Complete Guide to DAAD Scholarships for Master's and PhD Candidates
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the largest funding organization in the world for international students. A DAAD scholarship is highly prestigious because it is fully funded—covering tuition fees, travel costs, health insurance, and providing a monthly stipend.
In this guide, we break down the major DAAD scholarship programs and explain how to submit a winning application.
Major DAAD Scholarship Programs
1. DAAD EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses)
- Target: Students from developing nations applying for sustainable, development-related Master's or PhD programs.
- Stipend: €934 per month for Master's, €1,300 per month for PhD candidates.
- Requirement: At least two years of professional work experience in a relevant field.
2. Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)
- Target: Future leaders from developing countries applying to Master's degrees in public policy, public management, or governance.
- Benefits: Full tuition waiver, monthly stipend of €934, and paid German language training courses.
Required Application Documents
The selection committee evaluates your academic record and your dedication to solving global challenges. You must submit:
- DAAD Application Form: Completed and signed.
- Hand-signed CV: Formatted in the Europass layout.
- Motivation Letter: Max 2 pages, detailing your academic goals and how your studies will benefit your home country.
- Recommendation Letters: From university professors or employers.
- Proof of Work Experience: Official certificates indicating a minimum of 2 years of experience.
- Language Certificates: IELTS/TOEFL (for English courses) or TestDaF/DSH (for German courses).
DAAD Selection Timeline
| Phase | Month | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation | March - June | Research eligible courses and collect letters. |
| Application Submission | August - October | Submit application to either DAAD or the university directly. |
| Evaluation | November - January | DAAD committee reviews academic files and portfolios. |
| Results Announcement | February - April | Final selections announced. Visa applications begin. |
[!IMPORTANT] Make sure your motivation letter focuses on the practical application of your research. DAAD looks for candidates who will return to their home countries and make a positive social or economic impact.
Find DAAD-funded university programs and match your GPA using Studplex.