Bayerische Begabtenförderung (Hochbegabtenförderung) [Bavarian Scholarship for Gifted (and Extremely Gifted) Students] and Eliteförderung (BayEFG) [Elite Programs]

The new scholarship legislation which takes effect on May 1, 2005 combines the previous Bavarian Scholarships for Gifted Students with the Bavarian Graduate Scholarships. Gifted students and highly qualified scholarly junior employees are invited to participate in structured Elite Programs.

Scholarships
Basically, the Bavarian Gymnasien [secondary schools] and universities are authorized to give scholarship nominations. Starting in the third semester of studies, students themselves may also apply. At least two recommendations from university professors must accompany the application. Except for rare exceptions, the scholarship recipient may not be older than 23 at the time of receiving the scholarship.

Basically, Gifted Student Scholarships entail acceptance to an extracurricular honours program. Financial aid is given only for the purpose of studying abroad, or to support individual projects which relate to one's studies. Financial aid to cover the cost of living is not available.
The form of these scholarships has been changed from simple financial aid to programs to develop academic and personal ability.

Graduierten- und Postgraduiertenförderung [Graduate- and Postgraduate Scholarships]
Students in PhD programs who have distinguished themselves by doing extremely well in their studies and on exams may be recommended for this type of scholarship by people who advise dissertations and research projects in Bavaria. Applications directly from a student cannot be accepted. Graduate and postgraduate students who are granted a scholarship receive financial support for their costs of living, to allow them to focus all their attention on their academic projects. The scholarship is given solely on the basis of merit. Except for rare exceptions, the scholarship recipient may not be older than 30 at the time of receiving the scholarship.

Bayerisches Begabtenförderungsgesetz (BayBFG) [Bavarian Gifted Student Legislation]
The Bavarian Begabtenförderungsgesetz (BayBFG) [Gifted Student Legislation] and the legislation for scholarships for the next generation of scientists and artists is due to expire. For students who were given a scholarship before 12.31.2004, the The Bavarian Begabtenförderungsgesetz (BayBFG) [Gifted Student Legislation] remains valid to the end of their studies. However, the Eliteförderungsgesetz [Elite Scholarships Legislation] allows recipients of the BayBFG scholarships to change to the new type of scholarship.

Detailed information is available online at www.elitenetzwerk-bayern.de.