If you are seeking to study in Germany on a fully funded scholarship, the DAAD Scholarship 2025-26 presents an excellent opportunity. This prestigious scholarship allows international students to pursue master’s or Ph.D. degrees at top German universities. In this article, we will discuss the scholarship’s benefits and provide a step-by-step guide on how to apply.
What is the DAAD Scholarship?
The DAAD Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for students from developing and industrialized nations to study in Germany. It offers financial support for pursuing a master’s or Ph.D. in various fields of study at renowned universities across Germany.
DAAD scholarships are geared toward students who are committed to contributing to the sustainable development of their home countries. Graduates who receive this scholarship are expected to return home and contribute to their country’s economic, social, and educational development.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Master’s / Doctoral (Ph.D.)
- Host Country: Germany
- Institutions: Various state and state-recognized German universities
- Fields of Study: A wide range, including but not limited to:
- Economics, Law, Agriculture, Forest Sciences
- Art and Design, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences
- Mathematics, Natural Sciences, Medicine, and Health Sciences
- Duration: 12-36 months, depending on the program
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded, as detailed below
DAAD Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD Scholarship offers numerous benefits to recipients, ensuring they can focus on their studies without worrying about financial constraints. These benefits include:
- Monthly Stipend:
- 934 euros for master’s students
- 1,300 euros for Ph.D. candidates
- Travel Allowance: Covers travel costs unless already provided by another funding source.
- Insurance Coverage: Accident, health and personal liability insurance.
- Study Allowance: One-time study materials allowance.
- Additional Benefits (under certain conditions):
- Rent subsidies
- Family allowances for accompanying members
Who Can Apply for the DAAD Scholarship?
To be eligible for the DAAD Scholarship 2025-26, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
- Language Proficiency:
- English proficiency is required for international programs taught in English (TOEFL or IELTS).
- For German-taught programs, proficiency in the German language is required (DSH or TestDaF certification).
- Eligible Countries: Students from developing and newly industrialized countries are encouraged to apply. For a complete list of eligible countries, click here.
- Educational Requirements:
- Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year course) or a Master’s degree in a relevant field.
- A minimum of two years of professional work experience is required.
- Commitment to Development: Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to contributing to their country’s social, economic, or educational development after completing their studies.
Required Documents
To successfully apply for the DAAD Scholarship, the following documents are necessary:
- Signed DAAD Application Form: Submit a completed DAAD application form with the current date.
- CV (Curriculum Vitae): A personally signed CV using the Europass format, dated.
- Motivation Letter: A signed letter outlining why you wish to study in Germany, your study goals, and your development-related motivation. (Maximum 2 pages)
- Letters of Recommendation: A recommendation letter from your current employer, signed, dated, and stamped.
- Proof of Employment: Documents verifying at least two years of professional work experience after completing a bachelor’s degree.
- Language Certificates: Either TOEFL/IELTS for English programs or DSH/TestDaF for German programs.
- Academic Degrees: Copies of certificates and transcripts (certified translations if necessary).
For candidates applying from China, an APS certificate must be submitted alongside other documents.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure for DAAD Scholarship
To successfully apply for the DAAD Scholarship, follow this step-by-step process:
Step 1: Research and Select Programs
- Select Your Courses: Applicants can apply to up to three courses. Be sure to choose courses that align with your academic and career goals.
- Check Program Deadlines: Each program has specific deadlines, so carefully review the deadlines for the courses you are interested in.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application Materials
- Complete the DAAD Application Form: Ensure all sections are filled out correctly and signed.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents (as outlined in the “Required Documents” section) including motivation letters, CV, and letters of recommendation.
- Tailor Your Application: If applying for multiple courses, you must prioritize your selections and tailor your motivation letter accordingly.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Send Your Application: Submit your complete application directly to the university or universities offering your chosen courses.
- University Review: The respective universities will review your application, and a selection committee will suggest potential candidates for the DAAD scholarship.
Step 4: Upload Your Documents to the DAAD Portal
- DAAD Contact: Once you are recommended for a scholarship, DAAD will contact you and provide access to the DAAD Portal.
- Upload Documents: Upload all required documents to the DAAD Portal for final evaluation.
Step 5: Final Selection and Notification
- Final Review: DAAD’s selection committee will conduct a final review of your application.
- Notification: Successful candidates will receive a notification of acceptance and will be provided with further instructions.
Tips for a Strong DAAD Scholarship Application
- Demonstrate Development-Related Motivation: Make sure to clearly explain how your studies in Germany will contribute to the sustainable development of your home country.
- Submit All Required Documents: Incomplete applications will not be considered, so ensure you have all necessary documents in hand before applying.
- Apply Early: Avoid missing deadlines by starting your application process early.
