Germany remains one of the most popular destinations for international students. Find out how to get a DAAD scholarship in Germany, what programs are available for undergraduates, postgraduates and researchers, who can apply, how to properly complete the documents and increase your chances of success

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Germany has been one of the most popular destinations for international students for many years, including citizens of Afghanistan, Madagascar and Burkina Faso. The high level of education, strong universities, modern research and cultural diversity make the country attractive for those who dream of academic development and a professional career in Europe.

But there is another reason why Germany attracts students from all over the world 00 the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) scholarship system. It is the world's largest organization supporting academic exchanges: every year more than 100,000 students, postgraduate students and researchers receive funding from the DAAD.

In this guide you will find complete information: what are the programs, who can apply, what the application process looks like, what documents are required and what will help increase your chances.

What is DAAD and what programs are there?

DAAD is the German Academic Exchange Service, which provides thousands of scholarships to students, postgraduate students, researchers and teachers every year.

The programs cover:

- full-time master's degree;

- research and postgraduate projects;

- short-term summer German language courses;

- internships at leading research centers.

Scholarships are available for both humanities and technical specialties.

Who can apply for a DAAD scholarship?

Main candidates:

- Students who have completed their bachelor's degree and want to enroll in a master's degree;

- Postgraduate students and young scientists;

- Teachers and researchers planning an academic exchange;

- Specialists from any country.

Important: applicants are expected to have high academic results, as well as a clear motivation for why studying in Germany is necessary for their development.

DAAD scholarship programs: what can applicants apply for?

Students

DAAD does not fund full undergraduate studies, but supports short-term opportunities in Germany: summer or winter courses, internships and research programs such as RISE Germany or the Gilman-DAAD Fellowships.

Graduates

The DAAD’s main focus is on master’s students. Programs cover all academic disciplines, STEM, architecture, art and public administration, as well as specialized courses for professionals from developing countries.

Doctoral/PhD students

Aimed at master’s graduates who plan to do their doctorate or part of their research in Germany. Includes grants for structured doctoral programs, Cotutelle joint programs and research projects.

Postdoctoral students

For experienced scientists who wish to conduct research in Germany. Programs include research grants, bilateral scholar exchanges and special programs such as ERA Green Hydrogen.

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Selection criteria for DAAD scholarships

Each program has its own specific requirements, but general criteria include:

- Academic qualifications: an appropriate previous degree for the chosen level of study (bachelor for master's degree, master for doctoral degree, doctor for postdoctoral degree).

- Achievement: high academic results, usually above average.

- Citizenship: depends on the program.

- Time since last diploma: some programs limit the number of years since the completion of previous education.

- Language proficiency: English or German, depending on the program.

- Previous stay in Germany: usually no more than 15 months.

What does the DAAD scholarship cover?

The DAAD scholarship provides:

- Monthly stipend (992 euros for master's students, 1300 euros for doctoral and postdoctoral students).

- Health, accident and personal liability insurance.

- Travel allowance (depending on the destination).

Additional benefits may include:

- Rental subsidy (in certain cases).

- Monthly allowance for accompanying family members (in certain cases).

- Subsidy for additional expenses incurred in the event of disability or chronic illness.

- Additional stipend for eco-friendly travel (if you travel by train, bus, etc.).

Important! Short-term stays such as summer courses include a lump sum payment (1192 euros or 1367 euros, depending on citizenship).

How to apply for a DAAD scholarship correctly: step-by-step instructions

Step 1 – Choose a program

Go to the official DAAD website and find a program that matches your specialty and level of training.

Step 2 – Prepare documents

- Resume (CV) in European format;

- Motivation letter;

- Recommendations from teachers or scientists;

- Diploma and transcript of grades;

- Language certificate (German or English, depending on the program).

Step 3 – Complete the online application

All documents are uploaded via the DAAD portal.

Pay attention to the deadlines: submission usually takes place in the fall for the start of studies in the following year.

Step 4 – Pass the selection

Candidates undergo an academic assessment. The quality of the motivation letter plays an important role - you need to clearly show why you and why Germany.

Step 5 – Get the result

If successful, you will receive an official invitation and can start preparing for your studies.

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Additional tips to increase your chances of receiving a DAAD scholarship

1. Start preparing your documents in advance – preferably 6-8 months in advance.

2. Pay special attention to the motivation letter: it should be personalized, not templated.

3. If you are planning a research project, find a scientific supervisor in Germany in advance.

4. Add information about volunteer experience, internships or projects that show your activity to the application.

Other scholarships in Germany

In addition to DAAD, you can also find many other scholarships in Germany.

Notable scholarships include the Expatriate Scholarship, which offers a top prize of €15,000 to the first place winner, and the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships, which provide monthly stipends to master's and doctoral students of all nationalities.

In addition, there are programs such as the Deutschlandstipendium and numerous other university scholarships.

A DAAD scholarship in Germany is not only financial support, but also a powerful start to an international academic career. It opens the door to world-class universities, new research and global opportunities. If you dream of studying in Europe, this program is one of the best ways to make your dream a reality.

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Reminder! In 2025, Germany continues to be a popular destination for international students due to the high level of education, affordability of studies and numerous opportunities for career development after graduation. We have already told you how to apply for a student visa, which universities are the best for international students, and many other useful information about education.

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Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in Germany;

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