DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 in Germany – Fully Funded Study Opportunity for International Students 

DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 in Germany: Overview

The DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship Programme offers outstanding international students the opportunity to pursue a Master’s or postgraduate degree at a recognized German university. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, this initiative supports talented individuals aiming to enhance their academic and professional careers while gaining international exposure in Germany.

DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 in Germany: Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Hold a first degree (Bachelor’s or equivalent) by the start of the funding period.

• Have completed their degree not more than six years before the application deadline.

• Demonstrate strong academic performance with at least 80 percent or equivalent in their Bachelor’s degree.

• Provide proof of language proficiency in either German or English, depending on the language of instruction.

• Not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months before the application deadline.

Note: Special DAAD scholarships exist for applicants from artistic fields such as Architecture, Fine Art, Performing Art, Design, Film, and Music.

DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 in Germany: Benefits

Selected scholars receive:

• A monthly stipend of 992 euros.

• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage.

• Travel allowance to and from Germany.

• Annual study allowance of 460 euros.

• Possible rent subsidies and family allowances.

• Language preparation support, including funded online and in-person German courses before and during studies.

• Reimbursement for language tests like TestDaF or DSH.

Programme Duration

The scholarship duration ranges from 10 to 24 months, depending on the length of the chosen study programme. Funding usually starts in October 2026, or earlier if a German language course is required before studies.

Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed by an independent academic committee based on:

• Academic excellence and relevant qualifications.

• Quality of study proposal, clarity of goals, and alignment with career plans.

• Motivation and personal potential for contributing to academic, professional, and social development.

• Extracurricular involvement or social engagement.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Completed online application form on the DAAD portal.

• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in tabular form (maximum three pages).

• Motivation letter (1–3 pages) outlining academic and personal reasons for studying in Germany.

• University transcripts and certificates with individual grades.

• Proof of language proficiency (TestDaF, IELTS, TOEFL, etc.).

• Letter of recommendation from a university professor.

• Valid identification document (passport or national ID).

• Optional supporting documents, such as proof of employment or extracurricular achievements.

All documents must be uploaded to the DAAD portal in English or German translations.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted online through the DAAD portal between June and 3 September 2025.

• Selection Date: February 2026

• Funding Start: Winter Semester 2026/27

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants are strongly advised to apply early to avoid technical delays before the portal closes at midnight CET on the deadline date.

For more information and application: 

Visit the official website of the DAAD Postgraduate Scholarship 2026 in Germany – Fully Funded Study Opportunity for International Students