Studying in Germany is now more achievable than ever for Indian students, thanks to the prestigious DAAD Scholarship—one of the most comprehensive and fully funded scholarship programs in the world. In 2022 alone, more than 6,000 Indian students benefited from DAAD-funded programs, marking a 25% increase from previous years.
As per 2024 DAAD statistics:
- Over 6,200 Indian students received DAAD funding.
- Germany now hosts 38,500+ Indian students across bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs.
- 90% of DAAD scholars reported positive career outcomes within six months of graduation.
Fact: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds more than 100,000 students and researchers annually, making it the world’s largest funding body for academic exchange.
If you’re planning to pursue undergraduate, postgraduate, or research programs in Germany, this guide will help you easily navigate the DAAD landscape.
What is DAAD?
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organization supporting international academic exchange. Established in 1925, DAAD offers a wide range of scholarship and research opportunities for students, researchers, and faculty members across the globe.
Key Highlights:
- Supports over 100,000 international and German scholars every year
- Offers programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and internship levels
- Focuses on academic excellence, bilateral exchange, and international cooperation
DAAD Scholarship Highlights
| Scholarship Type | Merit-Based |
| Offered by | Government bodies |
| Organization | N/A |
| Application Deadline | Nov 05, 2025 |
| Renewability | Yes, Yearly |
| International Student Eligible | Yes |
| Scholarship Website Link | DAAD Scholarship |
Why Choose DAAD Scholarships?
The DAAD scholarship is one of the most prestigious awards for international students. Here are some key reasons why Indian students should consider applying for a DAAD scholarship:
- Comprehensive Financial Support: DAAD scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, travel allowances, health insurance, and even language courses (if required).
- Diverse Opportunities: Scholarships are available for a wide variety of programs in disciplines such as engineering, social sciences, arts, music, and performing arts.
- Prestige and Recognition: Being awarded a DAAD scholarship can open doors to excellent career opportunities and global professional networks.
- Research-Focused: DAAD places a significant emphasis on research and innovation, making it an excellent choice for students interested in pursuing advanced research in their fields.
- Cultural Exchange: Apart from academic benefits, DAAD scholarships allow students to experience the rich cultural history of Germany, improve their language skills, and immerse themselves in a multicultural environment.
Major DAAD Scholarships for Indian Students
DAAD offers multiple scholarship schemes for international students. Below are the most popular ones:
| Scholarship Program | Eligibility | Funding (Per Month) | Duration | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EPOS – Development-Related Postgraduate Courses | Graduates with min. 2 years of work experience | €934 (graduates), €1,200 (PhD) | 12–42 months | Postgraduate/doctoral programs at German universities with focus on development |
| Study Scholarships – Architecture | Graduates in Architecture/Urban Planning | €934 | 10–24 months | Support for master’s/postgraduate studies in Architecture |
| Study Scholarships – Music | Bachelor’s in Music or equivalent | €934 | 10–24 months | Master’s studies in Music or related performance-based programs |
| Study Scholarships – Performing Arts | Bachelor’s in Theatre, Dance, etc. | €934 | 10–24 months | Postgraduate training in performing arts in Germany |
| Study Scholarships – Fine Arts, Design, Visual Communication, and Film | Bachelor’s or equivalent in arts-related fields | €934 | 10–24 months | For students seeking postgraduate artistic studies |
| Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Master’s in Public Policy and Good Governance – PPGG) | Graduates in Social Sciences, Political Science, Law, Economics | €934 + allowances | 1–2 years | Focus on public policy & good governance in selected German universities |
| RISE Germany – Research Internships in Science and Engineering | Bachelor’s students in STEM fields | Monthly scholarship + travel and insurance | 6–12 weeks | Summer research internships with German universities & research institutes |
| KOSPIE – Combined Study and Practice Stays for Engineers from Developing Countries | Master’s/MTech students from IITs | €861 + insurance, research, travel & rent subsidy | 6–7 months | For project-based master’s thesis under German supervision |
| DAAD WISE – Working Internships in Science and Engineering | Indian undergrads from selected institutions (IITs/NITs) | €750 + travel, insurance | 2–3 months (summer) | Internship with German university/research institute |
| PhD Scholarships – Research Grants – Doctoral Programs | Master’s graduates (any discipline) | €1,200 | Up to 36 months | Full PhD program or short-term research in Germany |
| Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees (Sandwich Model) | PhD students enrolled in Indian universities | €1,200 + allowances | 7–24 months in Germany | Partial PhD research under joint supervision (India & Germany) |
| Short-Term Research Grants | PhD students, Postdocs | €1,200 (PhD), €2,000 (Postdoc) | 1–6 months | Research stay in Germany as part of doctoral/postdoctoral work |
| University Summer Courses Scholarships | Students with basic German knowledge (A2+) | €1,134 (fixed) + travel subsidy | 3–4 weeks | Intensive German language and culture programs in German universities |
| DAAD Germany Government Scholarships for Master’s in Germany | Graduates with excellent academic scores | €934 + travel, insurance, tuition (if any) | 12–24 months | Full master’s degrees across disciplines |
Detailed Overview of Select DAAD Scholarship Programs
The DAAD offers a variety of scholarships for Indian students across different fields of study. Below are detail of prominent scholarship programs:
1. Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
Who Can Apply: Graduates from any discipline with at least two years of professional experience.
Features: The EPOS scholarship supports postgraduate or doctoral studies at a partner university in Germany. It aims to equip students with the necessary skills to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
Amount: ₹77,000 (934 euros) per month for graduates and ₹1,12,000 (1,200 euros) for doctoral candidates.
Duration: 12-42 months, depending on the program.
2. Study Scholarships – Postgraduate Studies in Architecture
Who Can Apply: Applicants with a first university degree in areas such as Landscape Planning, Urban Planning, Architecture, and related fields.
Features: This scholarship provides financial support for postgraduate studies in architecture at a German university. It includes a monthly stipend, travel allowance, off-study allowance, and comprehensive insurance coverage.
Amount: ₹77,000 (934 euros) per month, along with other allowances.
Duration: 10-24 months.
3. Study Scholarships – Postgraduate Studies in Music
Who Can Apply: Individuals with a first university degree in music by the time their course begins.
Features: The scholarship offers funding for continuing music education in Germany, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and providing health, accident, and liability insurance.
Amount: ₹77,000 (934 euros) per month, along with health, accident, and liability insurance, travel allowance, and off-study allowance.
Duration: 10-24 months.
4. Study Scholarships – Postgraduate Studies in Performing Arts
Who Can Apply: Candidates with a first university degree in performing arts by the start of their course.
Features: This scholarship offers financial support for postgraduate studies in the performing arts in Germany. It includes monthly stipends, insurance coverage, and travel allowances.
Amount: ₹77,000 (934 euros) per month, with additional allowances.
Duration: 10-24 months.
5. Combined Study and Practice Stays for Engineers from Developing Countries (KOSPIE)
Who Can Apply: Students in the second year of a Master’s course or in the fourth semester of a three-year MTech course/8th semester of an integrated/dual degree course at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT).
Features: The KOSPIE scholarship provides an opportunity for engineering students to work on a project for their master’s thesis under the supervision of a German professor. The scholarship also includes a research allowance.
Amount: ₹70,000 (861 euros) per month, along with health, accident, and liability insurance, research allowance of ₹21,000 (266 euros), and travel and rent subsidies.
Duration: 7 months.
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Scholarships
To apply for a DAAD German scholarship, Indian students need to fulfill the following eligibility criteria:
- A Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 8.0 CGPA (or equivalent grade)
- Language proficiency: IELTS (6.5+) / TOEFL (90+) / German language cerficiation (B1/B2 for some programs)
- Relevant academic background
- For EPOS and Helmut-Schmidt: 2+ years of professional experience
- Well-drafted Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
Additional Documents:
- Academic transcripts
- Europass format CV
- Proof of voluntary or internship work (if any)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
How to Apply for DAAD Scholarships from India
Applying for a German Academic Exchange Service scholarship is a straightforward process if you follow these steps:
- Visit the DAAD Scholarship Database: https://www.daad.de/en/
- Search for scholarships that match your profile
- Read all eligibility and funding guidelines
- Register on the DAAD portal and create a profile
- Upload all required documents
- Submit the application before the deadline
Pro Tip: Prepare and apply at least 6 months before course commencement.
DAAD Scholarship Requirements – Documents Checklist
Before you hit the ‘submit’ button, ensure you’ve compiled the following:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- SOP (Statement of Purpose)
- CV (Europass Format)
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Language Proficiency Test Scores
- Research Proposal (PhD only)
- Work Experience Proof (if required)
DAAD Scholarship Deadlines 2025 for Indian Students
| Scholarship Type | Deadline (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| DAAD WISE | Oct–Nov 2024 |
| EPOS | Aug–Oct 2024 |
| Helmut-Schmidt | July 31, 2024 |
| Study Scholarships | Nov 2024 – Jan 2025 |
| Research Grants | Varies (Check Portal) |
Start preparing documents and SOPs well in advance!
What Does the DAAD Scholarship Cover?
- Monthly Stipend:
- Master’s students: €934
- PhD scholars: €1,200
- Travel allowance (India-Germany airfare)
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Full or partial tuition coverage
- German language course fees (if applicable)
Factors Affecting the DAAD Scholarship Selection Process
The DAAD scholarship selection process is highly competitive and considers various academic and personal criteria to identify the most deserving candidates. Understanding these factors can help applicants tailor their applications to stand out.
1. Academic Excellence
One of the primary selection criteria is a strong academic record. A high CGPA (typically 8.0 or above on a 10-point scale) or an equivalent academic score is essential. The selection committee evaluates the consistency and rigor of previous academic performance.
2. Relevance of Academic Background
Applicants must ensure that their academic qualifications are relevant to the chosen course in Germany. For instance, engineering graduates applying for EPOS must align their background with development-related technical programs.
3. Quality of Statement of Purpose (SOP)
The SOP plays a crucial role in conveying your motivation, goals, and why you’ve chosen a particular program and university. A well-written SOP tailored to DAAD’s values, focusing on social impact and academic objectives, can significantly boost your chances.
4. Professional Experience (If Applicable)
Some DAAD programs, like EPOS or Helmut-Schmidt, require candidates to have a minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience. This is evaluated in terms of job responsibilities, relevance to the course, and potential impact.
5. Language Proficiency
Fluency in English or German is necessary, depending on the language of instruction. Minimum scores include:
- IELTS: 6.5+
- TOEFL iBT: 90+
- German: B1/B2 level for certain programs
6. Recommendation Letters
Strong Letters of Recommendation from professors or employers that highlight your academic abilities, leadership skills, and potential for research or professional growth are critical.
7. Social Engagement and Extracurricular Activities
The DAAD also values applicants who demonstrate leadership potential, community involvement, or participation in volunteer work. These aspects reflect your ability to contribute to society and adapt well in multicultural environments.
8. Research Proposal (for PhD Applicants)
For doctoral candidates, the quality, originality, and feasibility of the research proposal are key. The proposal must align with current academic trends and German research institutions’ focus areas.
Tips to Win a DAAD Scholarship
- Start early – at least 6–8 months before the deadline
- Tailor your SOP to align with Germany’s academic and social values
- Choose programs that match your career and research goals
- Highlight social work, internships, or international experiences
- Network with past scholars or use DAAD alumni resources
Universities in Germany Offering DAAD Scholarships
Below are some of the top universities in Germany that offer programs supported by DAAD scholarships.
| University Name | Popular DAAD-Supported Programs | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | Engineering, Natural Sciences, Management, Life Sciences | Ranked among the top technical universities in Europe, strong research output, English-taught master’s programs |
| University of Heidelberg | Life Sciences, Humanities, Social Sciences, Medicine | Germany’s oldest university, known for its medical and scientific research excellence |
| RWTH Aachen University | Mechanical Engineering, Energy Systems, IT | Leading tech and engineering school in Europe; part of KOSPIE & EPOS |
| University of Freiburg | Environmental Studies, Renewable Energy, Medicine | Participates in DAAD’s EPOS and development-related courses; eco-research focused |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Social Sciences, Arts & Humanities, Natural Sciences | Strong focus on interdisciplinary research; offers DAAD-funded master’s & PhD programs |
| University of Stuttgart | Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture | DAAD scholarships available for architecture and urban development programs |
| Leipzig University | International Relations, Development Studies, Area Studies | Engaged in DAAD-funded collaborative development research with international partners |
| University of Bonn | Agricultural Sciences, Economics, Development Research | Partner university in many EPOS and DAAD-funded postgraduate programs |
| Free University of Berlin | Political Science, Communications, Area Studies | Offers a wide range of DAAD-funded social science and liberal arts courses |
| University of Göttingen | Biological Sciences, Forestry, Data Science | Renowned for academic partnerships under DAAD and other international funding bodies |
Other Scholarship Alternatives in Germany
- Erasmus+: Funded by the EU for exchange and degree programs
- Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
- University-specific waivers
Life in Germany as a DAAD Scholar
- Affordable Living: Avg. monthly expenses €850–€1,200
- Student Discounts: Public transport, dining, museums
- Part-Time Jobs: Up to 120 full days/year allowed
- Multicultural Environment: DAAD promotes cultural exchange events
- Post-study Visa: 18 months job-seeking visa after graduation
Walk International’s Support to Secure DAAD Scholarships
At Walk International, we assist Indian students through:
- Personalized profile assessment
- Selection of the right DAAD program
- SOP and LOR review
- Application guidance and checklist verification
- Pre-departure support
We’ve helped many Indian students secure partial or full funding to study in Germany. Let us help you make it too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DAAD scholarship fully funded?
Yes, most DAAD scholarships cover tuition, living costs, and travel expenses.
Can I apply to more than one DAAD program?
Yes, but you must check the application limits for each scholarship.
Do I need German language skills to apply?
Not always. Many programs are taught in English, but some require B1/B2 German.
What is the minimum GPA required?
Generally, an 8.0 CGPA or equivalent is preferred
Does DAAD offer scholarships for undergraduate students?
Only specific short-term programs like WISE are available for undergrads.
Conclusion
The DAAD Scholarship in Germany is a gateway for Indian students to access world-class education without financial stress. With fully funded programs, exceptional academic support, and post-study opportunities, DAAD makes studying in Germany not just a dream but an achievable goal.
