funding: Monthly stipend + travel grant + health insurance
location: Germany
eligibility: International students and researchers worldwide
host: German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
duration: 1–2 years
apply-url: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD — Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is the world's largest funding organisation for international academic exchange. Every year, DAAD funds over 100,000 scholars worldwide through dozens of scholarship programmes covering bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and postdoctoral research at German universities and research institutions.
What You Get
DAAD scholarships typically include a monthly stipend (around €861 for graduates, €1,200 for doctoral students, and €1,750 for postdocs), health insurance, travel allowance, German language course fee support, and a study and research allowance. The exact package depends on the specific programme and your level of study.
Popular DAAD Programmes
The DAAD Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates and Young Scientists support researchers who want to carry out research projects at German universities. The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme funds master's studies for development professionals. The DAAD Scholarships for Development-Related Courses target students from developing countries pursuing master's degrees in fields relevant to national development. The DAAD Research Stays for University Academics allows university lecturers to conduct short-term research in Germany.
Eligibility
Eligibility varies by programme. Most DAAD scholarships are open to students and academics from all countries. Key requirements typically include a strong academic record, a completed bachelor's or master's degree depending on the programme level, a well-developed study or research plan, and at least two years of undergraduate study completed. Proficiency in German or English depends on the language of instruction of your target programme.
Application Deadlines
DAAD deadlines vary by programme but most fall between October and December for the following academic year. Some programmes such as the In-Country/In-Region Scholarships accept applications year-round. Check the DAAD scholarship database at daad.de/en to filter by your nationality, field, and degree level for programme-specific deadlines.
How to Apply
Most DAAD applications are submitted through the DAAD portal at portal.daad.de. A typical application includes a CV, motivation letter, research proposal or study plan, academic transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and language certificates. DAAD also has offices in many countries that offer information sessions and application support — check daad.de for your nearest office.