The European Forum Alpbach (EFA) is one of Europe’s premier platforms for dialogue, innovation, and leadership development. Every year, hundreds of talented students, young professionals, and changemakers from around the globe gather in the picturesque village of Alpbach, Austria, to engage with thought leaders, policymakers, and peers in a truly immersive environment. At the heart of this experience is the EFA Scholarship Programme, which provides fully funded opportunities for first-time participants to attend the forum, offering access to seminars, conferences, workshops, and vibrant cultural activities. What Makes the EFA Scholarship Special? Unlike standard conference passes, EFA scholarships allow recipients to stay for the full duration of the forum, typically almost two weeks, in the scenic Tyrolean Alps. During this time, scholarship holders participate in an array of academic, artistic, and competence-based seminars and studios, gaining exposure to cutting-edge discussions on global affairs, science, and social innovation. Each year, around 350 scholarships are awarded by the European Forum Alpbach and the Forum Alpbach Network (FAN). This selected group becomes part of a dynamic community, interacting closely with decision-makers, renowned experts, and fellow emerging leaders. Past scholarship recipients often describe their experiences as transformative, noting that the forum provided moments that reshaped their personal and professional paths. One alum shared: “It was one of those moments that changes your direction, that you later can clearly trace a lot of things back to.” Programs and Seminars at EFA26 The EFA scholarship experience combines academic rigor with networking and cultural immersion. Scholarship holders at EFA26 can attend seminars on contemporary topics such as “Power, Activism, and Change” with influential academics like Alberto Alemanno from HEC Paris. Participants also take part in interactive discussions with leaders from diverse fields. Recent sessions featured conversations with: Wolfgang Ischinger – President of the Foundation Council, Munich Security Conference Foundation Peter Bosek – CEO, Erste Group Corinna Milborn – Director of Information, ProSiebenSat1Puls4 Beate Meinl-Reisinger – Austrian Federal Minister for European and International Affairs Jan Lipavský – Czech Minister of Foreign Affairs Oana Țoiu – Romanian Minister of Foreign Affairs Additionally, scholarship holders engage in experiential learning opportunities such as hikes paired with discussion sessions. For example, participants discussed the mainstreaming of extremism with Armin Laschet, Member and Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Affairs of the German Bundestag and Co-Chair of the EFA Strategic Advisory Council. This combination of seminars, conferences, and interactive activities ensures that scholarship holders not only gain knowledge but also develop leadership, critical thinking, and intercultural communication skills. Lifelong Community and Networking The EFA experience does not end when the forum concludes. Through the Forum Alpbach Network (FAN), alumni stay connected across borders, participating in ongoing initiatives in 20 countries and fostering a global community committed to shaping a better Europe. This network offers numerous opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth, making the EFA scholarship experience truly transformative and long-lasting. Scholarship recipients often maintain strong bonds with peers and mentors, which can become invaluable in their future careers in diplomacy, politics, international organizations, and civil society. Scholarship Overview The EFA Scholarship Programme covers participation costs, including access to seminars, workshops, and cultural events. While specific packages may vary, the scholarship is designed to enable talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to attend without financial barriers. Who can apply: Students and young professionals Changemakers with a strong interest in European and global issues First-time participants at the European Forum Alpbach Application period for EFA26: Open: 2 March 2026 Deadline: 22 March 2026 (2 PM – 11:59 PM CET) Applicants are encouraged to prepare documents carefully and follow the guidelines on scholarship eligibility. The program also addresses the responsible use of AI in application submissions, ensuring fairness and integrity. Q&A Webinars for Applicants For prospective scholarship candidates, EFA hosts interactive Q&A sessions to clarify the application process and provide insights into the programme: Webinar #1: Thursday, 26 February 2026, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM CET Webinar #2: Wednesday, 4 March 2026, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM CET Webinar #3: Tuesday, 17 March 2026, 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM CET These webinars provide a unique opportunity to speak directly with the organizers, ensuring candidates understand what is expected and how to maximize their chances of selection. Why You Should Apply The EFA Scholarship Programme is not just about attending seminars or listening to keynote speeches—it is about immersive learning, networking, and personal transformation. Scholarship holders gain direct access to decision-makers, participate in thought-provoking discussions, and experience a unique cultural environment. Beyond the forum, alumni benefit from lifelong connections, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to contribute to global and European initiatives. For young professionals and students aiming to shape their careers in international relations, policy-making, or leadership, EFA scholarships are a life-changing opportunity. By joining EFA26, you’ll become part of a global community committed to dialogue, innovation, and positive societal impact. Contact for inquiries: Melissa Német – Unit Communities | Stakeholder Manager | Scholarship Programme Email: scholarships@alpbach.org Apply for the EFA26 Scholarship Programme and take your first step toward becoming a global changemaker. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.