Germany has established itself as one of the most popular study destinations in Europe. German graduates are highly sought after worldwide, particularly in engineering, automotive, and business sectors. Germany is also home to top-tier universities that consistently rank high in major global university ranking tables, offering tuition-free education at public institutions.
Recognizing the need for global talent and cultural exchange, the German government and various organizations offer numerous scholarships for international students. While tuition is often free, these scholarships provide crucial financial support for living expenses, helping students overcome the "Blocked Account" requirement.
Important Note on Tuition Fees: While most public universities in Germany remain tuition-free for international students (requiring only a semester contribution of €150-€350), the state of Bavaria (home to top universities like TUM and LMU) has recently introduced tuition fees for non-EU students. Always check the specific university website for the latest costs.
Register for Updates About Scholarships for 2026
Register on Global Admissions for monthly updates about scholarships here.Register for Scholarship Updates
Also make sure to check out our Instagram and YouTube for more updates.
How Much Are German Scholarships Worth?
Since most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees (only a small semester contribution), scholarships in Germany usually focus on covering living expenses. Scholarships can include:
- Monthly living allowances ranging from €850 to €1,350 per month
- Full tuition coverage for programs at private universities
- Health insurance coverage
- Travel allowances (one-time or annual)
- German language course funding
- Study and research materials allowance
The total value can exceed €20,000-€30,000 per year for fully-funded scholarships
How Scholarships Work in Germany
Before you apply, it is important to understand that the German system is different from the US or UK.
Because public education is already heavily subsidized (nearly free), universities rarely hand out massive checks to cover everything. The system is designed so that the state covers your tuition, and you cover your living costs.
There are over 3,000 scholarship programs, but they are competitive. You cannot just "show up" and get one, you need a strategy.
Types of Scholarships in Germany in 2026
DAAD Scholarships – The Gold Standard of German Scholarships
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world's largest funding organization for international academic exchange. DAAD scholarships are considered the most prestigious and comprehensive German scholarships available to international students.
DAAD offers multiple scholarship programs tailored to different academic levels and fields of study:
DAAD Study Scholarships for Graduate Students
For Master's and PhD candidates in all disciplines. Provides monthly stipend of €992 (Master's) or €1,300 (PhD), health insurance, travel allowance, and study/research allowance.
DAAD EPOS Scholarships
Development-Related Postgraduate Courses for professionals from developing countries. Covers tuition fees, monthly allowance, insurance, and travel costs.
DAAD Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates
For PhD students conducting research in Germany. Duration of 7-10 months with monthly allowance of €1,300.
DAAD Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
For future leaders from developing countries. Fully-funded Master's programs with comprehensive support package.
NOTE: The official DAAD website is: www.daad.de. Be cautious of unofficial websites claiming to help with applications.
There are over 300 German universities where you can use DAAD scholarships. You can find the complete list on the DAAD website.
Erasmus+ Scholarships
Erasmus+ is the European Union's program supporting education, training, youth and sport. It offers fantastic opportunities for international students to study in Germany through joint Master's programs and individual mobility schemes.
Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees
These are integrated international study programs delivered by consortia of European universities. Many include German institutions as partners. Scholarships cover tuition, living costs, travel, and insurance for the entire program duration (1-2 years).
Monthly allowance: €1,400 per month plus €4,000 travel costs
You can explore Erasmus+ programs with German universities on the official Erasmus+ website.
German University Scholarships
Many German universities offer their own scholarship programs specifically designed for international students. These scholarships are often easier to obtain than national scholarships and can cover partial or full costs.
University scholarships are typically awarded based on:
- Academic excellence and high grades
- Early application submission
- Relevant work or research experience
- Strong motivation letters and recommendations
- Exceptional extracurricular activities or leadership
Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
The Deutschlandstipendium is a unique public-private partnership. The scholarship amounts to €300 per month. Half comes from the German government, and the other half from private sponsors (companies, foundations, or alumni).
- This scholarship is awarded by the universities themselves.
- It is merit-based: you need high grades.
- It is awarded irrespective of personal or parent income.
Most universities in Germany participate in this program. You usually apply for this after you have been admitted or enrolled at the university.
German Political Foundation Scholarships
Germany has 13 political foundations that offer scholarships to international students who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also strong political and social engagement. These scholarships are highly competitive but offer generous funding packages.
Major Political Foundations:
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) – Associated with CDU, focuses on democracy, social market economy, and human rights. Provides monthly allowance up to €1,350 for PhD students.
- Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) – Linked to SPD, supports students committed to social democracy and social justice. Monthly stipend of €992 for Master's students.
- Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung – Green Party affiliated, focuses on ecology, democracy, and human rights. Comprehensive funding package for international students.
- Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung – Linked to Die Linke, supports students interested in democratic socialism and social movements.
- Friedrich-Naumann-Stiftung – FDP-related, focuses on liberal values and individual freedom. These foundations offer more than just money – they provide networking opportunities, seminars, workshops, and access to a community of scholars and professionals.
State-Specific Scholarships
Several German states (Bundesländer) offer their own scholarship programs to attract international talent:
- Baden-Württemberg Scholarship – For students from developing countries Bavarian State Scholarship – Various programs for international students
- NRW Scholarship Program – North Rhine-Westphalia state funding
- Berlin State Scholarships – For students studying in the capital
Research Organization Scholarships
Germany is home to world-leading research organizations that offer fellowships and scholarships for international researchers and doctoral candidates.
- Max Planck Society Scholarships: The Max Planck Society operates 86 research institutes across Germany. They offer doctoral positions with competitive salaries (€2,000-€2,500/month) and excellent research facilities.
- Helmholtz Association: Offers doctoral and postdoctoral positions in science, technology, and medicine with full funding packages.
- Fraunhofer Society: Focuses on applied research and offers scholarships for international students in engineering and technology fields.
- Alexander von Humboldt Foundation: Provides postdoctoral fellowships for experienced researchers from abroad. Highly competitive but offers €2,670-€3,170 per month plus additional allowances.
Private and Corporate Scholarships
German companies and private organizations offer scholarships to international students, particularly in STEM fields and business.
These include:
- Siemens Scholarship – For engineering students
- Bayer Foundation Scholarships – Life sciences and chemistry
- Volkswagen Foundation – Various academic disciplines
- Robert Bosch Foundation – Social sciences and humanities
- German Business Foundations – For MBA and business students
Have a look at our comprehensive list of scholarships in Germany here, including all private and corporate opportunities.
6 Tips to Successfully Apply for German Scholarships
1) Start Early and Apply to Multiple Opportunities – Application deadlines for German scholarships are strict. DAAD scholarships typically have deadlines in October-November for the following academic year. University scholarships may have rolling admissions. Apply to at least 5-10 different scholarship opportunities to maximize your chances. Competition is fierce, with acceptance rates often below 5% for prestigious scholarships.
2) Perfect Your Application Documents – German scholarship applications require meticulous attention to detail. Ensure all documents are:
- Properly translated and notarized if required
- Formatted according to specific guidelines
- Free of errors and professionally presented
- Submitted before the deadline (late applications are rarely accepted)
3) Write a Compelling Motivation Letter – Your motivation letter is crucial. It should clearly explain:
- Why you want to study in Germany specifically
- How your background and goals align with the program
- What you will contribute to the university and your field
- Your future plans and how the scholarship will help achieve them
4) Learn German (Even If Not Required) – While many Master's programs are offered in English, demonstrating German language skills (even basic A1-A2 level) significantly strengthens your application. It shows commitment to integrating into German society and culture. Many scholarships, especially DAAD, provide additional funding for German language courses before your program starts.
5) Build Strong Academic and Professional Credentials – Scholarships favor candidates with:
- High GPA (typically 3.5+ or equivalent)
- Relevant work or research experience
- Publications, conference presentations, or academic awards
- Leadership roles and volunteer activities
- Strong recommendation letters from professors or employers
6) Network and Seek Guidance – Connect with:
- DAAD offices or information centers in your country
- Current scholarship recipients (many share their experiences online)
- University international offices
- Alumni from your country who studied in Germany
Preparing Application Documents
Preparing the required documents is crucial for German scholarship applications. Requirements vary by scholarship type, but commonly include:
Basic Requirements:
- Certified and translated copies of all academic certificates and transcripts
- Detailed CV in Europass format (preferred for many scholarships)
- Motivation letter (typically 1-2 pages)
- Research proposal (for PhD and research scholarships, 5-10 pages)
- Two recommendation letters from professors or supervisors
- Language proficiency certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or Goethe certificates)
- Valid passport copy
- University admission letter or proof of application (depending on scholarship type)
Additional Requirements:
- Some scholarships may require:
- Proof of work experience or publications
- Essays on specific topics or statements on social engagement
- Portfolio (for arts and design programs)
- Interview participation (in-person or online)
Scholarship Agents & "Guaranteed Scholarships" Warning
Be extremely cautious about agents or services claiming to offer "guaranteed scholarships" in Germany for fees ranging from $500-$5,000 USD. These services are prevalent on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and other social media platforms.
No one can guarantee you a scholarship. Scholarship decisions are made by universities, DAAD, and funding organizations based on merit and qualifications. Any service claiming to guarantee results is likely fraudulent.
Global Admissions does NOT offer guaranteed scholarships. You cannot buy a scholarship through us, and we do not recommend using scholarship agents.
We believe in transparency. All information about German scholarships is publicly available, and we do our best to compile and share it on our platform so you can apply independently and save money.
We can help you apply for university admissions as part of our general services. You can learn more about our application services here.
Scholarships Around the World
You can also explore scholarships around the world on Global Admissions, and check out 57 universities that have ZERO tuition fees here.
Good luck with your scholarship applications! Germany offers incredible opportunities for international students, and with proper preparation and persistence, you can achieve your dream of studying in one of Europe's most dynamic countries.
