Forum / Summit•Austria · Alpbach

European Forum Alpbach Scholarship Programme

Funding

Partial / Stipend

Program dates

Aug 24, 2026 – Sep 4, 2026

The European Forum Alpbach (EFA) is an annual gathering of seminars, conferences and cultural activities held in the mountain village of Alpbach, Austria. Its Scholarship Programme, run by the European Forum Alpbach Foundation together with the Forum Alpbach Network (FAN) of alumni clubs, brings roughly 350 young students, professionals and changemakers from all countries and disciplines to attend the Forum each year. Scholarship holders take part in the full multi-day programme, joining debates on politics, economy, science and society alongside international speakers and peers.

Benefits & funding

  • Full waiver of the Forum participation fee.
  • Accommodation for the entire Forum, from 24 August to 4 September 2026 (11 nights).
  • Need- and merit-based advanced scholarships may add a lump-sum contribution toward travel and on-site expenses, subject to available funds.
  • Access to the full Forum programme, networking with international participants, speakers and the FAN alumni community.
  • Note: scholarship holders cover their own travel, daily expenses and health/travel insurance.

Eligibility

  • Open to applicants from all countries and academic or professional backgrounds; students, young professionals and non-academic changemakers are all welcome.
  • Up to 30 years old (born after 4 September 1995); citizens of the Global South up to 35 years old (born after 4 September 1990). Applicants under 18 may apply if born before 24 August 2008.
  • First-time onsite scholarship holders only — those who previously attended the Forum onsite on a scholarship cannot reapply (digital-only 2020–2021 attendees may apply).
  • Fluent English (minimum level B2) is expected, as the Forum is held in English.
  • Willingness to attend the Forum in full; supporting academic or employment documentation is required.

Application process

  1. 1
    Apply online through the EFA scholarship platform during the March application window, or through a regional FAN Club that runs its own selection.
  2. 2
    Complete the application form and upload the required documents (transcript, diploma or proof of employment).
  3. 3
    Await selection; applicants are notified of results by the end of May 2026.
  4. 4
    Selected scholars confirm participation and arrange their own travel to Alpbach.

Program timeline

  1. Application platform opens

    Mar 2, 2026

  2. Application deadline

    Mar 22, 2026

  3. Selection results announced

    End of May 2026

  4. Forum begins (accommodation starts)

    Aug 24, 2026

  5. Forum ends

    Sep 4, 2026