Germany Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students – Apply Now
Your Definitive Guide to Securing the DAAD Scholarship and Monthly Stipend for Master’s and PhD Programs in Tuition-Free Germany.
Germany is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for international students, largely due to its world-class research institutions and the fact that its public universities are largely tuition-free for all students (including international students, with some regional exceptions). However, the critical financial hurdle remains the cost of living and the mandatory proof of funds required for a German Student Visa.
This is where the generous, fully funded scholarships provided by the German Government—primarily managed through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)—become the golden ticket. These awards don’t just cover minimal expenses; they provide a comprehensive monthly stipend, travel allowances, and crucial health insurance.
Germany is not just a hub for high-quality education but also a top destination for international students seeking fully funded opportunities. For non-EU students with strong academic backgrounds, the German government offers numerous scholarship programs to support undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies in the country — all while helping promote academic and cultural exchange.
If you’ve been dreaming of studying in Europe without worrying about tuition fees or living expenses, this comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about Germany government scholarships for non-EU students, including eligibility criteria, benefits, how to apply, and why this might be the perfect choice for your future.
Why Study in Germany?
Germany ranks among the top educational destinations in the world due to the following reasons:
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Tuition-free public universities
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World-class academic programs taught in German and English
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Strong job market for international graduates
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Affordable living costs compared to other European nations
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Rich cultural and historical experiences
And best of all? The German government, along with other organizations, offers fully funded scholarships that make world-class education accessible to global talent.
Top German Government Scholarships for Non-EU Students
Below are the major scholarship programs funded (or supported) by the German government that are open to non-EU international students:
1. The Apex of Funding: The DAAD Scholarship Portfolio (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst)
The DAAD is the largest organization in the world supporting international academic exchange. It offers fully-funded scholarships for master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral students. Its scholarships are the backbone of German government support for non-EU students, primarily targeting Master’s and Doctoral candidates.
DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
The EPOS program is arguably the most prestigious and generous fully funded scholarship for students from developing and emerging countries seeking a Master’s or PhD in Germany.
- Value: This is a true fully funded scholarship. It covers:
- Monthly Stipend: Currently €934 for Master’s students and €1,300 for Doctoral candidates.
- Health Insurance: Coverage for health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
- Travel Allowance: A flat-rate allowance to cover the cost of travel to and from Germany.
- Additional Benefits: May include a rent subsidy or a family allowance, depending on circumstances.
- Focus: The program is tightly focused on specific courses deemed relevant to development goals (e.g., Public Health, Engineering, Economic Sciences, and Sustainable Development).
- Key Requirement: Applicants must typically possess at least two years of proven professional work experience in a development-related field after their Bachelor’s degree.
DAAD Study Scholarships for Master’s Studies (All Academic Disciplines)
This program is aimed at non-EU graduates from industrialized countries and other nations not covered by EPOS, or those pursuing non-development-related degrees.
- Value: Similar to EPOS, it provides a generous monthly stipend (€934) and covers travel and health insurance.
- Focus: Open to all academic disciplines, supporting a full Master’s program (up to two years).
- Strategic Insight: Competition is based purely on academic excellence and the quality of the applicant’s research or study proposal.
DAAD Research Grants (Doctoral Candidates and Postdocs)
These grants support PhD projects, often allowing for “sandwich models” (part-time in Germany, part-time in the home country) or full, long-term research stays in Germany.
- Value: Higher monthly stipend (currently €1,300), substantial research allowances, and support for publishing costs.
- Requirement: Requires a detailed research proposal and an official invitation/confirmation from a German host professor (supervisor). This is the key document.
Eligibility:
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Excellent academic record
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Bachelor’s degree (for master’s applicants)
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Proof of English or German language proficiency
Application Deadline: Varies by country and program.
2. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)
A public-private initiative that supports highly talented students irrespective of their nationality.
Benefits:
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€300 monthly allowance (half by government, half by private donors)
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Open to undergraduate and postgraduate students
Eligibility:
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Strong academic performance
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Social or community involvement
Deadline: Depends on the respective university.
3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships (KAS)
Funded by a German political foundation and supported by the government, this scholarship supports international master’s and doctoral candidates.
Benefits:
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€861 per month for master’s, €1,200 for PhD
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Health insurance subsidies
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Travel grants
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Research support
Eligibility:
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Strong academic achievements
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Interest in political and social issues
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Leadership experience
4. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
A project by a political foundation aligned with Germany’s Green Party.
Supports: Master’s or doctoral degrees in Germany
Benefits:
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€850 per month for master’s
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€1,200 per month for PhD students
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Allowances for family and health insurance
Eligibility:
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Academic excellence
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Commitment to environmental, social, or human rights issues
5. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship
Ideal for international students committed to social democracy.
Covers:
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€750 per month for undergraduates
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€850 for master’s
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Full health coverage and family support
Requirement:
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Good academic results
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Social or political involvement
How to Apply for Germany Government Scholarships as a Non-EU Student
Follow these steps to maximize your scholarship application success:
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Check University and Program Requirements
Visit the official university or DAAD scholarship portal relevant to your program of interest. -
Prepare Your Application Documents
Common requirements include:-
Academic transcripts
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CV or Resume
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Motivation letter
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Language certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF)
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Letters of recommendation
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Apply Online
Most scholarship and university applications are processed online through DAAD’s portal, uni-assist, or directly via universities. -
Watch Application Deadlines
Some scholarships require applications before university enrollment, so don’t wait!
Advantages of German Scholarships for International Students
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No repayment required – scholarships are grants, not loans.
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Access to world-class facilities, research labs, and global networks.
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Eligibility for 18-month post-study work visa.
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Many programs are offered in English.
Visa Information for Scholarship Students
Students awarded scholarships receive a letter of award, which can be used to apply for a German student visa (D-visa).
Requirements typically include:
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Scholarship award letter
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Proof of acceptance from a university
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Valid passport
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Proof of financial means (covered by scholarship)
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Health insurance
Final Thoughts
Germany is one of the few countries offering fully-funded public higher education — and thanks to the variety of government-backed scholarships, non-EU students can study for free while also receiving a generous monthly stipend. Whether you’re pursuing research, graduate studies, or professional development, now is the perfect time to apply and give your academic career an international boost.
By focusing your efforts on these prestigious, government-backed awards and executing a flawless application that prioritizes excellence and development impact, you significantly increase your chances of securing a fully funded opportunity in tuition-free Germany in 2026.
Don’t miss your chance – begin your application process today and take the first step towards your future in Germany.