Apply for DAAD Scholarship 2026
Are you an ambitious graduate from a developing or newly industrialized country with dreams of studying in Germany? The DAAD Scholarship 2026 offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue your postgraduate or doctoral degree in one of the most advanced education systems in the world — fully funded. This blog will guide you through everything you need to know, from eligibility and benefits to the application process, while keeping it conversational and easy to follow.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Scholarship Category: Masters Scholarships | PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full Scholarship + Monthly Allowance + 1,300 euros, etc…
- Application Deadline: Varies for different Courses
2026 DAAD Scholarship for International Students
Why the DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) isn’t just about financial support. It’s about building a better world by empowering professionals who are driven to make a difference in their home countries. With the goal of sustainable development at its core, DAAD prioritizes candidates who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a deep commitment to social responsibility.
Let’s dive into what makes this scholarship so valuable — and how you can become one of the lucky recipients.
Who Can Apply?
The DAAD Scholarship 2026 targets graduates from developing and newly industrialized countries who:
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (typically a four-year program)
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience
- Are working in public or private sector roles that align with development policies
- Have not been living in Germany for more than 15 months at the application deadline
- Hold academic degrees no older than six years
What Can Be Funded?
The DAAD Scholarship only supports postgraduate and doctoral study programs in Germany that are development-oriented. You can choose from a curated list of eligible postgraduate courses, each carefully selected to contribute to your country’s development goals.
- Funding duration: 12 to 42 months, depending on the degree program.
Scholarship Benefits at a Glance
Here’s what makes this scholarship truly fully funded:
- Monthly stipend: €992 for Master’s students, €1,300 for PhD candidates
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance (unless already covered by another source)
- Optional perks:
- Rent subsidy
- Family allowance if accompanied by spouse/children
Language Requirements
Depending on the language of instruction:
- For German-taught courses:
- Proof of minimum B1 German at the time of application
- Pre-study 6-month intensive language course included
- Must pass DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 before enrollment
- For English-taught courses:
- Proof via IELTS or TOEFL (institutional TOEFL not accepted)
Application Process – Step by Step
Here’s how to apply:
- Choose up to 3 courses from the DAAD list — rank them in order of preference.
- Apply directly to the postgraduate course(s) via their respective websites.
- If shortlisted, DAAD will contact you to upload documents to the DAAD portal.
- Final selection follows.
Important Note: Do not send your application directly to DAAD. Applications must go to the university program.
What Documents Will You Need?
- Completed EPOS application form
- Motivation letter (one for all programs, with tailored reasons for each)
- Curriculum Vitae (Europass format preferred)
- Letter of recommendation from your current employer
- Certificates of employment proving 2+ years’ experience
- Proof of language proficiency
- Certified degree certificates and transcripts
- APS certificate (for Chinese applicants)
Deadlines
Application deadlines vary by program. Visit the official DAAD brochure or each university’s site to confirm timelines for 2026/27
Click here to Get Admission or Scholarship Statement of Purpose/Motivation Letter from a Professional.
Method of Application
