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Key facts: European Forum Alpbach Scholarship
- What: a funded place at the European Forum Alpbach, an annual two week forum in the Austrian Alps on Europe’s future
- Covers: the participation fee and accommodation for the whole forum. Applicants in greatest need can also get a lump sum towards travel and costs on site.
- Who: all countries and backgrounds, including non-graduates and artists. Age limit 30, or 35 for applicants from the Global South.
- First time only: you must not have held an onsite Alpbach scholarship before
- Last call: applications ran 2 to 22 March 2026 for the forum held 24 August to 4 September 2026
- Next call: the 2027 dates are not yet published. Based on past years, expect applications in March 2027.
Last checked: November 2026
Every summer, students and young professionals from around the world gather in the village of Alpbach in Tyrol, Austria, for the European Forum Alpbach (EFA). For nearly two weeks they join seminars, debates and conferences with politicians, researchers, business leaders and artists.
The forum’s scholarship programme lets young people attend for free. Around 350 scholarships are awarded each year by the European Forum Alpbach and the Forum Alpbach Network of alumni clubs. This guide explains what the scholarship covers, who can apply and how to prepare for the 2027 call.
What Is the European Forum Alpbach?
The European Forum Alpbach is an interdisciplinary forum held every year in Alpbach. Its programme is organised around themes such as security, democracy and the rule of law, finance and the economy, and climate. Scholarship holders are the only participants expected to stay for the whole forum, which gives them the most time for learning and networking.
What the Scholarship Covers
- The participation fee for the entire forum
- Accommodation in Alpbach for the forum period
- Advanced scholarship: a lump sum towards travel and costs on site, given to the applicants in greatest need, subject to funds
Not covered: daily expenses, travel to and from Alpbach (unless you receive the lump sum), and health and travel insurance. Applicants who can afford their own accommodation are encouraged to pay for it.
Who Can Apply?
- Applicants from all countries and all disciplines, including non-graduates and artists
- Age: up to 30, or up to 35 for applicants from the Global South
- You must be a first time scholarship holder. If you attended digitally as an e-scholar in 2020 or 2021, you can still apply.
- You must be able to attend the full forum. Leaving early can mean losing the scholarship.
Applicants from disadvantaged or minority backgrounds, people with disabilities and refugees are encouraged to apply and can mention this in their motivation statement.
How to Apply
There are two routes:
- EFA online platform: apply free of charge through the EFA application portal during the March window. No recommendation letter is required, and email or postal applications are not accepted.
- Forum Alpbach Network (FAN) clubs: some regional alumni clubs run their own selection and scholarships. If a club covers your region, check its website and deadlines.
2027 timeline (expected)
- March 2027: application window (2 to 22 March in 2026)
- By the end of May 2027: results
- Within 7 days of your offer: accept or decline
- Late August to early September 2027: the forum
Tips for a Strong Application
- Explain clearly why the forum’s themes matter to your studies, work or community.
- Show what you will do with what you learn after Alpbach.
- If you need the advanced scholarship, explain your financial situation honestly.
- Apply early in the window. The application period is short.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the European Forum Alpbach scholarship fully funded?
It covers your participation fee and accommodation. Travel and daily costs are only covered for those who also receive the needs based lump sum.
When is the Alpbach scholarship deadline?
The 2026 call closed on 22 March 2026. The 2027 dates have not been published yet, but the call usually runs in March.
Can I apply if I have attended before?
Not for a regular scholarship if you were an onsite scholarship holder. Past scholars can apply to be seminar assistants instead.
Do I need a degree?
No. Non-graduates and artists are welcome to apply.