Everything You Need to Know About DAAD Scholarships: Eligibility, Benefits & More

Germany has long been a favorite destination for international students. In 2024, over 46,000 Indian students traveled to Germany for higher education. 

Germany has an excellent infrastructure for higher education in science, technology, and engineering. The country also offers a lucrative post-study work visa which allows international graduates to stay in Germany for up to 18 months. This makes it very attractive for students from India.

One of the biggest factors that draws students to Germany is the DAAD scholarships. These scholarships are available for a variety of programs from short-term study to PhD. 

In this article, we share every detail about DAAD scholarships and how you can avail its benefits. Without further delay let’s dive right in. 

What are DAAD Scholarships for international students 

The German Academic Exchange Service or Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) offers the DAAD scholarships. It is an association of German educational institutions that offers financial aid to international students and researchers.

The DAAD scholarships are funded by the German government and the European Union. These scholarships are available for a variety of programs, including Master’s degrees, PhDs, and short-term research programs.

In the following sections, we shall discuss the various types of DAAD scholarships, their eligibility criteria, and benefits. 

Types of DAAD Scholarships in 2025

DAAD offers multiple scholarship programs for students who want to study and conduct research in Germany. These scholarships are classified based on academic levels and fields of study. Some of the most well-known ones include:

DAAD Scholarship for Master’s Studies

The DAAD Scholarship for Master’s Studies is meant for international students who want to pursue a master’s degree in Germany. The scholarship is available for students in a wide variety of fields. This includes engineering, natural sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

DAAD Research Grants

DAAD Research Grant allows researchers to conduct research projects at a German university or research institution for a set period. It can range between a few months to several years depending on the research project and its duration. 

DAAD Short-Term Research Grant

The DAAD Short-Term Research Grant is for researchers who wish to conduct short-term research in Germany. This scholarship provides financial support for a minimum of one month to a maximum of six months. 

DAAD Scholarship for PhD Studies

The DAAD Scholarship for PhD Studies is for international students who are going to do a doctoral degree in Germany. This scholarship covers all academic fields and offers financial support for up to three years.

DAAD Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers

The DAAD Scholarship for Postdoctoral Researchers is aimed at young researchers who want to conduct postdoctoral research in Germany. This scholarship provides financial support for up to two years.

DAAD Scholarship for International Students with Disabilities

The DAAD Scholarship for International Students with Disabilities is for students with disabilities who wish to pursue higher education in Germany. This scholarship provides financial support for undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies.

DAAD-EPOS Scholarship

DAAD-EPOS scholarship is a scholarship offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for “Development-Related Postgraduate Courses”. It is specifically designed to support graduates from developing and newly industrialized countries who want to pursue a postgraduate degree in Germany. 

DAAD-STIBET Scholarship

The DAAD-STIBET scholarship is a short-term scholarship program for international students in Germany. It is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Foreign Office (Auswärtiges Amt).

DAAD-SEARCA Scholarship

The DAAD-SEARCA Scholarship is a scholarship program that provides financial support for students in Southeast Asia to study at the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA).

DAAD-AICGS Scholarship

The DAAD-AGI Research Fellowship Program is a scholarship that supports research at the American Institute for Contemporary German Studies (AICGS) in Washington, DC.

Here is an overview of a few DAAD scholarships for master’s courses that are suitable for Indian students:

In the next section, we look at the eligibility criteria for the various DAAD scholarships for Indian and international students. 

Also Read: Best Scholarships for Indian Students in USA

DAAD Scholarship eligibility criteria 2025

The DAAD Scholarship program is highly competitive and attracts thousands of international applications each year. Applicants have to meet multiple criteria which vary based on the type of scholarship. 

However, there are some common requirements:

• Academic Excellence

All applicants must have an outstanding academic record. For admission to a master’s degree program a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 8.5/10 is usually required. 

• German Language Proficiency

Most university courses in Germany are taught in German. You have to demonstrate proficiency in German through TestDaF. For Indian students, the relevant TestDaF levels are TestDaF Levels 4 and 5. These correspond to the B2-C1 level of proficiency in CEFR (Common European Framework). Most universities will expect a minimum score of Level 4 in all four sections of the exam.

• English Language Proficiency

A few courses are taught in English and you have to provide proof of proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. An IELTS score of 6 is the minimum requirement. 

• Professional Experience

For some types of aid, such as EPOS scholarships, applicants must have at least two years of relevant professional experience.

• Age Limit

Some DAAD scholarships have age limits. It is 32 years for master’s programs and 36 years for PhD programs at the time of application.

Please read the specific terms and conditions for the DAAD scholarship you select. Remember that meeting these criteria does not guarantee selection. It is only the first step in the evaluation process.

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Now, let’s walk through the DAAD Scholarship application process for 2025 step by step.

DAAD Scholarship application process 2025: step-by-step guide

The application process for the DAAD Scholarship can seem daunting to many. Do not worry since we share all the steps. The following guide provides a detailed overview:

• Research and Choose a Program

The first step is to identify the DAAD scholarship and study program that suits your requirements. 

The DAAD website has a comprehensive database of all available programs and their requirements. We mention a few that offer funding for various levels from undergraduate to PhD research:

• Heinrich Böll Foundation scholarship
• Konrad-Adenauer Foundation scholarship
• Friedrich-Ebert scholarship
• Graduate School Scholarship Programme 
• Re-invitation Programme for Former Scholarship Holders

• Check Eligibility

Carefully review the eligibility criteria for your chosen program. Ensure you meet all the requirements before proceeding.

• Create a Profile

Register on the DAAD portal and create a new profile. You need to enter a valid email address and enter the verification code you receive via email. 

Complete your profile with your first name, surname, title, password, preferred language, and Data Privacy Statement. 

• Upload the Required Documents

Next, you have to submit the following documents: 

• Completed DAAD application form (available online)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Letter of Motivation
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates
• Proof of language proficiency including IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, DSH
• Letters of recommendation from university professors
• Research proposal for PhD applicants
• Proof of professional experience if required. 

• Apply to German Universities

You have to apply separately to your chosen German university. Check the university’s admission requirements and deadlines from individual websites and send online applications. You can also apply through the centralized admissions portal, uni-assist.de 

• Wait for Notification

You must wait for the selection committee to review the scholarship application. This process can take several months. You will be notified via email whether your application is successful.

DAAD scholarship benefits 2025: Financial aid, travel & more

DAAD scholarships offer a range of financial and academic benefits.  Overall the scholarships make studying in Germany more affordable for international students.

In this section, we look at the key benefits of DAAD scholarships:

Monthly Stipend

DAAD scholars receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses. The stipend amount varies based on the level of study:

• Master’s Students: €934 per month
• PhD Candidates: €1,200 per month
• Postdoctoral Researchers: Up to €2,400 per month

This is for covering living expenses such as food, accommodation, transportation, and study materials.

Tuition Fees

DAAD scholarships cover tuition fees for the entire program. There is a complete tuition fee waiver regardless of course and domain. It is a scholarship that shows no bias towards STEM courses. 

Travel Allowance

DAAD scholarships have a generous travel grant for domestic and international travel. It covers round-trip airfare from the home country to Germany. In addition, it offers full fares for exchange programs, conferences, or study-related trips. 

Health, Accident & Liability Insurance Coverage

DAAD scholarship includes comprehensive health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage. This means the recipients are completely insured against medical expenses. Since the cost of international health insurance is very high this is a huge relief for students from India. 

Besides, you also get insurance for accidents and liabilities while studying in Germany. 

Funding for German Language Courses

If you study German at a recognised institute then the DAAD scholarship will cover the cost. Of course, this has to happen before the start of the academic program. 

Other Benefits 

DAAD scholars might receive funding for accompanying family members and have access to the DAAD alumni network. This opens doors to numerous career opportunities and research collaborations.

All things considered, the DAAD Scholarship is one of the most generous scholarships for international students. Germany seeks the best talent and the DAAD scholarship helps nurture the same. 

Also Read: 10 Best Scholarships for Master for Indian Students

Tips for a successful DAAD Scholarship application

We have told you all the details about various DAAD scholarships and their benefits. But how do you ensure that you are successful? We offer practical advice, do’s and don’ts, and expert recommendations:

• Display Academic Strength

Your academic record is the foundation of your application. DAAD scholarships are competitive and you must demonstrate academic achievement through high school and college. It is a must to maintain a GPA of 9/10 throughout your undergraduate studies. In the application don’t be shy about highlighting any academic award you have received. 

• Write a Strong Motivation Letter

You have to write a strong Letter of Motivation. Consider this as your pitch to DAAD, so make it count. Clearly state why you’re applying for a DAAD scholarship and why you’ve chosen your particular field of study. Go beyond generic statements; be specific about why you want to study in Germany. Detail how your academic goals align perfectly with the focus of the chosen program in Germany. 

• Choose the Right Program and University

Don’t just pick any program; do your homework. Thoroughly explore the courses offered by German universities. Unlike other scholarships where you apply after admission, you have to apply to DAAD and German universities at the same time. Identify programs that match your academic interests and career aspirations. Also, since there are numerous DAAD scholarships, ensure you apply to the right ones. 

• Demonstrate Language Proficiency

Language proficiency is a critical gatekeeper for studying in Germany. Few of the courses are in English. You must be fluent in German, otherwise you will not be eligible for university and hence DAAD scholarships. Accepted certificates include TestDaF and DSH for German. You would need at least a year to score B1 level so start learning as an undergraduate. 

• Secure Excellent Recommendations

Reference letters add credibility to your applications. Request your professors to provide recommendations. They can speak about your strengths and potential. Choose those who can genuinely attest to your skills and will put in the effort to write a letter. 

• Showcase Extracurricular Engagement

Scholarship committees look for more than just academic brilliance. You must demonstrate that you are a well-rounded individual. Write about the various extracurricular activities and projects you have done. Participating in research projects, and internships are particularly impressive. 

• Plan and Submit Carefully

The application process can be demanding. Therefore strategic planning is key. Start early and give yourself enough time to gather all the necessary documents. These can include transcripts, certificates, and essays. Rushing the application is a recipe for errors. Thoroughly check the accuracy of any information you provide before submitting. Meticulously follow all the application guidelines provided by the DAAD website.

• Highlight Your Home Country Impact

DAAD scholarships are geared towards fostering development. Therefore, you must clearly explain how your studies in Germany will contribute to positive change and development in your home country. Connect your academic interests to issues and challenges in India and clearly state how the knowledge you gain in Germany will equip you to be part of the solution. 

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Also Read: Scholarship to Study Abroad for Indian Students: A Complete Guide

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