The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) Scholarships are prestigious funding opportunities provided by the German government to support international students, researchers, and academics who wish to study or conduct research in Germany. These scholarships are offered at various academic levels, including master’s, doctoral (PhD), and postdoctoral studies.
Scholarship Details
The Coverage & Benefits includes the following;
- Monthly stipend (varies based on academic level):
- Master’s: €934 per month
- PhD: €1,200 per month
- Full or partial tuition fee coverage (most public universities in Germany have low or no tuition fees).
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
- Travel allowance (covers international airfare).
- Research and study grants (for thesis/dissertation).
- Family allowance (in some cases).
Application Deadlines
- Varies by program, but generally between August and December each year for courses starting the following year.
Benefits of DAAD Scholarships
- Fully funded or partially funded scholarships are available.
- Access to Germany’s top universities with world-class education.
- Opportunities for networking, research collaboration, and career advancement.
- Experience Germany’s diverse culture and high quality of life.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree (for master’s programs) or a master’s degree (for PhD programs).
- Academic excellence and relevant work experience (for some programs).
- Proof of English or German proficiency (depending on the program’s language of instruction).
- Some programs require professional experience of at least two years.
Fields of Study
DAAD offers scholarships for almost all disciplines, including:
- Engineering
- Natural sciences
- Social sciences
- Humanities
- Law
- Business administration
- Public policy
- Development studies
Selection Criteria
- Academic merit
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
- Professional experience and motivation
- Language proficiency
Types of DAAD Scholarships
- DAAD EPOS Scholarships – For master’s programs in development-related fields.
- DAAD Research Grants – For PhD and postdoctoral research.
- DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Program – For public policy and governance.
- DAAD Study Scholarships – For master’s studies in various fields.
Application Process
- Choose an eligible degree program from a German university.
- Prepare application documents (academic transcripts, CV, statement of purpose, research proposal for PhD, letters of recommendation).
- Apply online via the DAAD portal or directly through the selected university (https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/daad-scholarships/)
- Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview.