Are you aspiring to pursue a world-class Master’s education in Europe, completely funded? The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is now inviting outstanding international students from all corners of the globe to apply for its prestigious DAAD Scholarships for Master’s Studies in Germany for the academic year 2025–2026. This highly competitive scholarship provides an all-expenses-paid opportunity to study at top-ranked public universities in Germany, in fields closely aligned with sustainable development and global innovation.
Germany has long been celebrated for its academic excellence, robust research infrastructure, and inclusive higher education system. Through the DAAD scholarship, selected candidates are equipped not only with financial assistance but also with access to a strong academic and professional network across Europe. The program serves as a powerful stepping stone for future leaders, professionals, and researchers who want to make a lasting contribution to their communities and the global knowledge economy.
Scholarship Overview
- Scholarship Name: DAAD Master’s Scholarships 2025–2026
- Funding Organization: DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst / German Academic Exchange Service)
- Study Destination: Germany
- Eligible Level of Study: Master’s Degree
- Program Duration: Typically between 12 to 24 months
- Application Deadline: August 30, 2025
- Eligible Applicants: International students from all academic disciplines and countries
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The DAAD scholarship provides a comprehensive funding package that ensures recipients can concentrate fully on their studies and research. Benefits include:
- Monthly Stipend: €934 to cover living costs
- Tuition Fees: Fully waived, if applicable (most public universities in Germany charge no tuition)
- Travel Grant: A one-time allowance to cover international airfare to and from Germany
- Study and Research Support: One-time study allowance of €460 for academic materials
- Health and Accident Insurance: Full coverage for medical expenses, accidents, and personal liability
- Accommodation Subsidy: Additional financial support for housing if needed
- Family Support: Additional allowances are available for spouses and/or children accompanying the student
- Language Preparation: Fully funded German language courses before or during the academic program
- Exam Reimbursement: Reimbursement of German or English language test fees (such as IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF)
Fields of Study and Participating Institutions
The DAAD Master’s Scholarship supports a wide range of development-related fields, with particular emphasis on:
- Social Sciences and Political Science
- Economics and Development Studies
- Public Policy and Governance
- Environmental Science and Renewable Energy
- Agricultural and Rural Development
- Engineering and Technology
- Education, Health, and Urban Planning
Students are encouraged to apply to German Master’s programs that align with these domains. DAAD collaborates with a variety of accredited public universities and technical institutions across Germany, including:
- Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU Munich)
- University of Heidelberg
- RWTH Aachen University
- Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)
- University of Freiburg
- University of Göttingen
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Bonn
- And many more
Each applicant must choose a Master’s program that matches DAAD’s objectives and meets their academic profile. Some programs may be in English, while others may require proficiency in German.
Who Is Eligible?
The DAAD scholarship is open to candidates from developing and industrial countries, with a focus on individuals committed to advancing development in their home countries. Eligibility requirements include:
- A completed Bachelor’s degree with above-average academic performance
- The degree must be no older than six years at the time of application
- Relevant academic background in the field related to the chosen Master’s program
- Strong motivation letter outlining academic interests, career goals, and reasons for studying in Germany
- Language proficiency:
- English-taught programs: IELTS (minimum 6.5) or TOEFL iBT (minimum 79)
- German-taught programs: DSH or TestDaF certification
- Demonstrated commitment to development-related work, such as community service, public sector work, NGOs, or relevant research
- Fulfilment of any additional requirements set by the target university
Required Application Documents
All applicants must prepare and upload the following documents as part of their DAAD scholarship application:
- Completed DAAD Online Application Form (available on the DAAD portal)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) – up to 3 pages in tabular form (Europass format recommended)
- Motivation Letter – clearly stating reasons for choosing the specific study program, career aspirations, and how your work will benefit your home country
- Official Transcripts and Degree Certificates – certified copies with English or German translations
- Proof of Language Proficiency – English (IELTS/TOEFL) or German (DSH/TestDaF)
- Letter of Reference – from a university professor, signed and printed on official letterhead (no digital signatures)
- Letter of Admission – if already obtained from a German university (optional at the application stage)
- DAAD Form: Information on Preferred Master’s Programs
- Passport Copy – showing personal information and photo
- Proof of Relevant Work Experience or Internships (if applicable)
- Evidence of Extracurricular Activities or Volunteering (optional but recommended)
- Translations – All documents must be in English or German; include certified translations where necessary
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to successfully apply for the DAAD Scholarships 2025–2026:
- Visit the Official Website: Application Portal
- Create an Account: Register on the DAAD application portal.
- Select Eligible Programs: Choose up to three Master’s programs that meet DAAD criteria.
- Download the Reference Form: Share it with your referee and ensure it is hand-signed (no electronic signatures).
- Prepare All Documents: Scan and save all documents in PDF format, ensuring proper naming conventions.
- Complete the Online Form: Fill in your personal information, academic history, and study plans.
- Upload Documents: Submit the full application, including all attachments.
- Send Reference Letter by Post: Depending on your country, this step may be required—check country-specific instructions.
- Track Application: Monitor your email and the DAAD portal for status updates and interview invitations.
Application Deadline
The final deadline for submission of applications for the DAAD Master’s Scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year is:
August 30, 2025
Ensure that your complete application—including references and certified documents—is submitted before this date to be considered.
Why Choose Germany for Graduate Study?
Germany remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students, thanks to:
- High academic standards and research opportunities
- No or low tuition fees at public universities
- A multicultural, inclusive learning environment
- Excellent career prospects in Europe and beyond
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant student life
By studying in Germany under a DAAD scholarship, you’ll not only earn a respected Master’s degree but also build lifelong connections and a strong foundation for global impact.
Apply Now and Take the Next Step in Your Academic Journey
Official DAAD Application Portal
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