Imagine your university building a seamless pathway where high-achieving students earn respected degrees from both a German institution and a leading international partner university. They split their studies between two countries, gain deep intercultural experience, and graduate with credentials that open doors across global job markets.
This vision is exactly what the DAAD is supporting through its current call for the preparatory phase of integrated international degree programs with dual degrees (2027-2028). German higher education institutions now have a strategic opportunity to design and lay the groundwork for transformative joint programs that strengthen internationalization and create lasting student mobility.
Whether you work in an international office, lead academic partnerships, or shape curriculum strategy, this funding call deserves your attention. Here is everything you need to know to prepare a competitive application.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Germany
- Host University: German Higher Education Institutions
- Scholarship Type: Undergraduate Scholarships/MSC Scholarships/PhD Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Full tuition fee, Living stipend, etc.
Overview of DAAD Integrated International Degree Programs with Dual Degrees
The DAAD program funds the development and implementation of international study programs built on joint curricula between German and foreign partner universities. Students — carefully selected high performers from Germany and abroad — alternate periods of study at both institutions. Upon successful completion, they receive national degrees from each university, either as a joint degree or a double degree.
The core aim goes beyond individual student success. These programs are designed to:
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- Deepen academic exchange between German and international faculty and students
- Build sustainable international structures at German universities
- Create high-quality, attractive educational offers that enhance institutional reputation and global competitiveness
This is not a one-off student scholarship. It is structured, long-term project funding that helps universities establish entire degree programs with built-in mobility and dual credentials.
Why Dual Degree Programs Matter in 2027 and Beyond
Global employers increasingly value candidates who combine technical expertise with international experience, language skills, and cross-cultural competence. Dual degree graduates stand out because they have lived and studied in two academic systems.
For universities, these programs deliver strategic advantages:
- Stronger international partnerships and research collaboration
- Increased inbound and outbound student mobility
- Enhanced visibility in global university rankings and recruitment
- Contribution to diversity, equity, and inclusion goals
- Long-term alumni networks spanning multiple countries
In a competitive higher education landscape, institutions that offer well-designed dual degree pathways position themselves as leaders in internationalization.
The Three Funding Phases Explained
The DAAD structures support across three phases:
- Preparatory Phase (current call) — Planning, partnership development, curriculum design, feasibility assessment, and initial coordination. This phase helps universities solidify concepts before full implementation.
- Funding Phase — Full rollout of the dual degree program, including substantial support for student mobility cohorts.
- Follow-up Funding — Available after eight years in the funding phase to help sustain and further develop the program.
The current tender focuses specifically on the preparatory phase for projects targeting the 2027-2028 period. Success here positions your institution for the more comprehensive funding phase later.
See Also:
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Who Can Apply?
Only state and state-recognized German higher education institutions (universities and universities of applied sciences) are eligible to submit applications.
Key notes:
- Applications involving partner institutions in Russia or Belarus are not possible due to the DAAD’s suspension of institutional cooperation.
- Projects with French partners must be submitted through the Franco-German University (DFH) at www.dfh-ufa.org — not directly via this DAAD call.
International partner universities play a central role in the program concept but do not submit the application themselves. Strong, equitable partnerships are essential for success.
Important Deadlines and the Must-Attend Information Session
- Application deadline: October 15, 2026
- Information event: September 1, 2026 (10:00–11:30 CEST via Microsoft Teams)
The information session will cover program-specific details, application requirements, and a dedicated Q&A. Registration closes August 31, 2026. Register here: https://www.daad.de/surveys/745353?lang=de
Attending is highly recommended — it provides clarity on what makes a strong proposal and answers technical questions directly from the DAAD team.
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How to Apply: Step-by-Step Overview
Applications are submitted online through the DAAD portal. Successful proposals typically include:
- A clear project description using the official template
- Detailed plans for joint curriculum development and quality assurance
- Student mobility concept (alternating study periods, credit recognition, support structures)
- Partnership agreements and roles of each institution
- Financing plan
- Alignment with DAAD priorities such as equal opportunities, diversity, climate-sensitive implementation, and inclusion for students with disabilities or chronic illness
Pro tips for a competitive application:
- Demonstrate genuine academic added value from the partnership rather than a simple exchange agreement.
- Show how the program will attract and support high-achieving students from Germany and abroad.
- Integrate DAAD guidelines on diversity, equity, climate responsibility, and accessible mobility from the start.
- Present a realistic sustainability plan — how the program will continue successfully after the initial funding period.
- Use the official checklist and indicator catalog to ensure your proposal addresses all required elements.
Technical issues close to the deadline? Contact portal@daad.de or the hotline (+49 228 882-8888, weekdays 9–12 and 14–16 CET/CEST) promptly and document everything if you need a deadline extension.
Key Resources and Downloads
Visit the official program page to access all materials Here.
Essential downloads include:
- Funding framework for the preparation phase
- Template for project description
- Indicator catalog and effects structure
- Instructions for the financing plan
- Guidelines on climate-sensitive cooperation and strengthening equal opportunities/diversity
- Information sheet on mobility with disability and chronic illness
- FAQ and preparation phase checklist
Further background information is available here.
Who Benefits from These Programs?
While German universities lead the applications, the impact reaches far beyond campus borders. Students from around the world — including talented graduates from Africa, Latin America, Asia, and beyond — gain access to high-quality, internationally recognized education pathways. Faculty exchange strengthens research collaboration. German institutions enhance their global profile and contribute to a more interconnected higher education landscape.
Final Thoughts: Act Now to Shape the Future of International Education
The DAAD preparatory phase funding for integrated international dual degree programs represents a strategic investment in the next generation of globally minded graduates and stronger university partnerships. With a clear deadline of October 15, 2026 and a valuable information session on September 1, now is the time to start building your concept and assembling your team.
Strong applications will feature thoughtful curriculum integration, robust mobility plans, commitment to diversity and sustainability, and genuine partnership value. Institutions that invest effort in the preparatory phase position themselves for long-term success in the full funding phase and beyond.
Ready to begin? Start by downloading the templates and guidelines from the official DAAD page linked above. Register for the information session before August 31. Reach out to your international office or academic leadership to discuss potential partner institutions and program ideas.
For the latest updates on this and other DAAD opportunities for higher education institutions, bookmark the official program page and stay connected with DAAD announcements.
This funding call has the potential to create dozens of new, high-quality dual degree pathways that will benefit students and universities for years to come. The question is: Will your institution be among those leading the way in 2027?
Official Program Page & Application Here.
English Program Overview Here.
Start preparing today. The future of international dual degree education at your university could begin with this application.