"Language is the key to the world", Wilhelm von Humboldt already knew. That is why Mercator Foundation supports network members with the Alumni Language Learning Grant to expand their language and intercultural skills to be able to actively contribute to international understanding. The funding particularly supports young alumni from the foundation's network who want to broaden their competences through language courses and expand their knowledge and understanding of Germany, China or Turkey.
The grant is aimed at Mercator alumni from the age of 16. We especially encourage highschool and university students, trainees and young professionals as well as multipliers in international exchange to apply for the grant and expand their language skills. (Current staff members of Stiftung Mercator, its partner associations or project partners are not eligible to apply.)
What does the grant include?
Alumni have the opportunity to receive a one-time grant to start or continue their language learning. Participation in the course (face-to-face course or online seminar) in the following target languages can be supported:
*Chinese, for example in courses at
* German, for example in courses at
* Turkish, for example in courses at
* The organizers listed here are not recommendations or evaluations on our part. Funding for courses at other recognized language institutes in Germany and abroad is possible upon review.
How can I apply for funding?
Explain briefly what motivates you to learn the language and tell us which language course you would like to take. You can do this easily via our online application form. Applications can be submitted until 30 April 2023 at the latest.
Apply here:
CALL FOR APPLICATIONS | Alumni Language Learning Grant
How would I receive the grant?
The costs will be reimbursed after the language course and after submitting the relevant receipts. After completing the course, you will receive a link to the online evaluation of the language course, which you should fill out before the reimbursement of costs. We need to receive the following documents by post within four weeks after the end of your language course to process the reimbursement:
- Reimbursement form (use the template of Stiftung Mercator)
- Original receipts
I still have a question about the grant - who can help me?
We are happy to answer any questions you may have - please email us at alumni@stiftung-mercator.de.
What do participants say?
