The RLF is a political educational organisation closely affiliated with DIE LINKE (The Left Party) which awards scholarships to international students planning to obtain a doctorate or carry out a doctoral research stay in Germany. The sponsorship is based upon the Foundation's political values: social justice and solidarity in particular.

particularly gifted international doctoral candidates from any discipline (except for medical disciplines) and type of higher education institution with a promising topic for a doctoral thesis who can identify with and are committed to the democratic socialism and its values

• admission to a doctoral programme at a state or state-recognised higher education institution in Germany
• proof of proficiency in German at a B2 level

2 years with the option to extend the period twice for 6 months for academic or technical reasons, and up to another year due to illness, disability or parental leave

• Doctoral candidates receive a grant of 1,450 EUR each month plus a mobility allowance of 100 EUR and, if necessary, health care subsidies.

Further information on the application procedure can be found here.

1 April and 1 October of each year