From October through August, scholars pursue their individual projects. In March or April, scholars participate in a study tour organized by the Humboldt Foundation. In June or July, scholars meet with the Federal Chancellor and meet for a wrap-up session in Bonn. In order to judge the feasibility of the project, the selection committee must know whether a German mentor has agreed to work with you. It is the philosophy of the German Chancellor Scholarship Programme that leaders in German-American relations come from a wide variety of fields.
Leadership can therefore take many different forms appropriate to the respective field.
Applicants should present a record of high achievement, evidence of potential for continued professional accomplishment, and a clearly defined career interest. In addition, the foundation looks for evidence that a candidate will be a leader both within the chosen profession and within the broader community. Initiative, creativity, maturity, strength of character, self-confidence, sensitivity, and a sense of responsibility contribute to the foundation s definition of leadership. German Chancellor Scholarships have been awarded to applicants who completed their undergraduate studies just prior to the program. However, candidates should possess a level of career certainty and professional ambition that is often more refined in candidates with greater professional or academic experience.