The IFA RAVE Scholarship 2027 is now accepting applications from cultural professionals from developing and transition countries. Funded by the Alexander Rave Foundation and administered by the Institut für Auslandsbeziehungen (ifa), this prestigious scholarship supports professionals working in cultural heritage, museums, archives, collections, and exhibition spaces.

The scholarship provides an opportunity to spend several months at a host institution in Germany, gain international experience, develop professional skills, build global networks, and contribute to the transformation of museums and cultural institutions worldwide.

About the IFA RAVE Scholarship

The Scholarship on the Management of Cultural Heritage and the Transformation of Museums and Exhibition Centres is designed to strengthen international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and cultural dialogue. Participants work directly with museums, galleries, archives, and cultural institutions in Germany while developing innovative approaches to cultural heritage preservation and museum transformation.

The scholarship particularly focuses on:

• Cultural participation and community engagement
• Sustainability in museums and cultural institutions
• Creating non-discriminatory and inclusive spaces
• Decolonial approaches to museum and heritage work
• Cultural heritage management and preservation
• Collections and archive management

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive:

Financial Benefits

• Monthly stipend of €1,500 (net)
• Travel costs for arrival and departure
• Health insurance coverage
• Public transportation pass within the host city
• Language course support up to €500

Family Support

• €250 monthly allowance for spouse
• €250 monthly allowance per child
• Health insurance coverage for accompanying family members

Professional Benefits

• Hands-on experience at a German host institution
• International networking opportunities
• Exposure to innovative museum practices
• Professional mentorship and guidance
• Long-term collaboration opportunities
• Participation in global cultural exchange initiatives

Eligible Fields

The scholarship is open to professionals working in areas such as:

• Museum Studies
• Cultural Heritage Management
• Curatorship
• Restoration and Conservation
• Cultural Management
• Museum Education and Mediation
• Archives and Collections Management
• Exhibition Development
• Heritage Preservation

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the IFA RAVE Scholarship, applicants must:

• Be a permanent resident of a country listed on the OECD DAC List of Development Assistance Recipients.
• Have completed higher education or vocational training.
• Work professionally in cultural heritage, museums, archives, collections, or related cultural sectors.
• Have strong English language skills (German language skills are an advantage but not mandatory).
• Secure a non-commercial host institution in Germany before applying.
• Develop a joint project proposal with the host institution.
• Not receive another scholarship or participate in another residency during the scholarship period.

The scholarship welcomes applications from professionals working independently, within institutions, or as members of cultural collectives.

Duration of the Scholarship

• Scholarship duration: 3 to 6 months
• Scholarship period: February 2027 to December 2027
• Optional reciprocal visit: 2 to 12 weeks

The scholarship requires regular in-person participation at the host institution.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form
• Invitation letter from the German host institution
• Joint project concept note developed with the host institution
• Reference letter from a supervisor or professional mentor
• CV and employment records
• Proof of educational qualifications
• Host institution’s non-profit status documentation

All documents must be submitted in English or German.

Application Process

Step 1: Identify a Host Institution

Applicants must first find a suitable non-profit museum, gallery, archive, research center, or cultural institution in Germany.

Step 2: Develop a Joint Project

Work together with the host institution to create a detailed project concept outlining objectives, responsibilities, and expected outcomes.

Step 3: Gather Supporting Documents

Prepare all required documents before starting the online application because the system does not allow temporary saving.

Step 4: Submit Online Application

Complete and submit the official online application form before the deadline.

Application Deadline

Deadline: 30 June 2026

Selected candidates are expected to be notified by September 2026.