Deadline: 30-Jun-2026
The BMW Group Change Maker Fellowships, in partnership with ESMT Berlin, are designed to support high-potential students pursuing business and leadership education. The programme focuses on developing future leaders in mathematics, technology, and digital transformation fields.
It combines financial support with leadership development, global exposure, and professional networking opportunities with BMW Group.
Participating Programs and Intake Cycles
The fellowships are available across three ESMT Berlin programs:
- Full-time MBA (January 2027 intake)
- Master’s (MSc) programs (September 2026 intake)
- Global Online MBA (October 2026 intake)
Each program has a specific number of fellowships allocated for eligible candidates.
Funding Structure and Fellowship Value
The fellowship provides partial to full tuition support depending on the program:
- Full-time MBA: Two fellowships worth €45,000 each, covering 90 percent of tuition fees
- Global Online MBA: Four fellowships covering 100 percent of tuition fees
- MSc programs: Two fellowships worth €17,500 each, covering 50 percent of tuition fees
In addition to financial support, fellows gain access to BMW Group experts and career networks.
Key Focus Areas of the Fellowship
The programme emphasizes development in the following areas:
- Leadership development and responsible leadership
- Business education and management skills
- Technology and mathematics-based innovation
- Digital transformation and entrepreneurship
- Global learning and international exposure
- Experiential and practice-based learning
- Career advancement and professional networking
- Online and full-time flexible study pathways
The fellowship is designed to prepare candidates for leadership roles in global industries.
Programme Description: Full-time MBA
The Full-time MBA at ESMT Berlin focuses on building strong leadership and strategic business skills through an immersive academic experience.
Key features include:
- Core business and strategy curriculum
- Leadership development training
- Experiential learning projects
- International exposure opportunities
- Structured career development curriculum
- Networking with global employers and industry experts
The program supports career acceleration and leadership readiness.
Programme Description: Global Online MBA
The Global Online MBA is designed for working professionals who want flexible study options while continuing their careers.
Key features include:
- Live online teaching sessions
- Self-paced learning modules
- Collaborative group projects
- Real-world global business case studies
- Leadership and career development support
- Flexible study from any location
This format enables professionals to upskill without pausing their careers.
Programme Description: MSc Programs
The Master’s (MSc) programs at ESMT Berlin provide specialized business education for early-career professionals.
Key features include:
- Specialization in business and technology fields
- Strong foundation in entrepreneurship and innovation
- Preparation for corporate and startup careers
- Practical and applied learning approach
- Focus on digital and analytical skill development
The programs support career entry into both corporate and entrepreneurial environments.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold an undergraduate degree or work in mathematics or technology-related fields
- Fields include computing, IT, automation, digitalization, or related sectors
- Be a citizen or permanent resident of Germany, India, Portugal, Romania, Brazil, China, the United States, or South Africa
- Individuals with recognized refugee status in Germany are also eligible
- For MBA and MSc programs: applicants must be 30 years old or younger as of September 1, 2026
Eligibility is focused on early-career professionals with technical or analytical backgrounds.
Additional Benefits
Beyond financial support, fellows receive:
- Direct engagement with BMW Group professionals
- Access to industry mentorship and expertise
- Networking opportunities with global leaders
- Exposure to real-world business challenges
- Career development and recruitment opportunities
These benefits aim to strengthen long-term career trajectories.
How the Programme Works
Applicants apply to eligible ESMT Berlin programs and are considered for the fellowship based on academic and professional merit.
Key steps include:
- Applying to the selected MBA or MSc program
- Meeting eligibility criteria for nationality, age, and background
- Demonstrating leadership potential and technical expertise
- Being evaluated for fellowship selection alongside admission
Selection emphasizes leadership potential and innovation capability.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Common issues in applications include:
- Weak alignment with mathematics or technology background requirements
- Lack of leadership or impact experience
- Incomplete or unclear career goals
- Applying outside eligible age or nationality criteria
- Not demonstrating interest in digital transformation or innovation
- Treating the fellowship as only financial support rather than leadership development
Strong applications clearly show both technical expertise and leadership ambition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is the BMW Group Change Maker Fellowship?
It is a fellowship supporting MBA and MSc students at ESMT Berlin with tuition funding and leadership development opportunities.
Q2. Which programs are covered?
Full-time MBA, Global Online MBA, and MSc programs at ESMT Berlin.
Q3. How much funding is available?
Funding ranges from 50 percent to 100 percent tuition coverage depending on the program.
Q4. Who is eligible?
Applicants from specified countries with backgrounds in mathematics or technology-related fields and meeting age requirements.
Q5. What is the age limit?
Applicants must be 30 years old or younger for MBA and MSc programs as of September 1, 2026.
Q6. What additional benefits are included?
Access to BMW Group experts, mentorship, networking, and career development opportunities.
Q7. What is the focus of the fellowship?
Leadership, digital transformation, technology, entrepreneurship, and global business education.
Conclusion
The ESMT Berlin and BMW Group Change Maker Fellowships provide a unique combination of financial support and leadership development for students in business, mathematics, and technology fields. By combining tuition funding with mentorship, global exposure, and industry engagement, the programme aims to prepare future leaders capable of driving innovation, digital transformation, and responsible business impact.
For more information, visit ESMT Berlin.
