Introduction to DAAD Scholarship

The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) scholarship remains one of the most prestigious funding programs for international students pursuing higher education in Germany. Established in 1925, it supports over 100,000 scholars each year across bachelor's, master's, PhD, and postdoctoral levels. As of November 2025, with many applications for the 2026 intake either ongoing or recently closed, this guide—updated for the current cycle—covers essential details from eligibility to deadlines.

In 2026, DAAD emphasizes academic excellence, sustainability, and global collaboration. Fully funded options cover tuition, stipends, insurance, and travel, ideal for seekers of DAAD scholarships in Germany.

What is the DAAD Scholarship? Overview and Types

Funded by the German government and partners, DAAD offers over 200 scholarships promoting international mobility. Key types for 2026:

DAAD Scholarship for Masters Programs

Targeted at graduates from developing countries, the DAAD scholarship for masters via EPOS focuses on development fields like engineering and public policy. Eligibility: Bachelor's with GPA ~2.5 (German scale), 2+ years experience, English/German proficiency (IELTS 6.5+). Stipend: €992/month + rent/travel.

DAAD Scholarship for PhD

Up to 4 years funding for research, with €1,300/month stipend. Popular for STEM/social sciences. Requires master's, proposal, German supervisor.

DAAD Scholarship for Undergraduate and Bachelor Degrees

Limited via exchanges. High school completion, language skills; €992/month.

Other DAAD Scholarship Programs

Helmut Schmidt Programme: For public policy masters; next cycle opens June 2026.
EPOS Scholarship: Development courses; deadlines vary to March 2026.
Research Grants/Internships: Short-term PhD options, including summers.

DAAD Scholarship Eligibility Requirements 2026

Criteria ensure merit-based selection:

Academic and Professional Qualifications

GPA ≥2.5; 2 years experience for many masters.
Language: IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF.

Country-Specific Eligibility

Prioritizes developing/emerging nations (India, Pakistan, Africa).

Age and Other Criteria

Under 35 preferred; no strict limit. Needs: Motivation letter, CV, recommendations.

DAAD Scholarship Application Process

Online via DAAD portal:

Step 1: Find Your Program

Search database at www.daad.de.

Step 2: Prepare Documents

Transcripts, CV (Europass), motivation, recommendations. No fee.

Step 3: Submit Online

Step 4: Interviews and Selection

Interviews for shortlists; results 2-3 months later.

DAAD Scholarship Deadlines 2026

As of November 13, 2025, some deadlines have passed; check DAAD site for updates. Focus on remaining/open cycles:

Program	Deadline	Start Date	Notes
EPOS/Development Postgraduate	Varies (Aug 2025–Mar 2026)	Oct 2026	Program-specific; many closed, others open (e.g., Mar 15, 2026).
Helmut Schmidt	Jun–Jul 2026 (next cycle)	Sep/Oct 2027	2025 deadline passed; for 2026 start.
PhD Research Grants	Varies (Oct–Dec 2025)	Flexible	In-Country: Nov 27, 2025.
Undergraduate Exchanges	Mar 2026	Summer 2026	Limited.
Summer Internships	Nov 2025–Jan 2026	Jun 2026

For DAAD scholarship 2026 deadline, verify via official PDF.

Benefits and Funding of DAAD Scholarship

Comprehensive coverage:

Financial Support: Tuition-free, €992 (masters)/€1,300 (PhD) monthly, insurance, €1,200 books.
Travel and Accommodation: Flights, subsidies.
Perks: Language courses, networking.

Fully funded totals €12,000–€15,000/year.

DAAD Scholarship for Specific Countries and Disciplines

Developing Countries: Africa/Asia focus; e.g., Ethiopian (high competition).
Disciplines: Engineering, CS, health.

Common Challenges and Tips for DAAD Scholarship Success

Competition low PPC-wise, but 10-15% acceptance. Tips:

Early prep.
Tailor letter for impact.
Forums: Quora/Reddit.

Conclusion: Your Path to a DAAD Scholarship in 2026

DAAD empowers global leaders in Germany. With 2026 cycles active, visit www.daad.de for DAAD scholarship 2026 details.

DAAD Scholarship