In this article, I’m going to tell you everything you need to know to apply in 2026: from what the DAAD is, to how much money you’ll receive per month, what requirements you must meet, and how to increase your chances of being selected.
What are DAAD scholarships and why are they so popular among Latino students?
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, or German Academic Exchange Service) is the world’s largest academic funding organization. Founded in 1925, it has funded more than 2.5 million students and researchers from every continent. Its annual budget exceeds €500 million, primarily funded by the German government and the European Union.
What makes the DAAD special is its commitment to diversity and global development. Unlike other scholarships that prioritize certain countries, DAAD scholarships are specifically designed to support students from developing countries and emerging economies, which includes virtually all of Latin America.
Why is the DAAD your best option for studying in Germany?
First, let’s talk numbers. The DAAD funds over 145,000 people annually, including students, researchers, and professors. This isn’t a small scholarship or one limited to a lucky few: it’s a massive, well-established program that genuinely aims to attract international talent to Germany.
Second, the DAAD has a global presence. With over 20 regional offices and 38 information centers in approximately 50 countries, there’s a good chance you have a DAAD office near you. This means you can receive free, personalized advice on your application, which is invaluable when navigating international admissions processes.
Third, and this is crucial: the DAAD offers more than 100 different scholarship programs. This means there are options for virtually any profile: from undergraduate students who want to take a summer course, to postdoctoral researchers seeking funding for advanced research projects.
Read Also: Top 5 Fully Funded Scholarships in Ireland for International Students
Can I apply from Peru, Mexico, or any Latin American country?
Absolutely! DAAD scholarships have a particularly strong focus on Latin America. Eligible countries include:
| Central America and the Caribbean | South America |
|---|---|
| Costa Rica | Argentina |
| Cuba | Bolivia |
| Dominican Republic | Brazil |
| El Salvador | Colombia |
| Guatemala | Ecuador |
| Honduras | Paraguay |
| Mexico | Peru |
| Nicaragua | Venezuela |
| Panama |
Nationality is not an obstacle. In fact, many of the DAAD’s most popular scholarships are specifically aimed at students from these countries, recognizing the potential and talent that exists in the region.
What financial benefits do DAAD Germany scholarships include?
This is where DAAD scholarships truly shine. We’re not talking about partial or symbolic support: DAAD scholarships are full and generous grants that cover virtually all your expenses in Germany. Let me break down exactly what you’ll receive if you win a DAAD scholarship.
| Benefit | Mastery | Doctorate | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | 934 EUR | 1,300 EUR | To cover accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses |
| Travel expenses | Included | Included | Round-trip flights between your country and Germany |
| Health insurance | Included | Included | Comprehensive health insurance (value: ~110 EUR/month) |
| Family allowance | If applicable | If applicable | Only for programs +6 months: subsidy for spouse and children |
| Rent subsidy | Depending on the case | Depending on the case | In expensive cities, additional housing support |
| Tuition fees | Up to 500 EUR/semester | Up to 500 EUR/semester | Contribution to university administrative fees |
| Disability support | Available | Available | Additional benefits for people with special needs |
| Duration | 12-24 months | Up to 42 months | Funding throughout the program |
This money is to cover your living expenses: accommodation, food, transportation, study materials, and personal expenses. And here’s an important fact:Â 934 euros per month is enough to live comfortably in Germany as a student. You won’t be living in luxury, but you won’t be struggling either. The cost of living for students in Germany is around 800-900 euros per month, so the stipend is perfectly calculated.
Important information about family benefits:Â These benefits only apply to programs longer than 6 months. If your scholarship is for a short course or summer program, you will not have access to these additional subsidies.
What are the requirements to apply for DAAD scholarships in 2026?
The DAAD requirements are clear and specific. If you have completed your university studies with good grades and have some professional experience, you probably already meet most of the criteria.
Can I apply for DAAD scholarships for undergraduate studies or only for master’s degrees?
The DAAD does not offer scholarships for full undergraduate programs. Most DAAD scholarships focus on master’s degrees, doctorates, research stays, and summer courses or internships for advanced undergraduate students.
If you are an undergraduate student, the DAAD offers programs like RISE Germany that allow you to do research internships during the summer in science and engineering.
Main requirements in summary
Do I need to know German to apply for DAAD scholarships?
Not necessarily. It all depends on the program’s language.
For programs in English:
- IELTS with a minimum band of 6.0
- TOEFL with a minimum score of 80 (Internet), 213 (computer) or 550 (paper)
- The institutional TOEFL is NOT accepted
For programs in German:
- Minimum level of B1 in German at the time of application
- You must pass the DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 exam before the program starts
- DAAD scholarships include a 6-month preparatory German course before you start your Master’s or PhD program.
This is a huge advantage: if you apply to a German-language program and win the scholarship, the DAAD will fund a 6-month intensive German course in Germany to help you reach the required level. During these 6 months, you will continue to receive your full monthly stipend.
How does the step-by-step application process work?
The DAAD application process requires organization and planning. You should start at least 6-10 months before the deadline. Here’s what you need to know:
Documents you need to prepare
| Document | Specific requirements |
|---|---|
| DAAD Form | Complete and signed (available on the official website) |
| Europass CV | Official DAAD form, signed |
| Letter of motivation | Maximum 2 pages. If you are applying to several programs (max. 3), explain why you are applying to each one. |
| Letter of recommendation | From your current employer, on letterhead, with signature, seal, and recent date. |
| Employment certificates | They must demonstrate a minimum of 2 years of post-bachelor’s degree experience |
| Language certificate | IELTS/TOEFL for English or German certificate depending on the program |
| Academic qualifications | Copies of Bachelor’s degree (and Master’s degree if you are applying for a PhD) |
| Academic records | With rating scale, certified translation if necessary |
Important note:Â Some programs may require additional documents. Always check the specific course description you are applying for on the DAAD portal.
When do the calls for applications open and what are the deadlines?
Deadlines vary depending on each specific DAAD program, so it is essential that you check the program of your interest directly on the official website.
What you should know about deadlines:
- Each DAAD scholarship has its own opening and closing dates for applications
- The most popular programs usually have annual calls for applications
- For programs starting in October 2026, applications typically open several months in advance.
Crucial recommendation: Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your application 6-10 months in advance to give yourself time to:
- Prepare quality documents
- Obtain language certificates if you need them.
- Obtain letters of recommendation
- Contact your local DAAD office for advice
For the exact updated dates:
Visit the DAAD Funding Guide (funding-guide.de)
Find the specific program that interests you
On each scholarship page you will find the official and updated deadlines
You can also contact the DAAD office in your country directly to confirm deadlines
Important:Â Dates may change from year to year, so always check the information directly on the official website of the program you wish to apply to.
What areas of study and programs does the DAAD fund?
One of the great advantages of DAAD scholarships is that they cover virtually all areas of knowledge. Whether you study engineering, social sciences, arts, or medicine, there are options for you.
Main areas of study
DAAD scholarships for master’s and doctoral degrees fund programs in:
- Economics, Business Administration and Political Economy
- Development Cooperation
- Engineering and Related Sciences
- Math
- Regional and Urban Planning
- Agricultural and Forestry System
- Natural and Environmental Sciences
- Medicine and Public Health
- Social Sciences, Education and Law
- Journalism and Media
The DAAD places special emphasis on programs related to sustainable development, climate change, renewable energy, governance and public policy, reflecting its commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Universities where you can study
DAAD scholarships allow you to study at any German public university, but some specific programs collaborate with particular institutions:
| University | Specialization |
|---|---|
| Hertie School (Berlin) | Public policies, governance |
| University of Duisburg-Essen | Urban development, engineering |
| Willy Brandt School (Erfurt) | International public policy |
| Leuphana University (Lüneburg) | Sustainability, management |
| Osnabrück University | Applied programs |
| University of Passau | European governance |
| University of Potsdam | Social and political sciences |
To explore all available programs, use the DAAD International Programmes database, where you will find more than 1,500 master’s and doctoral programs taught in English or German.
Read Also: Top 10 Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students
How much money do DAAD scholarships provide per month?
DAAD scholarships provide a monthly stipend of €934 for Master’s students and €1,300 for PhD students, an amount specifically designed to cover all your living expenses in Germany, including accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses. This amount is sufficient to live comfortably as a student in Germany, as the average cost of living for students is around €800-€900 per month. In addition to the monthly stipend, the scholarship includes comprehensive health insurance (valued at approximately €110 per month), round-trip travel expenses between your home country and Germany, and for programs longer than six months, you may also be eligible for additional allowances for family expenses, rent in expensive cities, and a contribution of up to €500 per semester towards university administrative fees.
Do I need to know German to apply for DAAD scholarships?
Not necessarily, as you can apply for DAAD scholarships for programs taught entirely in English by submitting an IELTS score of at least 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80+ (Internet) without needing any German language skills. However, if you apply for programs taught in German, you need to demonstrate a minimum level of B1 in German at the time of application and subsequently pass the DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 exam before the start of your academic program. The major advantage is that DAAD scholarships include a fully funded, six-month preparatory German course in Germany before you begin your Master’s or PhD program, during which you will continue to receive your full monthly stipend, allowing you to reach the required German level without financial worries.
Does the DAAD offer scholarships for undergraduate students?
The DAAD does not offer scholarships for full undergraduate programs (3-4 year bachelor’s degrees), as its primary focus is on funding master’s degrees, doctorates, and research programs for professionals who have already completed their university education. However, if you are an undergraduate student, the DAAD does offer specific opportunities such as research internships, summer and winter courses, and short-term exchange programs that allow you to gain academic experience in Germany. A prime example is the RISE Germany program, which funds summer research internships for undergraduate students in science, engineering, and computer science, enabling you to work on research projects at German universities and institutes while receiving a monthly stipend.
What are the main requirements for applying to the DAAD?
To apply for DAAD scholarships, you need to meet four fundamental requirements: first, a four-year Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s programs) or a Master’s degree (for PhD programs) with a minimum GPA of 8.5/10 or 85%; second, at least two years of professional experience after completing your Bachelor’s degree, as the DAAD seeks professionals with practical experience in their field; third, your most recent academic degree must be no more than six years old; and fourth, you must demonstrate proficiency in English (IELTS 6.0+ or ​​TOEFL 80+) or German (minimum level B1) depending on the program’s language. Additionally, you cannot have resided in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application, and you will need to prepare comprehensive documentation, including the DAAD application form, Europass CV, a cover letter, letters of recommendation from your employer, employment certificates, and academic transcripts.
Can I apply for more than one program with DAAD scholarships?
Yes, you can apply to up to three different master’s programs with a single DAAD application, which increases your chances of acceptance. You must list them in order of priority on your DAAD application form and, most importantly, include a motivation letter that clearly explains why you are applying to each of these specific programs and how they relate to your professional experience and career goals. Once you submit your application, you cannot change the priority order you established, so think carefully before submitting your application and make sure that the program listed first is truly your preferred choice.
