fundedFunding Status
- Professional and volunteer focusTarget Group
- 1,200+ alumni networkAlumni Community
At a glance
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Funding
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Max amount
Rolling
Deadline
All countries (with specific focus on over 40 partner countries)
Country
Swedish Institute
Provider
The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) is an international fellowship initiative established in 2005 by Germany’s Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa). It offers opportunities for professionals and committed volunteers from over 40 partner countries to strengthen their skills, expand global networks, and contribute to positive social change through international exchanges. The programme supports around ~50-60 fellowship recipients annually and has built a network of more than 1,200 alumni since its inception. It focuses on fields such as culture, education, human rights, sustainability, science, and media, fostering intercultural dialogue and long-term cooperation between Germany and its partner countries. Participants gain valuable intercultural experience and build connections while working on projects that strengthen civil society. The initiative also includes CCP Synergy for organisational collaborations and CCP Community for alumni engagement. Treat the figures and dates here as estimates and confirm current-cycle details on the official website.
What's covered
- Monthly Stipend — A living stipend to cover daily expenses, typically around ~EUR 1,200 (est.) per month.
- Travel Costs — Round-trip flights to Germany from the participant's home country.
- Accommodation — Support for securing appropriate housing during the fellowship period.
- Health Insurance — Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the duration of the stay in Germany.
- Public Transport — A public transport ticket within Germany, if required for the fellowship.
- Professional Development — Access to networking events, seminars, and language courses as part of the programme.
How to apply
To apply for the CrossCulture Programme, prospective fellows must visit the official website of the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) and follow the specific application instructions for the current cycle.
- Visit the Official ifa Website — Navigate to the CrossCulture Programme section on the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) official website.
- Review the Current Call — Carefully read the latest fellowship announcement to understand specific eligibility, participating organisations, and requirements for the 2026/2027 cycle.
- Prepare Application Documents — Gather all necessary documents, such as your CV, motivation letter, and references, according to the official guidelines.
- Complete Online Application — Fill out the online application form with accurate information and upload all required documents before the specified deadline.
Eligibility
NationalityCitizens of one of the more than 40 CCP partner countries (e.g., countries in the Global South).
Study LevelNot applicable; primarily for professionals and volunteers, not academic degrees.
Professional ExperienceDemonstrated professional experience or committed volunteer work in relevant civil society fields.
CommitmentStrong interest and commitment to community development, human rights, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.
Applicants should confirm the specific list of eligible countries and any additional age or language proficiency requirements on the official ifa website for the current application cycle.
Eligible countries
All countries (with specific focus on over 40 partner countries)
Deadlines
Main Cycle 2026/2027 (est.)2026-12-01
Selection
Selection for the CrossCulture Programme is based on an assessment of the applicant's professional experience, commitment to civil society, and potential to contribute to intercultural dialogue. Candidates who demonstrate a clear vision for their fellowship and alignment with the programme's goals are highly considered. The process typically involves an application review, followed by interviews with shortlisted candidates.
Verified sources
About the provider
The Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa), founded in 1917, is Germany's oldest organisation for international cultural relations. It promotes peaceful and enriching coexistence between people and cultures worldwide, strengthening civil society networks through programmes like the CrossCulture Programme.
Frequently asked questions
Answers below are best-effort estimates from the most recent application cycle. Values marked ~ or (est.) may shift year-to-year — confirm specifics on the official scholarship page.
What is the CrossCulture Programme?
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The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) is an international fellowship initiative by Germany's ifa, offering opportunities for professionals and volunteers to gain experience and build networks through international exchanges.
What does the CrossCulture Programme cover?
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The programme typically covers travel costs, accommodation, a monthly living stipend, health insurance, and public transport tickets within Germany.
What is the award value of the fellowship?
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The fellowship provides a monthly stipend, which is estimated to be around ~EUR 1,200 per month, in addition to covering other direct programme costs.
Who is eligible for the CrossCulture Programme?
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It is open to professionals and committed volunteers from over 40 partner countries, working in fields like civil society, culture, education, human rights, and sustainability.
Which countries are eligible for this fellowship?
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The fellowship targets individuals from more than 40 specific partner countries, primarily those in the Global South, as listed on the official ifa website.
Which study levels are covered by this programme?
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The CrossCulture Programme is not for academic study degrees but for professional development and volunteer engagement, focusing on practical experience rather than formal education levels.
What is the application deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle?
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The estimated application deadline for the 2026/2027 cycle is December 1, 2026. Applicants should verify the exact date on the official ifa website.
How do I apply for the CrossCulture Programme?
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You apply by visiting the official Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) website, navigating to the CrossCulture Programme section, and following the specific instructions provided there.
What documents are required for the application?
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Typically, you will need to submit a CV, a motivation letter, and provide proof of your professional or volunteer experience. Recommendations may also be requested.
How are recipients selected for the fellowship?
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Recipients are selected based on their professional background, commitment to civil society, and alignment with the programme's goals, often involving an interview process after initial application review.
What is the duration of the fellowship and is it renewable?
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The fellowship duration varies, but it is typically a few months. Information regarding renewal or extension should be sought directly from the official programme details.
Where can I confirm the latest details and apply?
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All current details, deadlines, and application instructions must be confirmed on the official Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) website for the CrossCulture Programme.