Changemaker Scholarship
in cooperation with The Social Hub Talent Foundation
Application deadline: 21 June 2026
The Changemaker Scholarship is a joint initiative between The Social Hub Talent Foundation and mdw – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna.
It supports talented Master’s students who aim to create positive social impact while pursuing their exchange studies in Vienna.
Beyond free accommodation, the scholarship places a strong focus on personal development, social impact, and becoming part of an international Changemaker community.
- Who Can Apply
- What the Scholarship Offers
- Personal Development & Scholar Journey
- Application process
- Selection process
- After Completion
Who Can Apply
You may be eligible if you:
- Are unconditionally admitted to a Master’s programme at mdw
- Stay in Vienna for at least 9 months
- Have sufficient English proficiency
- Identify as a Changemaker – someone motivated to contribute positively to society with a clear vision or aspiration
In addition, applicants should come from one or more of the following backgrounds:
- Limited access to financial, educational, social, or health resources
- Refugee or newcomer background
- First-generation university student
- Member of the LGBTQI+ community facing personal safety concerns due to their identity
What the Scholarship Offers
Selected Changemaker Scholars receive free accommodation for the full scholarship period (September - June) at The Social Hub in Vienna.
The scholarship includes:
- A private room with en-suite bathroom
- Study desk, TV, high-speed Wi-Fi
- Linen, towels, regular cleaning
- Access to a fully equipped shared kitchen
- On-site laundry facilities
- Coworking spaces and gym access
- Free bike sharing
- Access to a wide skills & wellbeing programme
- Participation in 5 dedicated upskilling sessions (e.g. self-awareness, storytelling, wellbeing)
Personal Development & Scholar Journey
Changemaker Scholars take part in a structured development journey alongside their studies.
Aspire Series
- 10 workshops focused on leadership, personal growth, and social impact
- Scholars choose 4 workshops based on their interests
Mentorship
- 4-month mentorship programme
- 6–8 meetings with a mentor from The Social Hub community
Scholar Circles
- Peer-to-peer learning in cooperation with The School for Moral Ambition
- Focus on reflection, moral clarity, and changemaker identity
Community Engagement
- Community events, gatherings, and graduation ceremony
- Access to the international Changemaker community
Overall commitment: approx. 30 hours over the academic year
Application process
- Eligible students will be informed in their official admission letter that they qualify to apply for the Changemaker Scholarship.
- Applications (CV & letter of motivation/reasoning, both max. 2 pages) are submitted via the student’s Mobility Online account (created at the start of the exchange application process).
- Application deadline: 21 June 2026
Selection process
- 3 candidates are selected by mdw and proposed to The Social Hub Talent Foundation.
- A final interview may be conducted by the Foundation if required.
After Completion
Upon successful completion of the programme, scholars become part of the TSH Changemaker Network, gaining access to an international alumni and professional community.