The DAAD Scholarship 2026/2027 is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarship programs available for international students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany. Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), this scholarship supports talented students from developing and emerging countries to study at top German universities.
Germany is globally recognized for its high-quality education system, tuition-free universities, advanced research facilities, and strong connection between academic learning and industry experience. Through the DAAD Scholarship, international students can study in Germany without worrying about tuition or living expenses.
The program aims to train future professionals and leaders who will contribute to sustainable development, innovation, and economic growth in their home countries.
Overview of DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD Scholarship supports master’s and PhD studies at accredited German universities across multiple academic fields. The scholarship particularly focuses on development-related postgraduate courses that prepare students for leadership roles in science, technology, economics, governance, and social development.
Thousands of international students benefit from DAAD funding each year, making it one of the largest scholarship organizations worldwide.
Scholarship Benefits
The DAAD Scholarship is fully funded and provides comprehensive financial support including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend of €934 for master’s students
- Monthly stipend of €1,300 for PhD students
- Round-trip international airfare
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Accommodation allowance
- Study and research allowance
- Family allowance where applicable
- German language course before studies begin
These benefits allow students to focus completely on academic and research excellence.
Degree Levels Available
The DAAD Scholarship supports:
- Master’s Degree Programs
- PhD Programs
- Postgraduate Development Courses
Most programs last between 12 and 36 months depending on field of study.
Fields of Study
Eligible study areas commonly include:
- Engineering and Technology
- Environmental Sciences
- Public Policy and Governance
- Economics and Development Studies
- Agriculture and Forestry
- Renewable Energy
- Urban Planning
- Public Health
- Social Sciences
- Education Management
Programs connected to sustainable development goals are strongly encouraged.
Study Location
Scholarship recipients study at recognized public universities across Germany such as:
- Technical University of Munich
- Heidelberg University
- University of Bonn
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Freiburg
- RWTH Aachen University
University placement depends on selected course admission.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for DAAD Scholarship 2026/2027, applicants must:
- Be international students from eligible countries
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (usually not older than six years)
- Have strong academic performance
- Possess relevant professional experience (minimum two years for many programs)
- Demonstrate motivation for development contribution
- Meet language requirements
Applicants already living in Germany for long periods may not be eligible.
Academic Requirements
Master’s Applicants
- Completed undergraduate degree
- Academic background related to chosen course
- Above-average academic results
PhD Applicants
- Master’s degree qualification
- Strong research proposal
- Academic supervisor approval where required
Professional experience significantly strengthens applications.
Language Requirements
Programs may be taught in English or German.
Accepted language certificates include:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- TestDaF (for German-taught programs)
- DSH German Language Test
Typical requirements:
- IELTS 6.5 or higher
- TOEFL 80–90 minimum
DAAD may provide German language training before academic studies begin.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare:
- DAAD application form
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (Europass format recommended)
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of work experience
- Letters of recommendation
- English or German language certificate
- Passport copy
- Research proposal (PhD applicants)
All documents must be complete and properly formatted.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Choose Eligible Course
Visit the DAAD scholarship database and select a development-related postgraduate prog
