A Complete Guide for International Students
Some of the requested scholarships for international students studying in Germany are the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) Scholarship. DAAD offers various measures of funding – for students, graduates and researchers – at all stages of their academic life. The scholarship program is open for attendance at recognized German universities for master’s and doctoral programs.
The DAAD emphasizes the fostering of international academic cooperation and of Germany as an appealing educational target. The university is open to all students from over 100 countries, enabling them to receive a high qualified education and get international experience.
Fields Covered
But, the following study programs are supported by DAAD, among others:
- Engineering and Technology
- Natural Sciences
- Medicine and Public Health
- Social Sciences
- Economics and Business Administration
- Law and Governance
- Environmental Sciences
- Media Studies
Eligibility Criteria
The applicants should fulfil the following criteria to qualify for a DAAD scholarship:
- The bachelor’s degree applicants must have completed a bachelor’s degree and for PhD applicants it is necessary to have completed a master’s degree.
- Should have at least two years of work experience in their relevant field
- Strong academic records (minimum GPA requirements vary by program)
- Proficiency in English or German, depending on the course requirements (TOEFL, IELTS, or TestDaF scores may be required)
- Applicants must meet specific country-specific requirements set by DAAD
Requirements for the Scholarship
The application package for DAAD includes:
- A completed online application
- A statement of purpose (SOP) outlining academic and professional goals
- A detailed CV (preferably in Europass format)
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Two or more letters of recommendation
- A research proposal (for doctoral applicants)
- Language proficiency test scores (if required)
- Proof of work experience
Scholarship Benefits & Stipend
- The financial coverage is quite comprehensive and includes:
- Full or partial coverage depending on the program is granted for tuition fees.
- Monthly Stipend:
- €934 per month for master’s students
- €1,200 per month for PhD candidates
- Health Insurance: Full medical insurance coverage
- Travel Allowance: The applicant should receive a one-time airfare allowance to move from Germany to the country of sponsorship and back to Germany respectively.
- Research & Study Grants (additional funds for research project, books, & conference participation)
- Language Course: German language training (if applicable to the program)
- DAAD also provides Networking Opportunities: access to DAAD alumni networks and academic support.
How to Apply
- All DAAD programs are subject to availability, so you will want to check it first. Below is a link to the DAAD website with programs listed. There are programs for research, Master’s degrees and Ph.D.s; they are available throughout the year and all over Germany.
- Before the deadline, it may be advisable to prepare Required Documents.
- Apply through the DAAD portal or at the specified university websites.
- Shortlisted candidates may have to attend an interview.
- Successful applicants to be notified about Scholarship Decision via email.
Application Deadline
Although DAAD scholarships have a wide range of deadlines according to the program and institution, they typically fall between September and December. Please note that the DAAD portal generally closes at 14.00 (German local time) of the application deadline. Applicants are advised to submit their applications at least ONE DAY before applications close.
The DAAD Scholarship is an extremely great opportunity for international students who wish to go for the studies in Germany with full financial support. For ambitious students desiring to go beyond their current academic or professional horizons, this scholarship offers the perfect opportunity to earn your degrees in the most stable and diverse European nation.
Please, visit the official DAAD website for more details.
