Study in Germany for free with DAAD’s 2026 master’s program. Applications open now
Germany remains a top destination for international students seeking high-quality education and global exposure. The DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship offers a unique, fully funded opportunity to pursue a master’s degree at leading German universities. Applications are currently open, and this guide covers everything you need to know to maximize your chances of success.
Why Choose the DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship?
- Fully Funded: Covers tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, travel, and more.
- Prestigious Institutions: Study at top-ranked German universities.
- Global Networking: Connect with scholars from around the world.
- Career Advancement: Enhance your academic and professional trajectory with a German degree.
Financial Benefits
The DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly stipend: €934 for master’s students
- Travel allowance: Round-trip airfare
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Monthly rent subsidy
- Allowance for accompanying family members (if applicable)
- Study and research subsidy
- 6-month German language course (if needed)
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility criteria for the DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship include:
- International students from developing and emerging countries (see the DAC list for specifics)
- Bachelor’s degree with above-average grades (typically top third of your class)
- Relevant professional or practical experience (internships, voluntary service, or community engagement)
- Commitment to development in your home country
- English or German language proficiency (requirements vary by program)
Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your application:
- Completed DAAD application form
- Motivation letter (for one or two selected programs)
- Curriculum vitae (Europass format)
- Academic degree certificates and transcripts (with certified translations if not in English or German)
- Proof of relevant work experience or civic engagement
- Proof of English or German language proficiency
- Reference letter (from employer or academic supervisor)
- Signed checklist and list of criteria
- APS Certificate (for applicants from China)
Application Process
Follow these steps to apply for the DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship:
- Review the selection criteria and eligible master’s programs at German universities.
- Register on the DAAD portal during the application period (June–July 31, 2025).
- Complete the application form and upload all required documents in PDF format.
- Submit a single motivation letter if applying for up to two programs, ranking your preferences.
- Request a recommendation form via the DAAD portal and have it completed by a university teacher.
- Submit your application online before the deadline (July 31, 2025).
Note: Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications will be disqualified. All documents must be in English or German.
Selection Timeline
- Application Period: June 1 – July 31, 2025
- Selection Process: October/November 2025
- Final Decision: December 2025/January 2026
- Start of Studies: September/October 2026
Top Participating Universities
Some of the renowned institutions participating in the DAAD scholarship program include:
- University of Heidelberg
- Technical University of Munich (TUM)
- Humboldt University of Berlin
- University of Freiburg
- RWTH Aachen University
Popular DAAD Scholarship Programs
The DAAD offers several scholarship tracks, including:
- Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)
- EPOS Scholarship (development-oriented postgraduate studies)
- General Master’s Scholarships (all academic disciplines)
Each program has specific eligibility and application requirements, so review the details on the DAAD website and the participating university’s page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is there an age limit for the DAAD Master’s Scholarship?
A: There is no age limit for most DAAD scholarships.
Q: Do I need to pay an application fee?
A: No, there is no application fee for the DAAD 2026 Master’s Scholarship.
Q: Can I apply for more than one program?
A: Yes, you may apply for up to two eligible master’s programs, but you must rank them in your motivation letter
