If you're interested in studying in Germany on a scholarship, this is a fantastic opportunity. In this article, we'll explain the DAAD scholarship in detail, its benefits, and the application process step by step.
The DAAD Scholarship 2026-2027 is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is available for Master's or PhD studies at top German universities. DAAD scholarships cover monthly payments of €992 for graduates or €1400 for PhD students.
Qualified experts, with partnerships with international organizations, play a vital role in the sustainable development of their countries. They are the best guarantee for a better future, reducing poverty and providing better education and healthcare for all. Through its development-oriented graduate programs, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) promotes the training of specialists from developed and emerging industrial countries.
Training lists
The scholarships offer foreign graduates from developed and newly industrialized countries in all disciplines the opportunity to obtain a postgraduate or master's degree at a German state-run or state-recognized university, and in exceptional cases a doctorate, and to obtain a university qualification (Master's/PhD) in Germany.
DAAD Scholarship Summary 2026
- Level of study : PhD / Master's
- Institution: DAAD
- Study in: Germany
- Courses offered:
- Economics and Law
- Agricultural and Forestry Sciences
- Art and Design
- Engineering and Natural Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Linguistic and cultural studies
- Mathematics and Natural Sciences
- Medicine and Health Sciences
- Financial aid for scholarships
- Program duration: Between 12 and 36 months, depending on the length of the chosen study program.
- DAAD scholarship application deadline: Depending on the chosen study program, please check the deadlines here.
DAAD scholarship coverage
The DAAD 2026 scholarship for Master's and PhD degrees in Germany offers the recipient the following benefits:
- Depending on the academic level, monthly payments of €992 are made to graduates or €1400 to PhD candidates.
- Travel allowance, unless such expenses are covered by the home country or other funding source
- Payments to cover health insurance, accidents, and personal liability.
- Instead of a one-time study.
Under certain conditions, scholarship holders may receive the following additional benefits:
Monthly rent support
- Monthly allowance for accompanying family members
Eligibility criteria for the DAAD scholarship 2026
In order for applicants to be eligible for the DAAD 2026 scholarship for Master's and PhD studies in Germany, they must meet the following criteria:
- Languages required: English or German.
- For international programs, the language of instruction is English. You are usually required to provide proof of English language proficiency, such as TOEFL or IELTS.
- For other programs, the language of instruction is German. You are usually required to provide a German language certificate, such as DSH or TestDaF.
- Eligible countries: Click here for a list of eligible developing countries.
- Candidates must have a bachelor's degree (usually a four-year course) or a master's degree in a relevant subject.
- Candidates must have at least two years of professional experience.
- Candidates can demonstrate that their motivations are development-related and that they are expected to take social responsibility, initiate and support change processes in their personal and professional environment after their training/scholarship.
How to apply for the DAAD scholarship 2026?
To apply for a DAAD scholarship for Master's and PhD studies in Germany, please follow the following step-by-step application procedure:
Is it possible to apply for more than one course of study within the DAAD scholarship?
You can apply for up to three courses. If you are applying for more than one course, please list the courses in order of priority on the DAAD application forms (see 7. Choosing a host university/institution in Germany), and do not change the priorities on the application form!
Documents required for the DAAD scholarship 2026
- Sign the DAAD application form on the current date
- A personally signed CV (please use the Europass form at http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/) with the current date
- A personally signed motivation letter (related to your current job and choice of graduate program, maximum two pages) with the current date.
Important: When applying to more than one graduate program (up to a maximum of three programs), you must submit one motivation letter explaining why you are applying to and choosing these specific programs. - A letter of recommendation from your current employer; the letter must have a letterhead, signature, and official seal and must be dated (not in a sealed envelope).
- Employment certificate(s) from the employer(s) proving that there are at least two years of relevant work experience (post-Bachelor's degree) at the time of application, and, if possible, a guarantee of re-employment from the current employer upon return home.
- Proof of language skills:
- English language - IELTS or TOEFL (Note: Institutional TOEFL tests are not accepted)
- German – required for courses taught in German
- German language course
- Copies of academic transcripts (certified translation if necessary)
- Copies of academic records, including grading scale (certified translation if necessary)
- Applicants from the People’s Republic of China are required to submit an APS certificate with their application documents.
Note: Some courses may require additional documentation. For more information, please refer to the course description in the brochure and on the course website. Applications must be submitted in English or German to be considered.
Application and selection steps for the DAAD scholarship
- Choose the courses that best suit your interests. (You can apply for a maximum of three courses.)
- Apply to universities that offer these courses.
- Send your complete application (with the documents mentioned above) directly to the universities.
- The selection committee proposes potential candidates for a DAAD scholarship.
- The DAAD will contact the proposed candidates to upload their complete application to the DAAD portal. (The DAAD will provide the DAAD portal link via email).
- The selection process will be completed and the proposed candidates will be notified accordingly.
Important note:
Make sure you have a copy of each document from your application ready, as these documents (as PDF files) must be uploaded to the DAAD portal if you are selected for a DAAD scholarship!
Website
To learn more about the DAAD scholarship for Master's and PhD studies in Germany, please visit the official website:
Why study in Germany?
Why is Germany a great study destination? Located in the heart of Europe and free of tuition fees, discover why Germany is the perfect place to get your university degree abroad.
1. Quality institutions
Germany is the most popular study destination for non-English speakers worldwide and boasts some of the top-ranked universities in Western Europe. In 2020, the Times Higher Education World University Rankings placed Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich at 29th globally, Heidelberg University at 37th, and Humboldt University of Berlin at 49th, while several other institutions ranked within the top 100.
The German government is renowned for its high-quality education and state-of-the-art facilities, and it places great importance on higher education. The German state funds research projects annually, enabling students to carry out their projects and conduct cutting-edge research.
Graduate programs
2. There are no tuition fees.
Perhaps you've dreamed of studying in Europe, but are worried about how to finance your studies. Germany might be the perfect place for you! University studies in Germany are free. Yes, you read that right! Even as an international student, you don't have to pay any tuition fees; registration in Germany is free.
In fact, at the end of your undergraduate studies at a German university, you can also choose to pursue postgraduate studies for free. Without tuition fees, you can save money on accommodation, study materials, socializing, and exploring the surrounding area.
3. Job opportunities
After graduation, international students can stay in Germany for up to 18 months to look for work, a longer period compared to many other European countries, such as the UK, where they can only stay for three months after graduation. In 2020, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) reported that around 50% of international students remained in the country after graduation, reflecting a strong desire to stay and work.
Online Master's Programs
Universities also enjoy excellent relationships with companies, giving them an advantage in seeking internship or employment opportunities. According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings in terms of employability,
4. Quality of life
There's no doubt that student life in Germany is fascinating. Most major German cities, such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg, are hubs for culture, arts, and music. There's plenty to see and do, whatever your interests; it's the perfect place to be a passionate international student.
Whether you're interested in sports, politics, history, or art, you'll find something to enjoy in a dedicated marketplace and a community that shares your interests. Thanks to its strong economy and robust infrastructure, the city boasts reliable, safe, and efficient public transportation, making getting around easy. During the day, you can explore stunning architecture, castles, and medieval gardens, and at night, enjoy the vibrant city life.
Searching for university courses
5. The international environment
Germany is a fertile ground for students and international multiculturalism. With its numerous English-language universities and free tuition, it naturally attracts international students from all over the world. Last year, over 300,000 international students studied there, and this number is expected to grow even further. Its central location in Western Europe also provides easy access to other countries in the region, allowing you to discover new cultures and visit tourist attractions.
What are you waiting for? Start your study journey in Germany today!