Scholarships in Germany for International Students 2024

Looking for scholarships to study in Germany? Look no further!

This blog highlights the most popular scholarship programs available to international students in Germany, including DAAD scholarship programs, the Deutschlandstipendium National Scholarship Program, Erasmus+ scholarships, and more. Discover which scholarship is the best fit for you and start your journey towards a world-class education in Germany.

Why Study in Germany?

Germany is home to many renowned universities highly ranked in the QS World Rankings. Studying in Germany, especially for a Master's degree, can significantly enhance your career. It is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe, thanks to the no-tuition fee policy of public universities. However, despite the free tuition, there are other costs you need to cover. On average, an international student requires 934 Euros per month to live in Germany. The good news is that there are several excellent scholarship programs available to international students.

Prominent Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Various scholarships are available for international students studying in Germany, funded by the government, private organizations, or universities. Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, generally including good academic performance and proficiency in the German language.

DAAD Scholarship Programs

The Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD), or the German Academic Exchange Service, is the world's largest funding organization, supporting over 100,000 German and international students, particularly from developing countries. DAAD offers a wide array of scholarships in Germany.

Key Features:

• Monthly payments: 934 Euros for graduates, 1200 Euros for doctoral students.

• Duration varies according to the study program.

• Start date typically October 1st of the following year.

• Includes travel allowance, insurance, and research allowance.

• Some scholarships provide family benefits or funds for language courses.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Focused on graduates and doctoral students.

• Must pursue a full-time course in Germany.

• Completed Bachelor's degree within the last six years.

• Minimum language requirement: IELTS band score of 6 or equivalent in TOEFL.

Popular DAAD Scholarships:

• Scholarships for Master’s Studies in All Academic Disciplines

• Research Grants for Full Doctoral Programs

• One-Year Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates

• Scholarships for Language Courses

How to Apply:

• Register in the DAAD portal (www.funding-guide.de).

• Follow the Application Procedure section under the Call for Applications.

• Select the desired scholarship program and submit the application.

Deutschlandstipendium National Scholarship Program (Germany Scholarship)

The Deutschlandstipendium supports students with outstanding academic records from around the world. Participating universities equally divide the grant and award it to qualifying students.

Key Features:

• Monthly payment of 300 Euros (150 Euros from private sponsors, 150 Euros from the Federal government).

• Typically awarded for two semesters, extendable for the entire study period.

• Additional benefits include mentoring programs, internships, and networking events.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Meet the university’s specific requirements.

• Doctoral candidates and federal university students are ineligible.

• Considerations include academic performance, personal achievements, resilience, and social commitment.

How to Apply:

• Contact the relevant authorities at the participating university.

Erasmus+ Scholarships in Germany

Erasmus+ is an EU-wide grant program for students who study in two different countries participating in the Erasmus program. The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships are available for students pursuing Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMDs).

Key Features:

• Covers travel, living allowance, and study costs.

• Funds the one-year period spent in Germany as part of the exchange.

• Participation of major universities across Europe.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Master’s course applicants.

• Program includes study periods in two countries.

• Universities must have signed the Erasmus Charter for Higher Education.

How to Apply:

• Create an EU login account.

• Register in the Organisation Registration System and obtain an Organisation ID.

• Submit the application form.

• National Agencies will evaluate the applications.

Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships

The Heinrich Boll Foundation offers scholarships to students at various educational levels, emphasizing environmental issues and social justice. Approximately 1200 students are awarded these scholarships each year.

Key Features:

• Monthly stipend of 934 Euros for non-EU Master’s students.

• Doctoral students receive 1200 Euros per month plus a 100 Euros mobility allowance.

• Funding period: regular period of study for Master’s, three years for PhDs.

• Application deadlines: March 1st and September 1st.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Open to students from all countries (non-EU for Master’s).

• Enrolled in state or state-recognized universities.

• Proficiency in German language (minimum level B2 or DSH 2).

How to Apply:

• Online application portal opens six weeks before the deadline.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship Program

The KAS Scholarships support international Master’s and Doctoral students in various fields, encouraging intercultural dialogue and global networking.

Key Features:

• Monthly scholarship of 934 Euros for Master’s students, 1400 Euros for PhDs.

• Course fees up to 1500 Euros per semester refunded.

• Additional benefits: health care insurance, family allowance, children’s allowance.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Above-average academic performance.

• Proficiency in German language (minimum B1 level).

• Active involvement in voluntary work and distinct political views.

How to Apply:

• Apply through the KAS Foundation office in your home country or online if already in Germany.

Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) Scholarship Program

The FES Scholarship program promotes young talents, supporting around 2700 students, including 40 international students.

Key Features:

• Monthly stipend of 934 Euros for international students.

• Doctoral students receive 1400 Euros per month for up to three years.

• Childcare allowance of 160 Euros per child.

• Applications take 4 to 7 months to process.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Enrolled in public or state-approved universities and polytechnic colleges.

• Proficiency in German language (DSH-2, TestDaF level 4, Telc C1 Hochschule, or equivalent).

• Apply before or at the beginning of the first semester.

How to Apply:

• Online application followed by two rounds of interviews.

University-Specific Scholarships

Many universities offer their own scholarships, providing additional support for their students. These scholarships can be less competitive as they are open only to students attending that specific university.

Example: Hamburg University Merit Scholarship Program

Key Features:

• Monthly funding of 930 Euros.

• Funding period of two semesters, with re-application possible.

• Application deadlines: April 15th and October 15th.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Enrolled in an academic degree program at Hamburg University for at least two semesters.

• Social and financial needs considered.

How to Apply:

• Apply online using the respective application forms.

Conclusion

Studying in Germany offers excellent education, infrastructure, and international exposure. Receiving a scholarship can make this experience even more rewarding. This blog has provided extensive details about prominent scholarships in Germany, helping you choose the right one. Apply before the deadlines and enjoy a burden-free education in Germany!