DAAD Scholarships 2025: Fully Funded Postgraduate Study in Germany
written by Sidra BatoolWhat Is the DAAD Scholarship?
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers fully funded scholarships for graduates and professionals from developing countries to pursue postgraduate degrees in Germany. These scholarships are designed for individuals who have a strong academic background, professional experience, and a commitment to development work in their home countries. The program enables students to gain international qualifications and return to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Who Can Apply for DAAD Scholarships 2025?
The DAAD scholarship targets professionals currently working in development-related roles within public authorities, state institutions, or private enterprises in eligible developing countries.
Eligible Applicant Profile
| Criteria | Details |
| Nationality | Must be a national of a country on the OECD-DAC list (excluding Turkey and Balkan countries) |
| Academic Background | Holds a four-year Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject |
| Academic Performance | Degree with above-average results (upper third) |
| Professional Experience | At least two years of related full-time work experience after graduation |
| Recent Academic Degree | Degree completion no more than six years prior to application |
| Employment Context | Currently involved in development planning/execution in relevant sectors |
What Does It Cover?
The DAAD scholarship offers comprehensive financial support that includes living costs, insurance, travel, and in some cases, support for dependents.
Scholarship Benefits Overview
| Benefit | Details |
| Monthly Stipend | €992 for master’s students, €1,300 for doctoral candidates |
| Insurance Coverage | Health, accident, and personal liability insurance |
| Travel Allowance | Covered unless paid by home country or other sponsor |
| Additional Support | Monthly rent subsidy and family allowance (if applicable) |
| Duration | 12–24 months for Master’s, up to 42 months for PhD |
When Is the Deadline for DAAD Scholarships 2025?
While deadlines vary depending on the course and institution, most fall between August and October 2025 for the 2026/2027 academic intake.
Key Dates for DAAD Scholarships 2025
| Application Timeline | Estimated Period |
| Applications Open | Mid-2025 |
| Application Deadline | August to October 2025 (varies by course) |
| Program Start | Academic Year 2026/2027 |
Fields of Study
DAAD scholarships are available for a wide range of development-related fields. Courses are taught at various state-recognized German universities.
How to Apply?
The application process is managed directly by the participating universities and their respective degree programs.
Steps to Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
- Identify an eligible postgraduate course from the DAAD list.
- Visit the course’s official website to review admission requirements and deadlines.
- Prepare required documents, which may include:
- CV and DAAD application form
- Motivation letter
- Academic transcripts and degrees
- Proof of professional experience
- Language proficiency certificates (German or English)
- Submit your application directly to the university offering the program.
- Wait for confirmation from the university and DAAD.
DAAD has also published a 2026/2027 program brochure with all the latest deadlines and program links.
Language Requirements
Applicants must meet the language standards for their selected courses:
| Course Language | Language Requirement |
| German-taught | At least B1 German (certificate ≤ 2 years old); DAAD offers up to 6 months language prep |
| English-taught | Proof of proficiency according to university requirements (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, etc.) |
Language proficiency is a key part of eligibility and must align with the course’s instruction medium.
The DAAD scholarship doesn’t just offer free education—it’s a launchpad for international collaboration and professional growth. It empowers development professionals to gain world-class education, return to their home countries with advanced skills, and contribute to the transformation of public systems, infrastructure, and policy.
With a network that spans the globe, DAAD scholars join a powerful community of alumni working across government, NGOs, academia, and the private sector.
Take the next step toward becoming a development leader. Explore DAAD Scholarships 2025 and begin your application process today.
Official Website:
Leave a Reply