Are you eager to pursue a postgraduate degree in one of Europe’s leading educational systems? The DAAD Scholarships for Master’s Studies in Germany offer international students the chance to study at top-ranked German universities with full financial support.
Administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship program is tailored for highly motivated individuals who aim to contribute meaningfully to their home countries through academic excellence and professional development.
DAAD Scholarships for Master’s Studies 2025–2026
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) has long supported academic exchange and international development. Its Master’s scholarship program provides fully funded study opportunities for international students, enabling them to undertake postgraduate studies in Germany’s public universities.
With an emphasis on development-relevant fields, the scholarship supports talented individuals with the potential to advance sustainable growth, innovation, and leadership in their countries. In addition to financial aid, recipients benefit from academic guidance, access to research networks, and cultural integration in Germany.
DAAD Scholarships 2025-2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Study Destination | German Public Universities |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree |
| Funded By | German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) |
| Eligible Applicants | International Students from All Countries |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Monthly Stipend, Travel, Insurance) |
| Program Duration | 1-2 Years (depending on program) |
| Application Deadline | August 30, 2025 |
| Academic Session | 2025-2027 |
What Is the DAAD Master’s Scholarship All About?
The DAAD Master’s Scholarships aim to equip graduates for key roles in their home countries’ development processes. Scholarships are awarded for full-time study at German universities in fields that are aligned with development goals, such as:
- Social Sciences
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental Studies
- Public Policy
- Economics
- Law
- Education
- Health Sciences
Each program must fall within the DAAD’s recognized list of eligible development-oriented Master’s courses.
The scholarship is structured to reduce the financial burden on students, giving them space to excel academically and professionally.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To be considered for the DAAD Master’s Scholarships 2025-2026, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Citizenship: Open to applicants from all countries (specific preference may be given to those from developing nations).
- Academic Qualification: A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field. Final-year students may also apply.
- Degree Age Limit: The bachelor’s degree must have been obtained within the last six years.
- GPA Requirement: A strong academic record is essential.
- Language Proficiency:
- English-taught programs: IELTS (min. 6.5), TOEFL iBT (min. 79)
- German-taught programs: DSH or TestDaF required
- Development Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate interest in contributing to the development of their home countries.
- University Admission: Admission to a relevant German master’s program (or intention to apply) is necessary.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the DAAD Master’s Scholarship receive comprehensive support during their study in Germany:
- Monthly Stipend: €934 to cover living costs
- Full Tuition Coverage: Where applicable
- Travel Allowance: Round-trip airfare between the home country and Germany
- One-Time Study Allowance: €460 for initial academic expenses
- Health, Accident & Personal Liability Insurance
- Monthly Rent Subsidy: To assist with accommodation costs
- Family Support: Additional allowances for accompanying family members, if applicable
- Language Training: Full reimbursement of German language course fees and test costs
- Access to DAAD Alumni Networks: Continued support post-graduation
Participating Institutions
The DAAD collaborates with a wide range of top German universities. Applicants must apply to an eligible Master’s program and may study at institutions such as:
- University of Heidelberg
- RWTH Aachen University
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Freiburg
- University of Göttingen
- Leipzig University
Programs must meet DAAD’s standards for development-related postgraduate education.
Required Documents
To apply for the DAAD Master’s Scholarship, the following materials must be submitted:
- Completed DAAD Application Form
- Certified Copies of Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (Max. 3 pages) in tabular format
- Motivation Letter (1-3 pages) explaining academic and career goals, as well as reasons for choosing Germany
- Letter of Admission (if already obtained from a German university)
- List of Preferred Master’s Programs
- Proof of Language Proficiency (English and/or German)
- Letter of Recommendation from a university professor (must be hand-signed)
- Copy of Passport
- Proof of Employment or Internships (if applicable)
- Certificates of Extracurricular Activities (if relevant)
- Certified Translations of any non-English/German documents
All documents should be combined in a single PDF file (as per DAAD requirements) and uploaded to the DAAD portal.
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Follow these instructions to complete your application:
Visit the Official DAAD Website
Go to www.daad.de/en to access the DAAD scholarship portal.
Create a Profile
Register and log in to the DAAD online application platform.
Confirm Eligibility
Read your country-specific eligibility guidelines and program requirements.
Choose Your Master’s Programs
Identify up to three eligible DAAD-supported master’s programs at German universities.
Prepare Your Reference Letter
Download the DAAD reference form. Your professor must hand-sign the letter (no digital signatures allowed).
Complete the Application Form
Fill in your academic and personal details accurately.
Upload Required Documents
Attach your academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, proof of language, and other relevant documents.
Submit the Application
Review your entries before submitting your complete application online by August 30, 2025.
Send the Original Reference by Post
Mail the signed reference letter to DAAD at the address provided on your country’s application guideline page.
Await Outcome
Applicants who pass the first stage will be contacted for further steps, which may include interviews.
Why Study in Germany with a DAAD Scholarship?
- No Tuition Fees: Most German universities are publicly funded, significantly reducing costs.
- High-Quality Education: Germany is known for its academic rigor, research excellence, and state-of-the-art facilities.
- Global Recognition: Degrees from German institutions are highly respected around the world.
- Cultural Diversity: International students benefit from cultural exchange and a globally engaged learning environment.
- Career Opportunities: A degree from Germany opens doors in international organizations, development sectors, and academia.
For full details and to apply, visit: https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=3&origin=190&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=1&q=&page=1&detail=50026200
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DAAD Scholarship 2025-2026 fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, monthly living expenses, health insurance, travel, and more.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Students from all countries with a relevant academic background and a strong motivation for development-oriented work.
Is German language proficiency required?
Not for English-taught programs. But for German-taught courses, proof of German language proficiency is mandatory.
Can I apply for multiple master’s programs?
Yes. You can select up to three DAAD-eligible Master’s programs.
Can I apply without a university admission letter?
Yes. You can apply before securing admission, but admission must be obtained before the scholarship is awarded.
What is the age limit for applicants?
There is no official age limit. However, your Bachelor’s degree must have been completed within the last six years.
What if I don’t have work experience?
While not mandatory, relevant professional or volunteer experience strengthens your application.
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