FELLOWSHIPS ABROAD
TRANSATLANTIC RENEWABLE ENERGY FELLOWSHIP
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the monthly stipend?
A: Fellows will receive EUR 1,100 monthly (for 3 months) as well as an international travel allowance up to EUR 500, a travel allowance in Germany up to EUR 200, insurance, and all seminar-related costs.
Q: In addition to the internship and seminar attendance, what is required of the Fellows?
A: Fellows will be responsible for the following:
- Individual project work
- Final report
- Program Fee
- Initiative and ambassadorial skills
Q: Who is responsible for this program?
A: The German Federal Office has designated InWEnt gGmbH to administer the program. CDS International is the U.S. partner for marketing and recruiting as well as alumni relations.
Q: Will I have an opportunity to travel while interning abroad?
A: CDS International encourages you to explore as much as possible during your time abroad, however please keep in mind that you are an employee at a company. Therefore, you are expected to maintain a consistent presence at your internship, as discussed with your employer.
Q: Will I receive school credit for my internship?
A: Credit is given at the discretion of each respective college or university. Be sure to speak with a coordinator at your school before beginning the internship to arrange proper credit. CDS is able to provide a letter certifying participation in the program should the university request it. Contact your program officer for assistance.
Q: How will financial aid and student loans be handled while participating in the program?
A: Most organizations will not continue to provide financial aid as they require the student to be actively enrolled at an academic institution. For graduates with student loans, CDS can assist in obtaining a loan deferral due to financial hardship. We will provide a letter confirming participation in the fellowship and detailing the financial aspects of the program. While CDS is not authorized to grant these deferrals itself, participants in other CDS-administered fellowships have been very successful in the past in obtaining a deferral on the basis of financial hardship. Following acceptance to the program, CDS can complete an Education Related Deferment Request Form. A forbearance, in which only the interest on loans is paid during the fellowship, is by far the easiest solution.
Q: How do I apply to the program?
A: Request an application packet through the CDS website. After submitting an application, CDS will pre-select all qualified candidates. Those chosen will then be contacted by a CDS representative to schedule a phone interview. During this phone interview, we will make an assessment of your abilities and goals and will answer any questions you may have. After completion of all interviews, you will be formally notified about acceptance into the program.
Q: Do I need to speak German?
A: The fellowship does not require German skills, but some knowledge of the language would allow for better integration in the workplace and social settings.
Q: Where will I live during the program?
A: It is up to you to secure your own living arrangement. This is an integral portion of the program and is an exciting jump into a new culture. Popular housing options in Germany include large apartments shared by a number of roommates. Several websites offer housing opportunities and shared leases. CDS International and InWEnt will offer some assistance.
Q: What is the Transatlantic Climate Bridge?
A: Transatlantic Climate Bridge is an initiative launched in September 2008 by Germany’s Foreign Minister Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Environment Minister Sigmar Gabriel. It is designed to build partnerships between the US and Germany and connect key stakeholders such as business, policymakers, and academics so that the common challenge of climate change and energy security can be tackled together.
