The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) Scholarship program provides an exceptional opportunity for foreign graduates from both developed and newly industrialized nations to pursue a postgraduate or Master's degree in Germany. This scholarship allows individuals from all academic disciplines to enroll in a state or state-recognized university in Germany. In some special cases, doctoral candidates can also benefit from this opportunity and obtain a PhD qualification in Germany.
Summary of the DAAD Scholarship 2026
The DAAD Scholarship for the year 2026 is available for those pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral (PhD) degree. The primary institution offering this scholarship is DAAD, and selected candidates will have the opportunity to study at various universities across Germany. The fields of study covered under this scholarship are extensive and include:
Economic Sciences and Law
Agricultural and Forest Sciences
Art and Design
Engineering and Natural Sciences
Humanities and Social Sciences
Language and Cultural Studies
Mathematics and Natural Sciences
Medicine and Health Sciences
A comprehensive list of postgraduate courses available under this scholarship program can be accessed on the DAAD website. The duration of the DAAD scholarship varies depending on the selected study program. The period of study can range between 12 and 36 months. As for the application deadlines, these differ based on the specific study program. Applicants are advised to check the official DAAD website for precise deadline details.
DAAD Scholarship Benefits and Financial Coverage
The DAAD Scholarship for 2026 offers financial aid to successful candidates pursuing their Master's or PhD in Germany. The scholarship provides various financial benefits, including:
Monthly Stipend: The scholarship amount differs based on academic level. Graduates receive a monthly stipend of 934 euros, whereas doctoral candidates receive 1,300 euros per month.
Travel Allowance: The scholarship covers travel expenses unless these costs are already covered by the home country or another financial source.
Health, Accident, and Personal Liability Insurance: Scholarship holders are entitled to coverage for health, accident, and personal liability insurance during their stay in Germany.
Study Allowance: A one-time study allowance is granted to help cover additional academic-related costs.
Additional Benefits (Depending on Individual Circumstances)
In certain cases, scholarship recipients may qualify for extra benefits, such as:
Monthly Rent Subsidy: If the candidate incurs high accommodation expenses, a monthly rental subsidy may be granted.
Family Support: Candidates who have family members accompanying them to Germany may receive an additional monthly allowance to support their dependents.
Eligibility Requirements for DAAD Scholarship 2026
To qualify for the DAAD Scholarship in 2026 for Master’s and PhD programs, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Language Requirements:
For international programs conducted in English, applicants must submit proof of English proficiency, typically through TOEFL or IELTS certificates.
For programs conducted in German, candidates are required to provide proof of German language proficiency, such as a DSH or TestDaF certificate.
Nationality: A list of eligible developing countries can be accessed on the DAAD website.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree (typically a four-year course) or a Master’s degree in a relevant field of study.
Professional Experience:
Applicants must demonstrate at least two years of professional experience relevant to their chosen field of study.
Development-Oriented Motivation:
Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to contributing to the development of their home country. This includes taking on social responsibilities and initiating change in their personal and professional environment after completing their scholarship.
Application Process for DAAD Scholarship 2026
Candidates applying for the DAAD Scholarship for Master's or PhD programs in Germany must follow a structured step-by-step application process.
Applying for Multiple Courses Under DAAD Scholarship
Applicants have the option to apply for up to three different courses under the DAAD Scholarship program. When applying for multiple courses, applicants must list their choices in order of priority in the DAAD application form. It is important to maintain the same priority order across all application documents.
Documents Required for DAAD Scholarship 2026 Application
Candidates need to submit a complete set of documents to be considered for the DAAD Scholarship. The required documents include:
Completed DAAD Application Form: This form must be signed and submitted with the current date.
Curriculum Vitae (CV): A personally signed CV prepared using the Europass format, which can be accessed at Europass.
Motivation Letter:
A personally signed letter explaining the applicant’s current occupation and reasons for choosing a postgraduate program.
Maximum length: Two pages.
If applying for multiple courses (up to three), candidates must submit one motivation letter that justifies their choice and priority ranking of the courses.
Letter of Recommendation from Employer:
Must be written on official letterhead, signed, and stamped by the employer.
The letter must be recent (not submitted in a sealed envelope).
Proof of Professional Experience:
Certificates from previous employers confirming a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.
If possible, applicants should also provide a guarantee of re-employment from their current employer upon returning home.
Language Proficiency Certificates:
English: TOEFL or IELTS (Institutional TOEFL is not accepted).
German: Required for courses taught in German.
Copies of Academic Degrees:
Certified translations may be required.
Copies of Academic Transcripts:
Must include a grading scale (certified translations may be required).
APS Certificate (For Applicants from China):
Candidates from the People’s Republic of China must submit an APS Certificate with their application.
Note: Some courses may have additional document requirements. Candidates should carefully check the course descriptions in the official DAAD brochure or website for specific requirements.
Step-by-Step Application and Selection Process
Select Courses: Applicants should research and choose up to three relevant courses.
Apply to Universities: Submit applications directly to the universities offering these courses.
Submit Documents: Send complete application documents, including the DAAD application form, to the universities.
University Shortlisting: A selection committee reviews applications and recommends potential scholarship candidates.
DAAD Portal Submission: Shortlisted candidates receive an email from DAAD requesting them to upload their application materials to the DAAD Portal.
Final Selection and Notification: The final selection process is conducted, and successful candidates are informed accordingly.
Important Note for Applicants
Applicants should keep a digital copy of all submitted documents, as these will need to be uploaded to the DAAD Portal if they are shortlisted for the scholarship.
For more information about the DAAD Scholarship 2025, including additional funding opportunities, application deadlines, and further details on the application process, candidates are encouraged to visit the official DAAD website.