Leipzig University DAAD-SEPT MBA Scholarship 2026, Germany

The Leipzig University DAAD-SEPT MBA Scholarship is a highly competitive, development-focused MBA opportunity in Germany designed for professionals aiming to strengthen small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), entrepreneurship ecosystems, and innovation-driven economic development. The programme is hosted by Leipzig University and is supported through the DAAD EPOS scholarship scheme for eligible international applicants.

This MBA is especially suited for mid-career professionals working in entrepreneurship, SME development, business consulting, innovation management, and economic policy roles.

Scholarship Summary

• Host Country: Germany
• University: Leipzig University
• Programme: SEPT MBA (Small Enterprise Promotion and Training MBA)
• Scholarship Type: DAAD EPOS-funded MBA scholarship
• Degree Level: Master’s (MBA)
• Study Area: Entrepreneurship, SME development, innovation, economic policy
• Funding Coverage: Partial to full (for selected DAAD EPOS scholars)
• Tuition Fee (self-funded): Approx. EUR 6,000 total
• Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
• Language of Instruction: English
• Eligible Applicants: International professionals from developing countries
• Focus: SME growth, entrepreneurship promotion, economic development 

For DAAD EPOS-funded applicants, benefits may include:

• Full or partial tuition fee coverage
• Monthly living stipend in Germany
• Health insurance coverage
• Travel allowance to and from Germany
• Possible family or housing support (in some cases)
• Access to practical entrepreneurship and SME training
• International academic and professional exposure

• Master’s (MBA programme)
• Mid-career professional degree (not intended for fresh graduates)

The programme focuses on:

• Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) development
• Entrepreneurship and startup ecosystems
• Innovation management
• Economic development policy
• Business consulting and SME strategy
• Entrepreneurial finance and development economics

Applicants must generally:

• Hold a recognized bachelor’s degree
• Have relevant professional work experience
• Work in areas such as entrepreneurship, SME development, business consulting, or economic policy
• Demonstrate strong motivation for development-oriented work
• Meet English language requirements (programme is fully English-taught)
• Show potential for contributing to economic development in their home country

DAAD EPOS applicants are typically evaluated based on:

• Academic performance
• Professional experience
• Leadership potential
• Development impact goals

To apply for the SEPT MBA scholarship:

1. Prepare academic documents (transcripts and degree certificates)
2. Update CV highlighting professional experience
3. Write a strong motivation letter focused on SME/entrepreneurship development
4. Provide proof of English proficiency
5. Submit recommendation letters
6. Apply through Leipzig University’s SEPT MBA application system
7. If applying for DAAD EPOS funding, submit additional scholarship documents
8. Attend selection process if shortlisted

Why This MBA is Unique

• Focuses on SME and entrepreneurship development rather than corporate management
• Based on Germany’s successful “Mittelstand” business model
• Strong practical orientation with real-world case studies
• Ideal for professionals working in economic development and innovation policy
• Highly international student cohort from developing countries