In this guide you will find the 10 best scholarships to study in Germany in 2026, with detailed information on amounts, requirements, dates and application processes.
#1 DAAD Scholarships – The most comprehensive program for international students
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the leading scholarship organization for international students in Germany. Each year it funds over 145,000 scholarship recipients from around the world, offering a wide range of programs tailored to your academic level and field of study.
What does the DAAD scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend (master’s degree) | €934 |
| Monthly stipend (doctorate) | €1,200 |
| Health insurance | Complete |
| International travel | Round trip |
| Research Funding | Yeah |
| Accommodation assistance | In special cases |
The DAAD offers different types of scholarships depending on your situation. Some programs are specifically designed for postgraduate studies, others for research, and there are special options for certain regions and fields of study. Importantly, the coverage is comprehensive, allowing you to meet the financial requirements of your student visa without any problems.
Requirements to apply
You need a letter of admission or pre-admission from a recognized German university. Your academic record must be outstanding, and depending on the program, at least two years of prior professional experience may be required. Language proficiency is essential: some programs require German at a B2-C1 level, while others accept English with certifications such as TOEFL or IELTS.
Your motivation letter is one of the most important elements of your application. It should clearly explain why you want to study in Germany, how your academic project will contribute to your field, and what you plan to do after graduation. Letters of recommendation should come from professors or employers who are familiar with your work.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| Opening of calls for proposals | August |
| Closing applications | October – November |
⚠️ Important note: Dates vary depending on the specific program. Always check the official DAAD website to confirm the exact deadlines for the program you are interested in.
The selection process can take several months, so you should start preparing your application at least 12 months before your planned start date of studies.
#2 Erasmus Mundus Scholarships – Study in multiple European countries
Erasmus Mundus is a European Union program that funds joint master’s degrees offered by consortia of European universities. Many of Germany’s top universities participate in these programs, allowing you to study in Germany and other countries during your master’s degree.
What does the Erasmus Mundus grant cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Complete |
| Monthly stipend | Up to €1,000 |
| International travel | Included |
| Health insurance | Yeah |
| Mobility between countries | Funded |
The unique aspect of Erasmus Mundus is that you will study in two or three different countries during your master’s program. This allows you to experience different education systems, build an international network of contacts, and gain a unique multicultural perspective in your field of study.
Main requirements
You must hold a degree related to the master’s program you are applying to, with an outstanding academic record. Most Erasmus Mundus programs are taught in English, so you will need to certify your level with a TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent certification. Each program has specific requirements, so it is essential to review the details of the university consortium you are interested in.
Application dates
| Period | Approximate date |
|---|---|
| Opening of calls for proposals | October – December |
| Closing applications | January – March |
⚠️ Important note: Each Erasmus Mundus program has its own dates. Consult the official catalogue and the specific consortium’s website for exact dates.
#3 Heinrich Böll Foundation – For students committed to sustainability
The Heinrich Böll Foundation, affiliated with the German Green Party, funds students interested in sustainability, human rights, and social justice. It is not just a financial scholarship; it is a community of fellows committed to making positive changes in the world.
What does the Heinrich Böll scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend (master’s degree) | €850 – €934 |
| Monthly stipend (doctorate) | €1,200 – €1,350 |
| Health subsidy | Including |
| Study materials | Additional allocation |
| Seminars and workshops | Full access |
In addition to financial support, the foundation organizes seminars, workshops, and events where you can connect with other scholarship recipients, academics, and professionals working on sustainability and social innovation.
Profile of the ideal candidate
The foundation seeks students with a proven track record of social or environmental commitment. This may include volunteer work, involvement in NGOs, community projects, or research on sustainability-related topics. Your academic excellence must be accompanied by a genuine interest in contributing to social change.
The required German level is at least B2. Although some master’s programs are taught in English, the foundation organizes activities in German and aims to ensure that its scholarship recipients fully integrate into German society.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| Opening of calls for proposals | March |
| Closing applications | September |
⚠️ Important note: Always check the official page to confirm the exact dates of each call for applications.
#4 Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships – Training for future leaders
The Konrad Adenauer Foundation, linked to the Christian Democratic Union, seeks to develop leaders committed to democracy and social development. If you are interested in politics, economics, or social sciences, and are looking to develop your leadership potential, this scholarship is ideal.
What does the KAS scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | Up to €1,200 |
| Health insurance | Complete |
| Research projects | Additional financing |
| International events | Access and networking |
The foundation not only funds your studies, but also integrates you into a global network of leaders and experts. You’ll have access to international conferences, specialized seminars, and mentoring opportunities that can be pivotal for your professional career.
Key requirements
You must have confirmed admission to a German university and demonstrate a genuine commitment to political, social, or development issues. The foundation particularly values prior leadership experience, whether in student organizations, community projects, or political work.
A B2 level of German is the minimum requirement, and the age limit is 35 years at the time of application. Your cover letter should demonstrate how your values align with the Christian Democratic principles of the foundation.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| Opening of calls for proposals | June |
| Closing applications | October |
Important note: Dates may vary. Please check the official website for updated information.
#5 Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships – Focus on Social Justice
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation, associated with the Social Democratic Party, funds students committed to social justice, democracy, and solidarity. It is especially relevant for those studying social sciences, law, economics, or the humanities.
What does the FES scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | €992 |
| Health subsidy | Including |
| Study materials | Additional allocation |
| Family allowance | For scholarship recipients with children |
The stipend amount is calculated to meet the financial requirements of the student visa, which greatly simplifies the immigration process. If you have children, the additional family allowance is a significant benefit that few scholarships offer.
Specific requirements
Social commitment is fundamental to this scholarship. The foundation seeks students with demonstrable experience in community work, social projects, or political participation aligned with social democratic values. Your academic record must be excellent, and a C1 level of German is a strict requirement.
This language requirement is more demanding than other scholarships because the foundation organizes numerous activities, seminars, and discussion forums in German. The idea is for you to actively participate in the scholarship community and contribute to the dialogue on social and political issues.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| Calls for proposals | Open all year round with specific dates by region |
⚠️ Important note: Dates vary depending on your country of origin. Please check the official website and contact the FES office in your region, if one exists.
#6 Deutschlandstipendium – The most accessible scholarship if you are already in Germany
The Deutschlandstipendium is a national program administered by individual German universities. Unlike other scholarships, you can apply after enrolling at a German university, making it particularly accessible.
What does the Deutschlandstipendium cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | €300 |
| Duration | Minimum 2 semesters |
| Additional requirements | None |
Although the amount is lower than other scholarships, the Deutschlandstipendium has significant advantages. The application process is simpler, there are no nationality restrictions, and you can combine it with part-time work or even other sources of funding in some cases.
Half of the money comes from public funds and the other half from private sponsors. This also gives you access to events organized by the sponsors, which can open doors to internships or employment after graduation.
Requirements and process
Each university sets its own selection criteria, but they are generally based on academic performance, social commitment, and personal achievements. You don’t need to have already been accepted; you can apply once you are already studying in Germany.
The process is handled directly through your university’s scholarship office. You should keep an eye out for internal announcements, which are usually published on the institution’s website.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| It varies by university. | Generally June – September |
⚠️ Important note: Each university manages its own dates. Please consult your institution’s international relations or scholarship office.
#7 Rosa Luxemburg Foundation Scholarships – Commitment to social and political justice
The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, linked to the Die Linke (The Left) party, funds students with outstanding academic performance and commitment to social justice issues, especially from countries in the Global South.
What does the Rosa Luxemburg scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend (master’s degree) | €934 |
| Monthly stipend (doctorate) | €1,350 |
| Health subsidy | €20 extra |
| Study materials | Including |
The foundation gives preference to applications from women, students from non-academic backgrounds, migrants, and people with disabilities who demonstrate comparable achievements and social commitment. There are specific programs for students from Egypt, Libya, Lebanon, Tunisia, Yemen, Jordan, Morocco, and Iraq.
Candidate profile
The foundation seeks students committed to left-wing democratic values: social justice, equality, human rights, and social transformation. You must have a history of involvement in social movements, political organizations, community work, or critical research.
A B2 level of German is the minimum requirement. Although some master’s programs are taught in English, you will need German to participate in the foundation’s seminars and activities.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| Calls for applications per year | April 1st and October 1st |
⚠️ Important note: Always check the official page to confirm exact dates.
#8 Scholarships from the Technical University of Munich (TUM) – For Engineering and Technology
The Technical University of Munich is one of Germany’s most prestigious universities, particularly in engineering, technology, and science. It offers several scholarship programs for international students with excellent academic performance.
What does the TUM scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Grant per semester | Variable depending on need |
| Tuition | Exempt or reduced |
| Requirements | Good academic performance |
TUM scholarships vary in amount and may be based on academic merit or financial need. The university does not charge tuition to international students in regular programs, but there may be semester administrative fees.
Requirements and process
You must be enrolled or admitted to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral program at TUM. Academic performance is the primary criterion, although some scholarships also consider the student’s financial situation.
The application process is handled directly through TUM once you have been admitted. It is important to contact the university’s scholarship office to learn about the options available for your specific program.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| It varies by program. | Consult with the university |
⚠️ Important note: Dates depend on the specific program. Contact the TUM scholarship office.
#9 SIST LMU Munich Scholarships – Funding based on financial need
The SIST (Special Initiative for Student Support) program at Ludwig-Maximilian University of Munich offers scholarships based on academic excellence and financial need for international students.
What does the SIST LMU scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Based on need | Variable |
| Duration | Per semester |
| Criteria | Academic performance + need |
The SIST program is funded by the Federal State of Bavaria and seeks to support talented students who, without this funding, would not be able to complete their studies at LMU Munich.
Requirements
You must be enrolled in a regular full-time program (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctoral) at LMU. Criteria include excellent academic performance, strong knowledge in your field of study, and demonstration of genuine financial need.
The process requires detailed documentation of your financial situation, as well as letters of recommendation and academic certificates that demonstrate your potential.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| It varies by semester. | Consult with LMU |
⚠️ Important note: Contact the LMU scholarship office for specific dates.
#10 KAAD Scholarships – For Catholic students from developing countries
The KAAD (German Catholic Academic Exchange Service) is a foundation of the German Catholic Church that funds postgraduate students and Christian researchers from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Near and Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
What does the KAAD scholarship cover?
| Concept | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend (master’s degree) | €992 |
| Monthly stipend (doctorate) | €1,200 |
| Visa procedures | Included |
| Airline tickets | Round trip |
| German courses | Funded |
| Health insurance | Complete |
The KAAD offers comprehensive coverage that includes aspects that other scholarships do not consider, such as visa costs and intensive German language training programs before starting your studies.
Specific requirements
You must be a Catholic Christian or a member of a Christian denomination, originally from one of the regions mentioned, and have relevant work experience. KAAD gives preference to courses related to development, although you can apply to any academic program.
The application process is handled through partner committees in your region. Although the application portal is online, you will need local support from Catholic organizations or educational institutions that work with KAAD.
Application dates
| Period | Date |
|---|---|
| It varies by region. | Consult local office |
⚠️ Important note: Contact the KAAD office in your country or region for specific dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to know German to get a scholarship?
Not always. Many scholarships, especially for master’s programs taught in English, accept English language certifications such as TOEFL or IELTS. However, several of the best scholarships (such as those from the 13 foundations) do require German at a B2 or C1 level. Even if it’s not mandatory, knowing German can give you an advantage in the selection process.
Do the scholarships cover the cost of living in Germany?
Full scholarships such as those from the DAAD, Heinrich Böll, or Friedrich Ebert offer monthly stipends specifically designed to cover living expenses. Typical amounts (€850-€1,200) are sufficient to meet the financial requirements of a student visa and live comfortably, although you should be mindful of your budget, especially in expensive cities like Munich.
Which German universities have the most scholarships available?
Larger, more prestigious universities tend to offer more funding options. These include the Technical University of Munich (TUM), Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), Free University of Berlin, Humboldt University of Berlin, and Heidelberg University. However, scholarship availability depends more on your field of study and academic profile than on the specific university.
