Horizons – Claussen-Simon Foundation

The Horizonte scholarship program of the Claussen-Simon Foundation is aimed at teacher training students at the University of Hamburg with their own or family migration background and seeks to actively contribute to diverse school communities. As an award, the program honors outstanding academic achievements (from the 1st Bachelor to the 3rd Master semester) and promotes the pedagogical as well as personal development of committed future teachers. The application period runs from May 18 to June 28, 2026. Selected scholarship recipients benefit from individual support by an interdisciplinary advisory board, workshops, and a network that strengthens exchange on social engagement and equal opportunities in school practice.

Eligible applicants are individuals who demonstrate very good German language skills (at least level B1) and can already show initial pedagogical experience as well as social, familial, or societal engagement. Enrollment in a teacher training program at the University of Hamburg or a complementary course of study is a prerequisite. Selection is based on the criteria of academic performance, pedagogical expertise, social engagement, migration background perspective, as well as motivation and suitability for the teaching profession. Applications require online registration in the application portal, supplemented by two confidential letters of recommendation (one from an academic-school context and one from a social context) and proof of German language proficiency. The multi-stage selection process includes a written submission, an essay, and a personal interview. Horizonte specifically invites applicants to help shape the school as a place of learning and to use their own migration history as an enrichment in pedagogical dialogue.