How to apply for a DAAD scholarship

• Every year, thousands of international students search for how to apply for a DAAD scholarship for Master’s, PhD, or even undergraduate study in Germany.
• These scholarships, offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), help fund your tuition, research, and living costs while studying at top German universities.
• They cover MA and PhD expenses like living costs, travel, and health insurance.  
• You need a strong academic record, proficient English or German skills, and real-world experience in the field.  

Germany is one of the top destinations for international students, known for its high-quality education, advanced research opportunities, and rich cultural experiences. Although universities in Germany are more affordable than in other western countries, sometimes you do need to find a scholarship to help with the finances.   

The DAAD Scholarships could be your solution! They can cover anything from tuition fees to living expenses. Let’s see what makes DAAD scholarships so great, how to apply, and why it might be the perfect opportunity for you. 

What are the DAAD Scholarships?  

German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers many scholarships to help international students study in Germany. Whether you want to apply for a DAAD scholarship for a Master’s degree, pursue a PhD with DAAD funding, or take part in a short-term exchange, the DAAD offers tailored options for every study level. Each year, the organisation offers well over 100,000 scholarships to international students and researchers from all over the world to study in Germany.  

If you’re interested in pursuing a Master’s degree, you can find thousands of Master's in Germany on our portal.

What does the DAAD Scholarship cover?  

The DAAD Scholarship offers comprehensive financial support, making it possible for students to focus entirely on their studies. The scholarship typically covers the following:  

• Monthly stipend for living expenses: the DAAD provides a monthly stipend of approximately €1000 (exact amount was €992 for Bachelor's and Master's students and €1300 for PhD students in 2025. PhD stipend likely to increase to 1400 starting 2026). This helps you pay for rent, food, and transportation.  
• Travel allowance: The scholarship includes an allowance that covers travel expenses to and from Germany. This helps ease the financial burden of relocation.  
• Health insurance: DAAD covers your health, accident, and personal liability insurance while a student in Germany.  
• Other benefits: Additional benefits such as family support, research funding, and language course funding may be available. 

Eligibility criteria for DAAD Scholarships  

While each DAAD Scholarship programme has specific eligibility requirements, some general criteria apply to most applicants. Here’s what you need to be eligible:  

• Nationality: DAAD Scholarships are open to international students from all over the world, excluding Germany. The purpose is to foster academic exchange and intercultural understanding.  
• Academic performance: Applicants need to have a strong academic record. Typically, you must have completed your previous degree with above-average marks.  
• Language proficiency. For English programmes, you will need to provide proof of proficiency in English, such as TOEFL or IELTS scores. For programmes taught in German you'll need to prove your German language skills. Do this through tests like TestDaF or Goethe-Zertifikat.  
• Work experience: Some DAAD scholarships, especially those targeting development-related postgraduate courses (EPOS), require applicants to have professional work experience in a relevant field.  
• Time since graduation. You must have graduated less than 6 years before the application.  

Application process for DAAD Scholarships  

The process of applying for a DAAD scholarship depends on whether you’re applying for a Master’s, PhD, or undergraduate-level programme. Here’s a general overview that applies to most levels::  

• Find your programme: Find a Master’s programme in Germany or a PhD on our portal or the DAAD database.
• Read the specific DAAD Scholarships call carefully for deadlines, documents, and where to apply (DAAD portal, the host, or both).  
• Prepare your documents: The required documents typically include academic transcripts, a CV, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a motivation letter. 
• Submit your application. They're usually submitted through the DAAD online portal. Be sure to meet all deadlines and submit all necessary documents to ensure that your application is complete.  
• If you get picked, they will invite you for an interview. The selection process is highly competitive, with academic performance, motivation, and potential for impact being key criteria.  

The DAAD is one great scholarship option, but you can find many more opportunities to study abroad through the scholarships listed on Mastersportal.com.   

Tips for a successful application  

Whether you’re applying for a DAAD scholarship for a Master’s, PhD, or undergraduate programme, success depends on how well you prepare your documents and explain your motivation.

• Start early: The application process can take time, so it’s crucial to start preparing your documents well in advance. Ensure all documents, such as your motivation letter and recommendations, are complete and reflect your strengths.  
• Write a strong motivation letter: Your motivation letter is one of the most critical parts of your application. Be sure to clearly articulate your academic and personal reasons for wanting to study in Germany. Highlight how the DAAD Scholarship will help you achieve your goals and how your studies will benefit your home country.  
• Get strong recommendations: Choose referees who know your academic or professional work well and can vouch for your qualifications. A well-written letter of recommendation can greatly strengthen your application. 
• Show impact on the long run: The DAAD values applicants who show how their education in Germany impacts their home country. Be sure to outline how your studies will contribute to development, innovation, or knowledge sharing.  

Conclusion  

DAAD Scholarships are a great way to get a quality education in one of Europe’s most exciting countries. The opportunity is there—you just need to take the leap and apply. Start today, and you could be on your way to Germany before you know it!   

If you're ready to take the first step, find DAAD Scholarships that match your ambitions and start your journey toward studying in Germany today.  

Additional Resources  

• Cheapest Universities in Germany  
• A Short Guide to Health Insurance in Germany  
• 8 Essential Steps for Students Preparing to Study a Master’s in Germany  
• 5 Top Questions About International Student Life in Germany  

Frequently Asked Questions  

1. Can you apply to multiple DAAD scholarships?  

Yes, applying for multiple DAAD Scholarship programmes is possible as long as you meet the eligibility criteria for each. POS lets you apply to up to three courses with one motivation letter, prioritising them. Rules differ for other programmes, and you cannot hold two DAAD scholarships at the same time.

2. Do I need to know German to apply for the DAAD Scholarship?  

Many Master’s and PhD options are in English. Always follow the language rules stated in the specific call. 

3. What happens after I submit my application?  

After you submit your DAAD application, a selection committee will review it. If they shortlist you, you must participate in an interview or some other assessment. Successful applicants will receive a formal scholarship offer.