DAAD Scholarship 2026 for International Students, Germany (Fully Funded)

The DAAD Scholarship 2026 is awarded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for study at public universities and research institutions across Germany. It supports international students at Master's, PhD and Post Doctorate level, and the funding is fully funded, covering tuition and living costs.

It is open to non-German citizens who finished a Bachelor's or Master's degree within the last six years and want a full-time, on-campus program. The award covers a monthly stipend, travel, insurance and a German language course. Deadlines and application steps are on the official DAAD page, and the sections below explain them.

DAAD Scholarships are known for their comprehensive financial support.

Financial Benefits

• Monthly Stipend

1. €992 per month (Master’s students)
2. €1,300 per month (PhD students)

• Full Tuition Fee Coverage
• Travel Allowance (Airfare)
• Health, Accident & Liability Insurance

Study & Research Allowance

• Rent Subsidy (if applicable)
• Family Allowance (for dependents, where applicable)
• Free or Funded German Language Course

The DAAD Scholarship supports the following degree levels:

• Master’s Degree (MS / MA)
• Doctoral Degree (PhD)
• Research & Short-Term Study Programs
• Postgraduate & Development-Related Programs (EPOS)

DAAD scholarships are available for almost all academic disciplines, including but not limited to:

• Engineering & Technology
• Computer Science & IT
• Natural Sciences & Mathematics
• Environmental & Climate Studies
• Economics, Business & Management
• Public Policy, Governance & Law
• Social Sciences & Development Studies
• Health, Public Health & Medicine (selected programs)
• Arts, Design, Music & Performing Arts

The DAAD Scholarship is open to international students from all countries, including:

• Asia
• Africa
• Middle East
• Europe (non-German applicants)
• North & South America

Note: Some programs (such as EPOS) are specifically designed for applicants from developing and emerging countries.

To be eligible, applicants must generally meet the following requirements:

General Eligibility

• Must be a non-German citizen
• Must have completed:

1. A Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s)
2. A Master’s degree (for PhD)

• Last degree completed within the last 6 years
• Must apply for a full-time, on-campus program in Germany
• Strong academic background

Language Requirements

• English-taught programs: IELTS / TOEFL (as required)
• German-taught programs: TestDaF / DSH / Goethe Certificate

Work Experience (For EPOS Programs)

• Minimum 2 years of relevant professional experience

Not Eligible If:

• Applying for part-time or online programs
• Previously received DAAD funding for the same degree level
• Unable to meet academic or language requirements

Step 1: Find the Right DAAD Program

Visit the DAAD Scholarship Database and search by:

• Degree level
• Subject
• Country of origin

Step 2: Apply to a German University

Many DAAD programs require parallel applications:

• One to the German university
• One for DAAD funding

Step 3: Prepare Required Documents

Typical documents include:

• DAAD online application form
• Academic transcripts & certificates
• CV (Europass format recommended)
• Motivation letter / Statement of Purpose
• Language test results
• Letters of recommendation
• Research proposal (for PhD/research programs)
• Proof of work experience (for EPOS)

Step 4: Submit Application

Applications are submitted either:

• Through the DAAD portal, or
• Directly to the host university (program-specific)

Step 5: Selection & Results

• Shortlisting may include interviews
• Final results announced in early or mid-year
• Programs usually start in October 

Major DAAD Scholarship Programs

Some popular DAAD programs include:

• Study Scholarships – Master’s for All Disciplines
• Study Scholarships for STEM Fields
• EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses)
• Helmut Schmidt Programme (Public Policy & Governance)
• Research Grants – Doctoral Programs
• Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP)
• University Summer Courses in Germany

Why Choose the DAAD Scholarship?

• Study at top-ranked German universities
• No or minimal tuition fees
• Strong global alumni network
• High employability in Germany & internationally
• Opportunity to stay and work in Germany after graduation

Final Words

The DAAD Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for international students seeking fully funded education in Germany. With early preparation, strong motivation, and the right academic match, you can secure a place among Germany’s future global scholars.

Start now - because Germany rewards those who prepare early.