DAAD Scholarship: Complete Guide for 2026-2027
If you want to study in Germany with strong financial support and professional development, the DAAD scholarship is one of the best options available. The program funds development-oriented postgraduate study, supports research, and connects recipients to global academic networks. This guide explains what the scholarship covers, who can apply, how to submit a competitive application.
The paragraphs below are practical, step-by-step, and written so you can act immediately — whether you are preparing documents, checking eligibility, or ready to apply now.
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Description
The DAAD scholarship funds international students and researchers for study, research, and doctoral work at German universities or linked institutions. It focuses on capacity building and development-related impact for applicants from developing or newly industrialized countries, but DAAD runs multiple programs with varying target groups and aims.
Degree Level
Master’s (postgraduate)
PhD / Doctoral research
Other postgraduate certificates depending on the specific DAAD programme.
Available Subjects
Economic sciences, Law, Agricultural and forest sciences, Art, Design, Engineering, Natural sciences, Humanities, Social sciences, Language and cultural studies, Mathematics, Medicine, Health sciences, Computer science, Environmental studies
Benefits
Monthly stipend: approximately €992 for Master’s students, €1,300–€1,400 for doctoral candidates depending on the program.
Travel allowance where applicable.
Health, accident, and liability insurance contributions.
One-time study allowance for materials and start-up costs.
Possible support for language courses, accommodation subsidies, and family allowances in select cases.
Eligible Nationalities
DAAD has specific programmes that target candidates from developing and newly industrialized countries; other DAAD opportunities are global. Check the specific scholarship profile in the DAAD database to confirm eligible countries for each call.
Eligibility Criteria
A relevant bachelor’s or master’s degree depending on level of study.
At least two years professional experience is commonly required for development-oriented postgraduate programs.
Language proficiency: English or German depending on the course; recognized tests (IELTS, TOEFL, DSH, TestDaF) are usually required.
Demonstrated development-related motivation and intent to apply learning in the home country or region.
Application Procedure — step by step
Choose programs: pick up to three DAAD-listed postgraduate courses that match your goals.
Apply to host university: submit documents directly to the German university running the program.
Selection for DAAD nomination: suitable applicants are proposed to DAAD by the host. If nominated, DAAD will invite you to upload the complete application into the DAAD Portal (meindaad.de).
Upload required PDFs to the DAAD Scholarship Portal: signed form, CV, motivation letter, employer reference, transcripts, language certificates, proof of work experience, and any additional documents listed in the course description.
Wait for final selection: DAAD informs selected scholarship holders and provides next steps for contracting and arrival.
Tip: Prepare certified translations and scanned copies of every document in advance — DAAD will request PDFs if you are shortlisted.
Important Dates
Deadlines change per program and per year. There are consolidated deadline lists and program-specific dates in the DAAD database and PDF deadline lists. Always check the DAAD site for the current call-for-applications and specific deadline for the program you selected.
Final Thoughts
The DAAD scholarship is a robust, well-established route for motivated international students and researchers who want to study or research in Germany with financial and institutional support. Start early, read the exact program profile, prepare certified documents, gain relevant work experience where required, and make sure your application materials clearly explain how your study will create measurable impact. Use the DAAD Portal only when invited, follow instructions precisely, and check official DAAD pages regularly for deadline updates.
FAQs
Q: Who can apply to the DAAD scholarship?
A: Applicants depend on the specific DAAD program; many development-oriented courses target candidates from developing or newly industrialized countries with relevant degrees and work experience.
Q: What is covered by the DAAD scholarship?
A: Monthly stipend (approx €992 for Master’s, €1,300–€1,400 for PhD), travel allowance, insurance contributions, and one-time study allowances. Additional benefits vary by program.
Q: Can I apply to more than one course?
A: Yes — you may apply to up to three programs; list them by priority in your DAAD application and do not change the order later.
Q: Where do I find official deadlines?
A: Check the DAAD scholarship database and program pages; DAAD also publishes consolidated deadline PDFs for specific program groups.
