The Munich International Youth Fellowships 2027 offer an international research opportunity at the International Youth Library (IYL) in Munich, Germany. The programme is designed for researchers working in the fields of children’s literature, young adult literature, illustration, and related areas.
Selected fellows can spend 6 weeks to 3 months conducting research at the International Youth Library. Fellows receive a €1,300 monthly scholarship to contribute toward living expenses in Munich, along with access to the library’s extensive international collection and support from specialist staff.
Munich International Youth Fellowships 2027 – Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Institution | International Youth Library (IYL) |
| Location | Munich, Germany |
| Fellowship Type | Research Fellowship |
| Research Period | 6 weeks to 3 months |
| Monthly Stipend | €1,300 |
| Eligible Applicants | Graduates, doctoral candidates, PhD holders and eligible authors/researchers |
| Citizenship | Non-German citizens |
| Research Areas | Children’s and young adult literature, illustration and related research |
| Languages | German and/or English |
| Application Deadline | 30 September 2026 |
| Research Year | 2027 |
About the International Youth Library
The International Youth Library is located at Blutenburg Castle in Munich and is an international research centre specializing in children’s and young adult literature.
The library provides researchers with access to approximately 650,000 books in 260 languages, making it an important resource for international research in children’s and youth literature.
The fellowship programme has been running for more than 60 years and supports academic exchange, international cooperation and research in children’s and young adult literature and illustration.
What Does the Fellowship Provide?
Successful applicants receive several forms of support during their research stay.
€1,300 Monthly Scholarship
Fellows receive a €1,300 monthly scholarship intended to help cover living expenses in Munich.
Research Workplace
Fellows receive a workplace in the library’s scientific reading room and can use the International Youth Library’s extensive collection of children’s, youth and specialist literature.
Access to International Collections
The library’s collection contains approximately 650,000 books in 260 languages, giving researchers access to a wide range of international materials.
Expert Support
Fellows can benefit from the expertise of librarians and children’s book specialists while conducting their research.
Accommodation Assistance
The International Youth Library provides support in finding suitable accommodation for the duration of the research stay.
Research Presentation
Fellows can participate in a poster session where they present the current state of their research.
Who Can Apply?
The International Youth Library states that the fellowship is intended for:
- Graduates
- Doctoral candidates
- PhD holders
- Young researchers
- Researchers working on relevant projects
- Authors who need to consult international literature for a specific publication project
Applicants must be non-German citizens and have sufficient proficiency in German and/or English.
Importantly, this is a specialized research fellowship, not a general scholarship for studying any subject in Germany. Your proposed research should have a clear connection to children’s or young adult literature, illustration, or related research areas.
Research Areas
Potential research topics can include areas such as:
- Children’s literature
- Young adult literature
- Picture books
- Illustration
- Literary translation
- International children’s literature
- Comparative literature
- Reading culture
- Publishing history
- Cultural studies related to children’s literature
- Research involving international children’s and youth books
Applicants should demonstrate why the International Youth Library’s collection is important for their particular research project.
Required Application Documents
According to the official International Youth Library announcement, applicants need to prepare several documents.
1. Online Application Form
Applicants must complete the official fellowship application form.
2. Cover Letter
The cover letter should introduce you and clearly explain your research project and why a research stay at the International Youth Library is important.
The official guidelines indicate a maximum length of 1–2 pages.
3. Publication and Activity List
Applicants should provide a selection of relevant academic publications, projects and professional activities, particularly those connected to children’s literature.
4. Conference and Seminar List
Applicants should provide relevant conferences, seminars or other academic events in which they have participated as speakers or organizers.
5. Research Project Description
A detailed research project description is required. It should explain:
- The subject of your research
- Your research objectives
- Why the International Youth Library’s resources are important
- Which materials you intend to consult
- Examples of relevant titles available in the IYL collection
The official guidelines specify a maximum of 3 pages for the research project description.
How to Apply for the Munich International Youth Fellowship 2027
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Make sure you meet the requirements regarding citizenship, academic/professional background and language ability.
Step 2: Develop Your Research Project
Prepare a focused research proposal related to children’s or young adult literature, illustration or a closely related field.
Step 3: Search the IYL Collection
Identify books and other materials in the International Youth Library collection that are relevant to your project.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Prepare your application form, cover letter, publication/activity list, conference list and research project description.
Step 5: Submit Your Application Online
Complete the official application process through the International Youth Library.
Step 6: Wait for the Selection Decision
Applications are evaluated by a jury consisting of librarians and children’s book specialists at the International Youth Library.
Application Deadline
The official application deadline for research stays in 2027 is 30 September 2026.
Applicants should prepare their documents early because the research proposal is an important part of the application.
Important Funding Information
Although the fellowship provides a €1,300 monthly stipend, applicants should understand that it does not cover every possible expense.
The International Youth Library states that fellows must arrange their own health insurance, and travel expenses cannot be covered by the fellowship.
Therefore, applicants should plan their finances carefully before travelling to Munich.
Tips for a Strong Application
To prepare a stronger application:
- Create a clear research question rather than submitting a broad topic.
- Explain why Munich and the IYL are necessary for your research.
- Identify specific books or materials from the IYL collection that you intend to use.
- Keep your research proposal focused and within the required length.
- Clearly explain your previous academic or professional experience.
- Check all documents carefully before submission.
- Submit before the 30 September 2026 deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Munich International Youth Fellowship fully funded?
The fellowship provides a €1,300 monthly scholarship and several research-related benefits. However, the official IYL information states that travel expenses cannot be covered and fellows must arrange their own health insurance.
How long is the fellowship?
The research stay lasts from 6 weeks to a maximum of 3 months, with the exact funding period determined according to the project and work schedule.
Do I need a PhD to apply?
No. The official eligibility information includes graduates, doctoral candidates and PhD holders, as well as authors working on relevant publication projects.
Can international applicants apply?
Yes. The programme is specifically intended for researchers with non-German citizenship.
What language is required?
Applicants need sufficient proficiency in German and/or English.
Where does the fellowship take place?
The fellowship takes place at the International Youth Library in Munich, Germany, located at Blutenburg Castle.
Official Application Link
For the latest eligibility requirements, application instructions and official application process, applicants should use the International Youth Library’s official website:
Official International Youth Library Fellowship Programme:
Apply through the International Youth Library (Official Website)
Official application announcement:
International Youth Library Fellowship 2027 – Official Announcement
Final Thoughts
The Munich International Youth Fellowships 2027 provide a specialized research opportunity for international graduates, doctoral candidates, PhD holders, researchers and eligible authors interested in children’s and young adult literature.
Selected fellows receive €1,300 per month, access to an extensive international collection, a research workplace, specialist support and assistance with accommodation.
If your research project depends on international children’s and young adult literature, carefully review the official requirements and prepare your application before the 30 September 2026 deadline.
Deadline: 30 September 2026
Location: Munich, Germany
Stipend: €1,300 per month
Duration: 6 weeks to 3 months
Official Host: International Youth Library