The Impact AI Fellowship 2027 in Germany is now open for applications, offering a €5,000 stipend to researchers and professionals interested in artificial intelligence, sustainability, and public-interest technology. Organised by the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG), this ten-week research fellowship will take place from 16 August to 22 October 2027.
- Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Details
- Benefits of the Impact AI Fellowship 2027
- Eligibility Criteria for the Impact AI Fellowship
- Available Research Fields
- Required Documents for the Impact AI Fellowship
- Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Programme Schedule
- How to Apply for the Impact AI Fellowship 2027
- Step 1: Visit the Official Fellowship Website
- Step 2: Review the Eligibility Criteria
- Step 3: Prepare Your CV
- Step 4: Write Your Motivation Letter
- Step 5: Prepare an Optional Project Proposal
- Step 6: Complete the Online Application
- Step 7: Submit Your Application
- Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Application Deadline
- Selection Process and Application Tips
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 1. Is the Impact AI Fellowship 2027 fully funded?
- 2. Can international applicants apply?
- 3. Is IELTS required for the Impact AI Fellowship?
- 4. Can bachelor’s degree holders apply?
- 5. Is the Impact AI Fellowship completely online?
- 6. What is the application deadline?
- Final Thoughts
- Official Links
Selected fellows will receive research training, expert guidance, networking opportunities, and financial support. The programme includes mandatory workshops in Berlin and independent research activities that may be completed remotely during certain weeks.
Applicants from academia, journalism, civil society, public institutions, and companies are encouraged to apply. A master’s degree is required, but an established academic publication record is not mandatory.
The application deadline is 15 January 2027.
For another opportunity in Germany, explore the Hertie School Digital Governance Scholarship, which supports postgraduate studies in public policy.
Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Details
| Fellowship Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | Impact AI Fellowship |
| Host Institution | Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG) |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Location | Berlin |
| Programme Type | Research Fellowship |
| Fellowship Duration | 10 Weeks |
| Programme Dates | 16 August – 22 October 2027 |
| Funding Amount | €5,000 |
| Additional Financial Support | Conditional travel and accommodation assistance |
| Minimum Qualification | Master’s Degree |
| Eligible Backgrounds | Research, Journalism, Civil Society, Public Sector, Industry |
| Application Status | Open |
| Application Deadline | 15 January 2027 |
| Application Method | Online |
you can also apply IMF Fund Internship Program 2027 in USA | Paid PhD Internship
Benefits of the Impact AI Fellowship 2027
Selected fellows will receive financial support and practical research experience through the programme.
The main benefits include:
- €5,000 fixed stipend for the ten-week fellowship.
- Training in the Impact AI Method.
- Workshops with researchers and experienced professionals.
- Individual supervision from the HIIG research team.
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration.
- Lead authorship of an AI impact assessment case report.
- Potential future research collaboration and publication opportunities.
- Possible additional support for necessary travel and accommodation.
Important: The €5,000 stipend includes any applicable tax or social security expenses. Travel and accommodation assistance is provided individually, subject to available resources. Fellows are generally responsible for visa fees, health insurance, meals, and other personal expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for the Impact AI Fellowship
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Hold at least a master’s degree.
- Have an interest in artificial intelligence, sustainability, or technology serving the public interest.
- Demonstrate the ability to conduct independent research.
- Be willing to learn and apply a structured research assessment method.
- Have strong motivation for interdisciplinary research.
- Be available for mandatory in-person sessions in Berlin.
- Participate in regular online meetings and programme activities.
- Commit to completing the required research report.
HIIG welcomes applicants from academic institutions, journalism, civil society organisations, public institutions, and relevant companies.
Professional or research experience is beneficial, but a formal academic publication record is not required.
The official announcement does not state nationality restrictions or a mandatory IELTS score. International applicants should nevertheless check their eligibility and visa requirements directly with the organiser.
Available Research Fields
The Impact AI Fellowship focuses on the effects of artificial intelligence on society and the environment.
Relevant research interests include:
- Artificial Intelligence and Society
- AI Ethics and Governance
- Environmental Sustainability
- Responsible Artificial Intelligence
- Technology and Public Policy
- Social Impact Assessment
- Digital Transformation
- Public Interest Technology
Fellows will apply the Impact AI Method to a real-world AI application. This involves gathering evidence, conducting interviews, analysing findings, and preparing an assessment report.
Applicants do not need to have their own AI project before applying.
International students interested in other opportunities in Germany can also explore the DAAD University Summer Courses Scholarship.
Required Documents for the Impact AI Fellowship
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV: Maximum four pages.
- Motivation Letter: Maximum two pages, describing AI expertise, professional or organisational background, and motivation for participating.
- AI Project Description: Maximum two pages, only if the applicant wishes to propose a specific AI project.
The supporting documents must be combined into one file and submitted through the official online application form.
Applicants should ensure that their documents are relevant, clearly written, and within the stated page limits.
Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Programme Schedule
The fellowship combines in-person workshops, independent research, and online collaboration.
| Programme Activity | Dates |
|---|---|
| Mandatory Online Preparatory Session | 11 May 2027 |
| First In-Person Workshop Week | 16–20 August 2027 |
| Independent Research Phase | 23 August – 1 October 2027 |
| Second In-Person Workshop Week | 4–8 October 2027 |
| Final Assessment and Report Writing | 11–22 October 2027 |
Both in-person workshop weeks in Berlin are mandatory and require full-time participation.
Remote or part-time work may be possible during the remaining weeks, depending on individual arrangements and programme requirements.
How to Apply for the Impact AI Fellowship 2027
Interested candidates should follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Fellowship Website
Open the official Impact AI Fellowship announcement published by HIIG.
Step 2: Review the Eligibility Criteria
Check the qualification requirements, programme schedule, and mandatory participation conditions.
Step 3: Prepare Your CV
Create a professional CV highlighting your education, research interests, relevant projects, and professional experience.
Step 4: Write Your Motivation Letter
Explain why you want to join the fellowship, describe your AI expertise, and demonstrate your interest in the societal and environmental impacts of artificial intelligence.
Step 5: Prepare an Optional Project Proposal
Applicants with a relevant AI use case may submit a short project description. This document is optional.
Step 6: Complete the Online Application
Fill out the application form on the official HIIG website and upload the supporting documents as one combined file.
Step 7: Submit Your Application
Review your information carefully and submit the application before 15 January 2027.
Check this UNU Junior Fellows Internship 2027 in Japan | Paid UN Internship
Impact AI Fellowship 2027 Application Deadline
The official deadline for the Impact AI Fellowship 2027 is 15 January 2027.
The programme begins on 16 August 2027, with a compulsory online preparatory session scheduled for 11 May 2027.
HIIG has also announced optional information sessions on 10 November and 17 November 2026.
Applicants are encouraged to prepare their documents early and follow the official website for updates.
Selection Process and Application Tips
The official announcement emphasises research motivation, interdisciplinary collaboration, independent working ability, and a strong interest in assessing artificial intelligence.
To prepare a competitive application:
- Explain your specific research interests.
- Demonstrate how your previous experience relates to the programme.
- Discuss an AI-related social or environmental challenge.
- Show that you can complete research independently.
- Explain why the fellowship’s assessment method interests you.
- Confirm your availability for the mandatory Berlin workshops.
A clear motivation letter that connects your experience to the programme’s objectives will help reviewers understand your suitability.
HIIG has not published a detailed selection timetable or guaranteed interview process in the official announcement.
For another funded European postgraduate opportunity, explore the MAPP Erasmus Mundus Scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the Impact AI Fellowship 2027 fully funded?
The programme provides a €5,000 stipend, with possible additional travel and accommodation support. However, it does not guarantee coverage of every expense.
2. Can international applicants apply?
The official announcement does not specify nationality restrictions. Applicants requiring visas should verify entry requirements and their ability to attend the mandatory sessions.
3. Is IELTS required for the Impact AI Fellowship?
The official fellowship announcement does not list an IELTS or TOEFL requirement. Applicants should confirm any language-related expectations with HIIG.
4. Can bachelor’s degree holders apply?
No. Applicants must hold at least a master’s degree.
5. Is the Impact AI Fellowship completely online?
No. Fellows must attend two mandatory in-person workshop weeks in Berlin. Some other activities can be completed remotely under agreed arrangements.
6. What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 15 January 2027.
Final Thoughts
The Impact AI Fellowship 2027 offers researchers and professionals a valuable opportunity to study the real-world effects of artificial intelligence while gaining practical research experience in Germany.
With a €5,000 stipend, expert mentoring, and interdisciplinary research activities, the programme is particularly relevant to applicants interested in responsible AI, sustainability, and public-interest technology.
Eligible candidates should review the official requirements and submit their applications before 15 January 2027.
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Last verified: 22 October 2026
Author: Muhammad Khayam Afridi — Founder & Editor
Disclaimer: Global Scholarship Point is an independent educational information website and is not affiliated with HIIG. Applicants should verify all conditions on the official programme website before applying.
