The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organization for the international exchange of students and researchers. It offers a wide range of scholarship programs to support international students who wish to pursue their studies in Germany.
One of the most popular DAAD scholarship programs is the Study Scholarship, which provides funding for international students to complete a postgraduate or Master’s degree at a German university.
What are DAAD Study Scholarships?
DAAD Study Scholarships are awarded to international students who have completed their first degree (e.g., Bachelor’s or Diplom) and wish to continue their academic education in Germany with a postgraduate or Master’s degree program. The scholarships are funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and cover a wide range of academic disciplines, including:
- Economic Sciences, Law
- Agricultural and Forest Sciences
- Art, Design
- Engineering and Natural Sciences
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Language and Cultural Studies
- Mathematics, Natural Sciences
- Medicine, Health Sciences
Benefits of DAAD Study Scholarships
DAAD Study Scholarships offer a range of benefits to successful applicants, including:
- Monthly payments of 934 euros for graduates or 1,300 euros for doctoral candidates
- Travel allowance, unless these expenses are covered by the home country or another source of funding
- Payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance cover
- One-off study allowance
- Possible additional benefits such as a monthly rent subsidy or allowance for accompanying family members
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Study Scholarships
To be eligible for a DAAD Study Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Language Requirements
- For international programs, the language of instruction is English. Applicants are usually required to submit an English language certificate, such as TOEFL or IELTS.
- For programs where the language of instruction is German, applicants are usually required to submit a German language certificate, such as DSH or TestDaF.
Academic Requirements
- Applicants must have a Bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year course) or Master’s degree in an appropriate subject.
- Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience.
Eligible Countries
DAAD Study Scholarships are available to applicants from developing and newly industrialized countries. A list of eligible countries can be found on the DAAD website.
Motivation and Social Responsibility
Applicants must demonstrate that their motivation is development-related and that they can be expected to take on social responsibility and initiate and support processes of change in their personal and professional environment after their scholarship.
Application Process for DAAD Study Scholarships
To apply for a DAAD Study Scholarship, applicants must follow a step-by-step application procedure:
- Check the scholarship database on the DAAD website to find the appropriate scholarship program and application deadline.
- Register in the DAAD portal and request a recommendation form.
- Fill out the online application form in the DAAD portal and upload the required documents, which may include:
- Online application form
- Full curriculum vitae in tabular form (max. 3 pages)
- Letter of motivation, 1-3 pages: statement about the academic and personal reasons for the planned study project in Germany
- Copies of university degree certificates and transcripts
- Language certificates
- Proof of work experience
- Letter of recommendation from a university teacher
- Submit the application online before the stated deadline.
It’s important to note that applications for DAAD Study Scholarships are reviewed by independent and voluntary selection committees, which assess the applicant’s professional qualifications, the quality of the study project, and the applicant’s potential. Special circumstances, such as disability, may be taken into account during the selection process.
Specific DAAD Study Scholarship Programs
In addition to the general Study Scholarships for Master Studies in All Academic Disciplines, DAAD offers several specific scholarship programs for international students:
Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines
This scholarship program is aimed at high-achieving students from developing and emerging countries who would like to complete a Master’s degree in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and engineering at a German university. Funding is provided for 10 to 24 months, depending on the standard period of study of the chosen full-time Master’s degree program.
ERP Study Scholarships for Graduates of Economics and Business Administration
DAAD offers one-year scholarships as part of two-year Master’s study programs for students from countries in Eastern, Central Eastern, and Southeastern Europe. The scholarships are funded by the European Recovery Program (ERP) of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action.
Tips for a Successful DAAD Study Scholarship Application
To increase your chances of being selected for a DAAD Study Scholarship, consider the following tips:
- Choose your study program carefully: Make sure that the Master’s program you select aligns with your academic and professional goals and that it is a good fit for your background and interests.
- Prepare a strong letter of motivation: Your letter of motivation should clearly explain your reasons for wanting to study in Germany, your academic and professional goals, and how the scholarship will help you achieve these goals.
- Demonstrate your language proficiency: Provide strong evidence of your English or German language skills, depending on the language of instruction of your chosen program.
- Highlight your professional experience: Make sure to emphasize your relevant work experience and how it has prepared you for graduate-level studies in Germany.
- Secure a strong letter of recommendation: Ask a university teacher who knows you well to write a letter of recommendation that highlights your academic strengths and potential for success in your chosen field.
- Pay attention to details: Carefully follow all application instructions and submit all required documents before the stated deadline.
Conclusion
DAAD Study Scholarships offer a unique opportunity for international students to pursue their academic goals in Germany while receiving generous financial support. With a wide range of scholarship programs available and a comprehensive application process, DAAD is committed to supporting the international exchange of students and researchers.
By following the eligibility criteria and application guidelines, and by preparing a strong application, international students can increase their chances of being selected for a DAAD Study Scholarship and embarking on a life-changing educational experience in Germany.