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Submissions open for ZIS Scholarship

Deadline: 15-Feb-2026

The ZIS Scholarship offers young travelers aged 16–20 the opportunity to undertake a self-organised, topic-based journey connected to German culture, supported with mentoring and financial assistance. The program provides €700, preparation workshops, and ongoing mentorship, emphasizing slow travel and deep cultural engagement. Participants document their experiences through diaries and a research study or creative project, receiving guidance and evaluation from experienced mentors and a jury.

Overview

The ZIS Scholarship empowers young individuals to explore German culture and topics related to German-speaking countries through independent travel. Participants receive mentoring, financial support, and access to a network of like-minded young explorers while developing research and personal growth skills.

Program Objectives and Focus Areas

  • Foster independent learning and research through travel

  • Encourage slow travel by land or sea, minimizing air travel for deeper engagement

  • Support cultural understanding in German-speaking countries or topics related to German culture

  • Promote self-organisation, planning, and reflective documentation of travel experiences

Scholarship Benefits

  • Grant: €700 to cover travel and living expenses

  • Mentoring: Intensive guidance from experienced mentors before and during the journey

  • Preparation Workshop: Held in May at Salem Monastery and Palace to refine travel concepts

  • Recommendation Letter: Provided upon completion of the program

  • Access to a network of motivated young travelers

Eligibility Criteria

  • Age: 16–20 years old at the start of the journey

  • Residency: Must live in Germany

  • Travel: Non-German applicants must travel to a German-speaking country or focus on a German-related topic

  • Travel Mode: Slow travel by land or sea; air travel is not permitted

  • Applicants must be able to undertake an independent journey for at least four weeks

Special Considerations

  • Flexibility is provided for participants with disabilities or medical conditions, including assistance, medical stops, or breaks

  • ZIS does not assist with visa applications

How the Scholarship Works

  1. Application Submission: Complete the online application with travel concept and personal details

  2. Preparation Workshop: Participate in mentoring sessions to refine travel plans at Salem Monastery and Palace

  3. Conduct Journey: Travel independently, following the approved plan, and document experiences in a diary

  4. Documentation: Submit within three months of returning:

    • Diary or journal of experiences and reflections

    • 8,000-word research study or approved alternative format (film, website, performance, or artistic workpiece)

    • Complete expense report

Application Requirements

  • Detailed travel concept connecting the journey to German culture

  • Personal statement and motivation

  • Proposed route and timeline

  • Alternative documentation plan if using a creative medium

  • Consent forms for participants under 18

Evaluation Criteria

  • Quality of travel concept and research or artistic plan

  • Engagement with cultural and educational objectives

  • Evidence of self-organisation, reflection, and critical thinking

  • Journals or creative documentation submitted after the journey

  • Assessment by at least three jury members in collaboration with mentors

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Planning air travel instead of slow travel

  • Submitting incomplete or poorly documented travel concepts

  • Ignoring mentorship guidance during preparation

  • Failing to submit the diary, research study, or expense report on time

  • Choosing topics without sufficient connection to German culture

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the maximum age to apply?

Applicants must be between 16 and 20 years old at the start of the journey.

2. Can the scholarship cover air travel?

No. The ZIS Scholarship emphasizes slow travel by land or sea.

3. Are non-German residents eligible?

Yes, if they travel to a German-speaking country or choose a topic connected to German culture.

4. Does ZIS assist with visa applications?

No, participants are responsible for all visa requirements.

5. How should the research or artistic work be submitted?

All documentation must be submitted within three months of returning and can include creative formats with a reflective written report.

6. How long should the travel journey last?

The journey must be at least four weeks.

7. Is mentoring provided throughout the journey?

Yes, mentors support participants during preparation and maintain guidance during travel.

Conclusion

The ZIS Scholarship is an exceptional opportunity for young people to explore German culture through independent, self-organized travel. With financial support, mentoring, and professional guidance, participants gain valuable research and cultural experiences while developing autonomy, reflection, and critical thinking skills that extend beyond the program.

For more information, visit zis Stiftung für Studienreisen.