DAAD Scholarship Database
German Academic Exchange Service scholarship database with hundreds of funding programs for international students to study in Germany and for Germans to study abroad.
Overview
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst - German Academic Exchange Service) is Germany's largest funding organisation for international academic exchange. Founded in 1925, DAAD administers over 250 scholarship and fellowship programs supporting international students to study and research in Germany, and German students and researchers to go abroad. The DAAD Scholarship Database (daad.de/scholarship-database) is the primary tool for discovering relevant DAAD programs, filterable by degree level, subject area, nationality, and scholarship type. DAAD funds more than 100,000 individuals annually and has a global network of offices in over 60 countries.
What You Can Find Here
- DAAD scholarships for international students for all study levels (bachelor's, master's, PhD, postdoc) in Germany
- Research grants for international academics and researchers in Germany
- DAAD scholarships for Germans to study or research abroad
- Country-specific bilateral DAAD programs with partners in 150+ countries
- DAAD language course scholarships for intensive German language study
- DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program for master's study for public policy professionals from developing countries
- DAAD Scholarship for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
Who Should Use This
- International students from any country seeking scholarships to study in Germany
- Researchers and postdocs wanting fellowships at German universities and research institutes
- German students and researchers seeking DAAD support for study or research abroad
- Development sector professionals seeking DAAD's EPOS program for German university master's degrees
How to Get Started
- Step 1: Visit daad.de and use the "Find Scholarship" tool (Stipendiendatenbank in German) at daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships
- Step 2: Filter by your status (international to Germany or German abroad), degree level, subject, and nationality
- Step 3: Review matching programs and read the eligibility criteria, deadlines, and award details
- Step 4: Apply through the portal.daad.de system or through country-specific DAAD offices
- Step 5: Contact your nearest DAAD regional office for guidance on the best programs for your profile
Things to Check Before Applying
- Different DAAD programs have different deadlines - many major programs close in October-November for the following year
- DAAD programs for international students to Germany typically require a bachelor's degree and usually require German or English language skills
- Some DAAD programs target specific countries or regions - verify eligibility for your nationality
- DAAD is very responsive - contact regional offices for advice on which programs best match your profile
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to speak German for DAAD scholarships?
It depends on the program. Many master's programs at German universities are offered in English. However, some DAAD programs require German proficiency. DAAD also funds German language preparation courses.
What is the DAAD Development Scholarship (EPOS)?
EPOS scholarships are for applicants from developing countries who want to pursue a master's degree at a German university in a development-related field. They are awarded through the Helmut Schmidt Program and other DAAD offerings.
Can I apply for DAAD as an independent researcher?
Yes. DAAD has research grant programs for independent academics and researchers, not just enrolled students. Check the Research Grants section of the DAAD database.
How many DAAD scholarships are awarded each year?
DAAD funds over 100,000 individuals annually through more than 250 programs - the largest educational exchange organization in the world by number of recipients.
Is DAAD only for German universities?
Primarily yes - DAAD funds study in Germany for internationals, and study or research abroad for Germans. There are limited bilateral programs funding study at specific partner universities outside Germany.
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