Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organization, supporting over 100,000 German and international students and researchers annually. DAAD offers a variety of scholarships to international students, graduates, doctoral candidates, and postdoctoral researchers aiming to study or conduct research in Germany. These scholarships are designed to support academic pursuits across a wide range of disciplines and are awarded for study and research visits to universities and non-university research institutions in Germany. www.daad.de
Levels of Study:
- Graduates: Opportunities for those seeking to pursue a master’s degree in Germany.
- Doctoral Students: Funding for individuals aiming to undertake PhD studies or research projects.
- Postdoctoral Researchers: Support for advanced research endeavors post-PhD.
Fields of Study: DAAD scholarships encompass a broad spectrum of academic disciplines. While many programs are open to all fields, certain scholarships are tailored to specific areas:
- STEM Disciplines: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
- Development-Related Fields: Programs like the “Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)” focus on disciplines that contribute to sustainable development.
- Arts and Music: Dedicated scholarships for postgraduate studies in fields such as architecture and music.
Language Proficiency Requirements: Language requirements vary depending on the chosen program:
- German-Taught Programs: Proficiency in German is typically required.
- English-Taught Programs: Applicants may need to demonstrate proficiency in English, often through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
Specific score requirements depend on the program and the institution. Applicants should consult the detailed call for applications for their chosen scholarship program in the DAAD Scholarship Database for precise information.
Application Deadlines: Deadlines vary by program and applicant origin. It’s crucial to check the specific deadlines for each scholarship in the DAAD Scholarship Database.
Application Process:
- Identify Suitable Scholarships: Utilize the DAAD Scholarship Database to find programs that align with your academic goals.
- Review Application Requirements: Carefully read the call for applications for your chosen program, noting eligibility criteria, required documents, and deadlines.
- Prepare Application Materials: Gather necessary documents, which may include academic transcripts, language certificates, a CV, a motivation letter, and research proposals.
- Submit Application: Applications are typically submitted through the DAAD portal or as specified in the program’s guidelines.
Scholarship Benefits:
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- Monthly stipend: €992 for students and €1,300 for doctoral candidates.
- Travel allowance.
- Health, accident, and liability insurance.
- Potential additional benefits: research allowance, family support, and language course funding.
Application Guidance:
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- Detailed criteria are provided in the scholarship database under the “Selection” tab and Important Scholarship Information for Scholarship Applicants (point E.3).
Notable Points:
- Generous Funding: Scholarships do not require repayment.
- Focus on Development: Many programs support students from developing and emerging regions.
- Inclusive Opportunities: Tailored support for at-risk candidates and in-region scholars.
Associated Web Links:
- DAAD Scholarships Overview: https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/daad-scholarships/
- DAAD Scholarship Database: https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/
- Important Information for Scholarship Applicants: https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/information-for-scholarship-applicants/
For comprehensive details, including specific eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines, please refer to the DAAD Scholarship Database.
