The UNU Bonn Scholarship 2027 in Germany offers an excellent opportunity for professionals from eligible developing and emerging countries to pursue a two-year Master of Science in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security. The programme is jointly offered by the United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security (UNU-EHS) and the Department of Geography at the University of Bonn.

Supported through the DAAD EPOS scholarship programme, the opportunity provides limited fully funded scholarships to qualified candidates. The MSc is taught entirely in English and focuses on environmental risks, climate change, disaster management, vulnerability, resilience, adaptation and human security.

UNU Bonn Scholarship 2027 Overview

The Joint MSc in Geography of Environmental Risks and Human Security combines advanced academic learning with practical training. Students explore how environmental and climate-related risks affect communities and how effective development strategies can strengthen resilience and human security.

The programme also provides an interdisciplinary and intercultural learning environment, with opportunities to engage in research at UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn. Graduates can pursue careers in climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, humanitarian assistance, environmental governance and international development.

UNU Bonn Scholarship Benefits

Successful DAAD EPOS scholarship recipients may receive comprehensive financial support during their studies in Germany. The benefits include:

• Monthly scholarship payment of €992
• Contributions toward health insurance
• Accident insurance coverage
• Personal liability insurance
• Travel allowance, unless travel costs are covered elsewhere
• Monthly rent subsidy, depending on individual circumstances
• Allowance for accompanying family members, where applicable
• No tuition fees for the Joint MSc

Applicants should note that although there are no tuition fees, students may still be responsible for institutional contributions and other living expenses.

UNU Bonn Scholarship Eligibility Criteria

The UNU Bonn Scholarship is designed primarily for professionals from developing and emerging countries who want to use their education to contribute to sustainable development.

Applicants should generally meet the following requirements:

• Be from an eligible developing or emerging country.
• Hold an appropriate bachelor’s degree.
• Have strong academic performance, normally within the upper third of the graduating class.
• Have at least two years of relevant professional experience after completing the bachelor’s degree.
• Complete the required professional experience by the application deadline.
• Have obtained the most recent academic degree no more than six years before the deadline.
• Not already hold a similar master’s degree.
• Demonstrate motivation for a practitioner-oriented career in development.
• Show strong development-related motivation and social responsibility.
• Be committed to completing the Joint MSc programme.
• Normally not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months by the application deadline.

The scholarship is competitive, and admission to the MSc programme does not automatically guarantee DAAD EPOS funding.

What Will You Study in the Programme?

The Joint MSc develops both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to environmental risks and human security. Students examine vulnerability, resilience and adaptation across different geographical settings, with particular attention to developing countries and the Global South.

The programme also strengthens qualitative and quantitative research abilities. Students can develop practical expertise in geographical information systems and remote sensing while gaining exposure to research projects conducted by UNU-EHS and the University of Bonn.

Another important advantage is the programme's connection with the United Nations system and international organisations. This can help students understand how research, policy and development practice interact in addressing complex global challenges.

English Language Requirements

Because the programme is taught in English, applicants must demonstrate sufficient English proficiency. The stated minimum level is generally B2, while C1 is recommended.

Accepted qualifications can include recognised English tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT and Duolingo English Test, subject to the programme's specified minimum scores. Applicants should carefully check the current requirements before submitting their application.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare their documents carefully because the application has specific formatting and submission requirements. Typical documents include:

• Signed and dated online application confirmation
• Motivation letter
• Europass CV
• Academic degree certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency
• Passport copy
• Required references and scholarship forms
• Academic writing sample

Documents should be scanned clearly rather than photographed with a smartphone. Where necessary, applicants should provide certified translations.

The main application documents must be merged into one PDF of no more than 8MB and named using the format LastName.

FirstName.pdf. The academic writing sample must be submitted separately.Do not send original certificates or paper applications by post. Applicants may be asked to present original documents later for verification.

How to Apply for UNU Bonn Scholarship 2027

The application process begins online. Applicants should complete the online form and obtain the application confirmation sent by email. The confirmation must then be signed, dated and included with the required documents.

Applicants should arrange all documents in the exact order specified by the programme and submit the complete application package by email to master-georisk@ehs.unu.edu.

For the 2027 intake, the stated deadline is 31 October 2026 at 23:59 Central European Time. Both the online application and the complete document package must be received before the deadline.

You can begin the application through the programme's application portal and consult the official programme information before submitting your documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the UNU Bonn Scholarship fully funded?

The DAAD EPOS scholarship provides substantial financial support, including a €992 monthly payment, insurance contributions and other allowances. However, only a limited number of scholarships are available, so admission does not guarantee funding.

Is the UNU Bonn MSc tuition-free?

Yes. The Joint MSc has no tuition fees. However, students are required to pay institutional contributions, including approximately €310 per semester to the University of Bonn and €100 to UNU during each of the first three semesters, according to the provided programme information.

Can final-year bachelor students apply?

Yes, final-year students may apply using their current academic transcripts. If admitted, they must complete their degree and provide the final transcript and degree certificate before the programme begins in October 2027.

How long is the UNU Bonn programme?

The Joint MSc is a two-year full-time master's programme based in Bonn, Germany.

Official Website       Apply Now

Follow our Social Media Platforms: WhatsApp Groups | Facebook Page