The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the world’s largest funding organisations for international academic exchange. It offers many scholarship programmes for international students and researchers. Combined with low or no tuition fees at most public universities, Germany is an attractive study destination. This guide explains how DAAD scholarships work.
Information checked: 24 October 2026.
Important: DAAD has many programmes with different rules. Always check the specific programme in the official DAAD scholarship database.
Why Germany?
Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for most programmes, although students usually pay a semester contribution. Some states and programmes charge fees for non-EU students; for example, the state of Baden-Württemberg has charged tuition fees to many non-EU international students. Check each university.
What DAAD Scholarships Typically Provide
Benefits depend on the programme. According to DAAD’s scholarship database, many study scholarships for graduates typically provide:
- a monthly payment (listed in the 2026 database as €992 per month for graduates in several programmes);
- health, accident and personal liability insurance;
- travel allowance (unless covered by another source);
- a study allowance.
DAAD scholarships for doctoral candidates usually pay a higher monthly amount. DAAD generally does not pay tuition fees. Check the exact benefits of your programme in the database.
Main Types of DAAD Funding
- Study scholarships for graduates: for master’s study in Germany, with programmes for specific fields or regions.
- Development-related postgraduate courses (EPOS): master’s and some PhD courses relevant to developing countries, often for professionals with work experience.
- Research grants: for doctoral candidates and young researchers.
- Short-term research stays and summer courses.
Using the DAAD Scholarship Database
DAAD’s database lets you filter by:
- your country of origin;
- your status (graduate, doctoral candidate, etc.);
- your subject.
Each entry explains eligibility, benefits, deadlines and how to apply. Deadlines vary by programme and country, and many fall 10 to 12 months before the start of study.
Typical Eligibility
Requirements vary but commonly include:
- a completed bachelor’s degree (for master’s scholarships), usually not more than a few years ago;
- strong academic results;
- language skills (English or German, depending on the course);
- for EPOS, relevant professional experience.
Application Documents
Common documents include:
- DAAD application form via the DAAD portal;
- CV (often in Europass format);
- motivation letter;
- reference letters;
- transcripts and certificates;
- language certificates.
Writing the Motivation Letter
- explain why Germany and why the chosen course(s);
- describe how your studies relate to your career goals and your home country;
- give concrete examples of your academic and professional achievements;
- be specific about the universities and courses you have selected.
Student Visas and Blocked Accounts
Non-EU students usually need a national visa for study purposes. Applicants often need to show proof of financing, frequently through a blocked account or a scholarship award letter. A DAAD scholarship letter may serve as proof of funding; check with the German mission in your country. The official Make it in Germany portal and German missions provide current requirements.
Other Funding in Germany
- Deutschlandstipendium: merit-based scholarships awarded by universities.
- Political foundations and religious organisations offer scholarships for international students.
- University-specific funding.
A Realistic Preparation Timeline
DAAD deadlines differ by programme and country, and many fall between August and November for funding that starts the following year. A typical timeline looks like this:
- 12–15 months before your planned start: search the DAAD scholarship database with your nationality, subject and degree level, and note each programme’s deadline and required documents.
- 10–12 months before: contact potential supervisors if you are applying for doctoral or research funding, and confirm that your degree is recognised for admission in Germany.
- 8–10 months before: write your motivation letter and research proposal (if required), request recommendation letters and prepare language certificates.
- 6–8 months before: submit the DAAD application through the DAAD portal, following the specific instructions for your programme.
- After the decision: apply for your visa, arrange health insurance and look for accommodation, which can be scarce in many German university cities.
Strengthening a Research Proposal
For doctoral and research grants, the proposal often carries the most weight. A strong proposal usually:
- states a clear research question in the first paragraph;
- summarises what is already known and identifies the gap your project addresses;
- explains your method and data sources in practical terms;
- includes a realistic work plan with milestones for each semester;
- shows why the German host institution and supervisor are the right fit.
Keep it within the page limit and ask someone outside your field to read it. If they cannot explain your project back to you, simplify the language.
Living Costs and Budgeting
Even with a scholarship, budget carefully. Rent is usually the largest cost and varies a lot between cities, with Munich, Frankfurt and Hamburg typically more expensive than smaller university towns. Other common costs include the semester contribution charged by universities, health insurance, public transport (often partly covered by the semester ticket), food and course materials. Check the official information from DAAD and your university for current figures before you move.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying for the wrong programme for your nationality or degree level.
- Missing the deadline for your country, which may differ from the general one.
- Assuming DAAD pays tuition fees. It generally does not, so check fees at your chosen university.
- Submitting a generic motivation letter that does not explain how the study period supports your career and home country.
Working While Studying in Germany
International students from outside the EU can usually work in Germany for up to 140 full days or 280 half days a year under student residence rules, with additional allowances for student assistant jobs at universities in some cases. DAAD scholarship holders should also check their award conditions, as the scholarship may set limits on additional income. Always read the conditions in your award letter and ask the DAAD if you are unsure.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is compulsory for students in Germany. Many DAAD scholarships include health insurance or a contribution towards it, but the arrangements depend on the programme. If your award does not include it, you will need to arrange statutory or approved private insurance before enrolling at the university.
Learning German
Even if your course is taught in English, basic German helps with daily life, finding accommodation and part-time work. Some DAAD programmes include or fund language courses before or during your studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do DAAD scholarships cover tuition?
Generally no, but many public universities charge no tuition or low fees.
Do I need German?
Many master’s programmes are taught in English. Some scholarships require German skills.
Can I apply without an admission letter?
For many programmes, yes, but you must eventually be admitted to the university.
Are there age or graduation limits?
Some programmes require that your last degree is recent. Check the programme.
Can I work while studying in Germany?
Students from outside the EU can work limited hours. Check current rules.
Where can I find DAAD advice in my country?
DAAD has regional offices and information centres in many countries.
Summary and Next Step
DAAD offers many scholarships for study and research in Germany, typically providing a monthly stipend, insurance and travel support. Use the database to find your programme and apply early. For study across multiple European countries, read our Erasmus Mundus guide.