CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowships 2027

The CrossCulture Programme (CCP) Fellowships 2027 are international professional exchange opportunities organised by the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa) and supported by the German Federal Foreign Office.

The programme aims to strengthen civil society cooperation between Germany and its partner countries by allowing professionals and committed volunteers to gain practical international experience.

Each year, approximately 50–60 participants from more than 40 countries receive opportunities to work with host organisations abroad for two to three months.

During the fellowship, participants collaborate with organisations operating in fields such as policy and society, media and culture, human rights and peace, and sustainable development and climate justice.

For 2027, the programme also places particular emphasis on democratic resilience, including work related to tackling disinformation, strengthening the rule of law, encouraging inclusion and promoting democratic participation.

Fellows participate in professional activities, specialist training, networking events and a transcultural workshop designed to strengthen their communication and intercultural collaboration skills.

The programme also encourages participants to bring their newly acquired knowledge and international connections back to their home organisations, contributing to stronger civil society networks.

The 2027 fellowships are primarily offered as in-person placements. Digital participation may also be possible depending on individual circumstances and applicable travel regulations.

Applicants must meet the following official requirements:

• Be at least 23 years old at the time of application.
• Be a national of an eligible CCP country or meet the programme's qualifying long-term residence conditions.
• Have at least two years of proven professional experience or volunteer work in a civil society organisation in their home country.
• Be professionally or voluntarily associated with an organisation working in a relevant field.
• Possess good written and spoken English skills.
• Be able to undertake a prolonged stay abroad.
• Not be enrolled as a university student at the time of application or during the fellowship year.
• Not receive another comparable fellowship or similar funding during the same year.
• Be available to participate in the fellowship activities and obtain leave from their home organisation where necessary.

The CrossCulture Programme provides substantial financial and professional support to selected fellows.

For Participants From CCP Partner Countries

• Monthly Stipend: €650 per month.
• Return Airfare: Coverage of round-trip flights.
• Accommodation: Accommodation provided during the fellowship.
• Local Transportation: Monthly public transport ticket within the fellow's city of residence.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance coverage.
• Visa Fees: Reimbursement of applicable visa application fees.
• Professional Mentoring: Support throughout the fellowship.
• Professional Training: Opportunities for specialist training relevant to the fellow's work.
• Transcultural Workshop: Participation in a four-day intercultural workshop.
• Networking: Connections with other fellows and participating organisations.
• Alumni Membership: Inclusion in the CCP alumni network.

For Participants From Germany

• Monthly stipend of €1,200.
• Reimbursement of return airfare.
• Reimbursement of applicable visa fees.
• Health insurance.

German participants are responsible for arranging accommodation and covering relevant local expenses from their stipend.

Applicants must prepare the following documents for the online application:

• Updated CV in English: Include educational background, professional experience, voluntary activities and relevant skills.
• Letter of Recommendation: A recommendation from the applicant's home organisation or employer, preferably written by a supervisor.
• Official Recommendation Template: The letter must use the template provided by ifa.
• Completed Online Application Form: Including personal details, professional background, motivation and fellowship objectives.
• Optional Photograph: A recent photograph may be uploaded but is not compulsory.

The official application and selection guidance identify the following important considerations:

• Relevant professional experience or voluntary civil society engagement.
• Demonstrated commitment to social or community activities.
• Professional connection with the programme's thematic areas.
• Clear motivation for participating in an international exchange.
• Potential to contribute knowledge and experience to a host organisation.
• Opportunities to apply new skills within the applicant's home organisation.
• Existing or planned international organisational cooperation.
• Communication and intercultural collaboration skills.
• Performance in the selection interview.

• Gain practical experience with an international civil society organisation.
• Strengthen professional skills through hands-on collaboration.
• Build connections with organisations and professionals from different countries.
• Develop intercultural communication and leadership capabilities.
• Gain exposure to social, cultural and sustainability challenges in other regions.
• Access professional mentoring and specialist development opportunities.
• Join an established international alumni network.
• Bring new ideas and professional practices back to your home organisation.