DAAD Scholarship Germany: Requirement & Eligibility for Indian Students

Did you know that the number of Indian students in Germany has doubled in the last five years? As of 2023, the count was approximately 42,578!

Do you also dream of joining the growing number of students studying abroad? If yes, the DAAD scholarship in Germany is the good news you sought. 

Suppose you have always envisioned yourself being part of a throbbing international university with state-of-the-art facilities. Still, the tuition fee has seemed like a blocker. In that case, you can leave that worry behind with the DAAD scholarship to support your dream of studying in Germany.

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) annually helps more than 1,00,000 German and international students and researchers worldwide. It’s the largest organisation in the world regarding funding and might also be your ticket to studying abroad! The funding comes from both the European Union and the Federal Government.

The best part? Studying with DAAD offers a gateway to Germany, the world’s third-largest economy. It opens up numerous opportunities after completing your studies. 

So, are you excited about studying in Germany on a scholarship? If so, this guide is a goldmine of answers. It will walk you through all the details about the DAAD scholarship in Germany – requirements, eligibility, and more. Dive in for more information. 

Key Highlights

In Germany, India ranks as the first source of foreign postgraduate students, following China, with about 43,000 Indian students currently enrolled in various educational institutions. If you still face financial constraints or want a funded program for a less stressful academic life, the DAAD Scholarship in Germany can help. 

Mentioned below is a summary of everything covered in this blog. 

What is DAAD and can it help you study in Germany?

DAAD stands for Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, which translates to “German Academic Exchange Service.” It has existed since 1925 and helps bridge the gap between universities worldwide, making it easier for students and researchers to connect and collaborate across borders.

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Real Student Stories

Explore the inspiring stories of students who made their study abroad dreams come true. From overcoming challenges to embracing new cultures, their experiences offer valuable insights and tips to help you thrive on your own journey. Get motivated and start planning your adventure today!

The Story Behind the DAAD Motto

In 1925, Carl Joachim Friedrich, a Social and Political Studies student at Heidelberg University, organised scholarships for German students, which led to the founding of the Academic Exchange Service (previously AAD). Initially focused on Social and Political Studies, the AAD expanded to all academic disciplines and moved to Berlin.

By 1928, the AAD had strengthened academic ties with France, and for decades after that, the organisation continued to grow across borders, aiding international educational exchange. For instance, after the 2004 tsunami in southern and southeastern Asia, the DAAD provided INR 3.63 crores to help affected students continue their studies.

In 2008, DAAD launched the “A New Passage to India” initiative to enhance academic relations between Germany and India. Hence, started the long run of DAAD scholarships in Germany for Indian students.

DAAD’s motto is all about “Change by Exchange.” They believe that when people and ideas swap places, it creates understanding between countries and individuals. This understanding, they say, is critical to building peace. 

DAAD Scholarship Funding Opportunities by Different Organisations

Getting a full scholarship that covers all your living expenses in Germany sounds impressive, right? You might think, “Can Indians apply for the DAAD scholarship?” The excellent news is, yes! You are also eligible for a DAAD scholarship in Germany if you’re from India!

That said, knowing about the types of organisations offering DAAD scholarships is essential. Check them out now!

• Socially Oriented Organisations (like the Christiane Nusslein-Volhard Foundation)
• Research Institutions (like the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation)
• Party Affiliated Foundations (like the Heinrich-Böll Stiftung)
• Erasmus+
• Corporate Foundations
• Student Organisations
• Federal States
• Denominational Organisations

Important Dates and Deadlines for DAAD Scholarship in Germany

Each year, the application deadlines for the DAAD scholarship in Germany are updated during the second quarter and generally align with dates from the previous year. The intake occurs every two years – the next intake is in 2026. 

Here is the crucial information regarding scholarship applications and deadlines:

Please note: Application procedures may vary depending on the scholarship program.

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DAAD Scholarship in Germany Eligibility Criteria

Did you know that the DAAD Scholarship in Germany offers 181 scholarships for international students? Well, DAAD does not just fund study scholarships but also research projects, doctoral studies, visitor stays, summer programs, and many other short-term and long-term opportunities. 

However, it is essential to note that not all scholarship programs are open for Indian students. There are about 25 DAAD scholarships in Germany for Indian students. While the eligibility criteria tremendously vary as per the program, here are a few basic requirements for DAAD scholarships that you must fulfil.

1. Age: DAAD scholarships generally do not have a set age limit. However, some specific programs may have age requirements if an international partner requests. That being said, most scholarships require that you haven’t been out of school for too long since the last degree was earned. 
2. Proof of language proficiency: The language requirements differ depending on the course you wish to apply for. The minimum requirement (in most cases) to apply for a DAAD scholarship in Germany is tabulated below.

3. Work Experience: A minimum of 2 years of work experience is required for research work, and teaching/graduate assistantship.

Do not forget: You must also fulfil all the requirements of the study program you’re applying for in order to study in Germany with a DAAD scholarship.

Different Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 

DAAD scholarships primarily target graduates, doctoral students, and postdoctoral researchers. They support study and research visits to both universities and non-university research institutions in Germany. Some programs also fund internships. 

DAAD also offers Research Grants, and one-year grants to doctoral candidates from nearly all countries. Entire doctoral program grants in Germany are primarily awarded to deserving students from developing countries. 

Furthermore, students and doctoral candidates facing the risk of being deprived of educational or other rights in their home country can apply for a DAAD scholarship in Germany through the Hilde Domin Programme. You cannot apply directly but must be nominated by a legal organisation based in Germany. Once nominated, the DAAD will contact you and invite you to apply via the application portal.

DAAD operates 3 Information Points in India, located in Bangalore, Pune, and Chennai, along with one Regional Office situated in New Delhi. 

With so many things explained at length about the DAAD scholarship in Germany, let’s now summarise the scholarships available based on different education levels.

DAAD Scholarship in Germany for Undergraduate Students

Currently, there are no DAAD scholarships available for Indian students seeking to pursue Bachelor’s studies in Germany. However, there are some non-degree options to explore. The eligibility for the DAAD Scholarship in Germany for undergraduate courses requires you must be pursuing a bachelor’s degree, with the subject depending on the specific program.

These programs are typically 2-3 months long. Scholarships for a longer duration funded by DAAD typically start after graduation. 

Here are the top 3 scholarship programs for undergraduate students to use DAAD funds for internships or language courses in Germany.

1. University Summer Courses Offered in Germany for Foreign Students and Graduates

This scholarship program aims to enhance knowledge of the German language (general and technical) and regional studies.

Who can apply?

• Students in undergraduate and master’s degree programs in all disciplines.
• Undergraduate students must have completed at least two academic years before the scholarship period starts.

Benefit

• One-time scholarship payment of € 1,134 (INR 1L).
• Health, accident and personal liability insurance benefits.

2. Practical Traineeships for Foreign Students of Natural and Technical Sciences, Agriculture and Forestry (IAESTE)

The traineeship program helps improve its participants’ professional qualifications, practical skills, and intercultural competencies.

You can apply for this scholarship if you are a student of Natural and Technical Sciences, Agriculture and Forestry from member or non-member countries of IAESTE. The International Association for the Exchange of Students for Technical Experience (IAESTE) is a global non-profit organisation. It mainly offers internships in STEM fields but also expands to other fields like marketing, management, and languages.

Benefit: Interns are paid € 934 (INR 85k a month).

3. Working Internships in Science and Engineering (WISE)

This program specifically targets Indian students studying science and engineering who want to undertake a research internship at a publicly funded German university or research institute.

You can apply for this scholarship if you:

• Are enrolled in Indian institutions that are AICTE approved, NAAC accredited, MHRD evaluated, or Institutes of National Importance (INI).
• Are studying in the broad fields of engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences. 
• Are in the 5th or 6th academic semester of a 4-year Bachelor’s program or the 5th, 6th, 7th, or 8th academic semester of a 5-year integrated or dual degree (Bachelor-Master) program?
• Have previously not received the WISE scholarship.

Benefit: A 2 to 3-month research stay taking place between May and August.

DAAD Scholarship for Masters in Germany for Indian Students

Climate change, species extinction, displacement, poverty, and epidemics affect us all, and industrial nations are often the major contributors to these issues. Recent migration movements have highlighted how crises in distant regions can directly impact Western countries. Globally networked researchers and academics must collaborate to find solutions to these challenges. 

Academic exchange is essential for Germany’s scientific community to play a significant role in this process, which is why many DAAD scholarships in Germany, particularly at the master’s level, focus on fields like the arts, public policy, and engineering. 

While each scholarship program has specific requirements, DAAD scholarship requirements for masters typically require completion of a bachelor’s degree before the funding period begins. 

Unlike at the bachelor’s level, Indian students are eligible for various DAAD scholarships when pursuing a master’s degree in Germany. This section highlights the best DAAD scholarship for masters in Germany for Indian Students that aims to encourage research in developmental areas. Have a look.

1. Combined Study and Practise Stays for Engineers from Indian IITs

This scholarship program presents a unique opportunity for highly motivated students enrolled in Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) to work on a project for their master’s thesis with guidance from a German professor at one of the TU9 technical universities.

About the TU9: The TU9 is a prestigious alliance of 9 leading German universities renowned for their exceptional engineering and natural science programs.

Who Can Apply? 

This program of the DAAD scholarship in Germany is open to students currently enrolled in the following programs at IITs:

• 2nd semester of a two-year Master’s program
• 4th semester of a three-year MTech program
• 8th semester of an integrated/dual degree program in Engineering, Mathematics, or Natural Sciences

Benefit

The benefits awardees of the Combined Study and Practice Stay Research Grant are listed below:

2. Development-Related Postgraduate Courses

The DAAD offers scholarships for postgraduate courses to specialists from developing and newly industrialised countries including India. The scholarship program provides the opportunity to pursue a Master’s or, in exceptional cases, a PhD at a state or state-recognised German university.

Who Can Apply?

• The scholarships are open to foreign graduates from developing countries in all disciplines with at least two years of professional experience.
• Must have a Bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year course) in an appropriate subject

Benefit

The benefits of receiving this DAAD scholarship in Germany for development-related postgraduate courses are listed below.

3. Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance – PPGG) 

The DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Programme empowers aspiring changemakers from developing countries to champion democracy and social justice back home. This German Foreign Office-funded program offers Master’s degrees in fields crucial for your country’s development – political science, law, economics, and administration. 

Who Can Apply? 

• Recent graduates (Bachelor’s or equivalent) from developing countries
• Strong background in Social Sciences, Law, Economics, or Public Policy
• Must have gained practical experience relevant to the program such as professional experience or internships.

Benefit

Below is the breakdown of benefits the awardees of the Helmut-Schmidt Program receive.

Please note: For specific details and application deadlines, please refer to the DAAD website.

Research Grants for Doctoral Candidates: Focused on PhD Students

DAAD offers Research Grants specifically designed for PhD students, providing them with the opportunity to pursue their doctoral studies in Germany. These grants aim to support highly qualified doctoral candidates from various academic fields. Here are the top 2 that offer the most flexibility and funding. 

1. Research Grants – Doctoral Programme in Germany

This scholarship program allows you to complete your doctoral degree in Germany with funding from the German Federal Foreign Office. The program provides funding for a doctoral project at a state-recognised higher education institution in Germany or a non-university research institute in Germany. 

Who Can Apply?

• You have above-average qualifications and have completed your Master’s degree or Diploma. 
• In exceptional cases, you must have completed a Bachelor’s degree by the time the funding period begins.

Benefit

Below are the benefits a scholar enrolled in a Doctoral Research Grant will receive.

2. Research Grants – Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees/Cotutelle

This program offers you the chance to pursue a bi-national doctoral degree at both your home university and a university in Germany. Depending on your project’s nature, you can apply for:

a) Bi-national supervision (Sandwich model): By the start of the funding period, students must have a Master’s degree, a Diploma, or, in exceptional cases, a bachelor’s degree.

b) Cotutelle model: Requires admission to a doctoral program by the start of the funding period.

Here are the key differences between the “Cotutelle” and “Sandwich” Models.

Please note: The German Federal Foreign Office funds the scholarships for these programs. 

Benefit

Mentioned below are the benefits awardees of the Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees receive.

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Benefits of the DAAD Scholarship in Germany

At this point, you might wonder: “I get the gist of the main DAAD scholarship in Germany, but what exactly are the benefits of a DAAD scholarship?”

Well, this is a straightforward question. However, the benefits of the DAAD scholarship in Germany vary depending on factors such as the student’s country, duration, and subject. The DAAD provides a range of merit-based scholarships for international students across various academic levels, including bachelor’s, master’s, and postdoctoral programs. These scholarships are beneficial for students pursuing full-time courses at German universities. 

Here is a breakdown of the various benefits available to you. 

1. Monthly scholarship payment:

• Graduates: € 934 (INR 84k)
• Doctoral and PhD students: € 1,300 (INR 1.16L)
• Assistant Teachers and Assistant Professors: € 2,000 (INR 1.8L)
• Professors: € 2,150 (INR 1.9L)

2. Most DAAD scholarships in Germany also provide you with health, accident and personal liability insurance.
3. Depending on the scholarship program, additional benefits, such as a one-time research allowance, family support, or funding for language courses, may also be provided.

Top Universities in Germany Under DAAD Scholarship

Germany is highly popular among international students due to its excellent universities, vibrant student life, and good funding options. While the cost of studying in Germany is manageable for most students, the living expenses can be high, leading many students to seek scholarships. 

The good news is that numerous Top-ranked German universities also accept DAAD scholarships. Here is a list of the DAAD international programs and the best universities in Germany under DAAD scholarship. 

Please note: These are just a few German Universities offering DAAD scholarships in Germany. 

Once you’ve narrowed your university options to those that align with your interests and the DAAD scholarship’s requirements, it’s time to connect with the International Office at each chosen university. They can guide you through the application process and provide a specific document list.

Here’s a key point: Extracurricular involvement, such as internships, volunteer work, project participation, and training, can significantly enhance your chances of securing a DAAD scholarship, even if it’s not specifically listed in the requirements!

Application Materials

Generally, you’ll need the following documents (all officially certified and translated):

• Higher Education Entrance Qualification: This proves you meet the minimum requirements for studying in Germany.
• Transcript of Records: This should detail your subjects and grades.
• Previous Degree Certificates (if applicable): If you have prior university studies, include certified copies.
• Passport Photo and Copy: One photo and a copy of your passport’s identification page.
• Language Certificates: Proof of German or English proficiency (depending on the program).

Certification and Fees

• Only officially certified copies and translations are accepted. German embassies can typically provide this service.
• There are fees for document certification and application processing.
• Applying through uni-assist incurs an assessment fee of approximately € 75 (INR 7K) for your first choice and € 30 (INR 3K) for each additional program in the same semester.

Application Forms

You can obtain application forms from the university, uni-assist, or Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung (available only in German). The submission process varies – some universities offer online forms, while others require a printed and mailed application. Always confirm the specific method with your chosen university’s International Office.

That’s it! Once you qualify for your DAAD Scholarship in Germany, you’ll unlock financial support to pursue your chosen program at a top German university.

How to Apply for a DAAD Scholarship in Germany

Did you know: that DAAD awarded 316 scholarships to students across South Asia for the academic year 2024/25, of which 287 scholarships were awarded to Indian students? 

Are you also interested in becoming part of this thriving Indian community in Germany?  Stick around because the pointers below will walk you through the process of applying for a DAAD scholarship in Germany.

1. Select your chosen program in the DAAD scholarship database as a first step.
2. After finding the scholarship that is apt, check the DAAD scholarship in Germany eligibility criteria to qualify for that particular scholarship. 
3. As a next step, collect required documents (details given in the upcoming section); certify and translate as needed.
4. Apply via the DAAD portal*. However, there may be exceptions – for instance, scholarship programs like Helmut-Schmidt require you to apply directly to the study program.
5. Wait for a response from the DAAD, which may take several months. 

*Where you should apply also depends on your country of origin, the type of higher education entrance qualification, and the subject you want to study. You have two options for applying: 

• You can either send your application directly to the chosen university 
• Or, you can apply through the University Application Service for International Students (uni-assist).

Let’s move ahead and see the list of all documents needed to apply for the DAAD scholarship in Germany. 

Application Documents Needed for DAAD Scholarship in Germany 

You can upload the following documents in (non-certified) scanned form via the DAAD portal. However, DAAD may request certified copies later.

• Online application form
• Detailed resume (maximum three pages)
• List of publications, if any (maximum ten pages)
• Motivation letter (1-2 pages) addressing the personal and professional benefits you expect from your project in Germany. Upload this under ‘study project/motivation’.
• A detailed research proposal and description of previous research (up to 10 pages total). Upload this under ‘research project’.

Please note: Some courses may require additional documents. 

To Conclude:

The DAAD Scholarship in Germany is more than just financial aid; it’s a catalyst for transformation, especially for students from lower-middle-income countries. 

Programs like the Hilde Domin Programme support candidates facing threats in their home countries, offering a secure environment to continue their education. By choosing DAAD, you’re not just getting a scholarship but joining a community dedicated to driving global progress. Seize this opportunity to expand your horizons and make a lasting impact on your field and community. 

Still, have questions about living and studying in Germany? Explore estimated living costs for Master’s students, or discover IELTS Test resources to help you ace your IELTS test and unlock English-taught programs in Germany. Leap Scholar is your one-stop shop for all study-abroad information. 

Frequently Asked Questions