Top Scholarships in Germany For International Students: Apply, Requirements

Best Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students

Choosing a scholarship can be confusing because each one looks for something different. Some want high grades, while others want work experience or social work. Here is a simple breakdown of the top 5 scholarships for Indian students in 2026.

DAAD Scholarship (EPOS)

This is the most famous scholarship for Master's and PhD students. It is perfect if you already have some work experience in your field.

• Who can apply: Indian graduates with at least 2 years of professional work experience. Your last degree should not be more than 6 years old.

• Money: You get €934 per month for Master's and €1,300 for PhD. They also pay for your flights and health insurance.

• Key Requirement: A strong Motivation Letter and an 8.5 CGPA (around 85%) is usually needed to be competitive.

• Deadline: Usually between August and October for the next year.

Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters

This is a unique program where you study in at least two or three different European countries. It is very prestigious and highly competitive.

• Who can apply: Any student with a Bachelor's degree. India is often the top country for winners of this award!

• Money: You get a monthly stipend of €1,000 to €1,400. It covers all your tuition fees, travel costs, and visa fees.

• Key Requirement: You must choose a specific "Joint Master" program from the Erasmus Catalogue. You can apply for up to three different programs.

• Deadline: Most applications open in October and close in January/February.

Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)

This is a merit-based scholarship that is open to all nationalities and all subjects. Half the money comes from the government and half from private companies.

• Who can apply: Students already enrolled or about to start at a German university (Bachelor's or Master's).

• Money:€300 per month. It is not "fully funded" like DAAD, but it is much easier to get if you have top grades.

• Key Requirement: High marks and social commitment (volunteering, sports, or student clubs).

• Deadline: Varies by university, but often around January or April.

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship

If you are passionate about the environment, human rights, or politics, this is the one for you. They focus on students who want to make a change in the world.

• Who can apply: International students (non-EU) for Master’s or PhD programs.

• Money: Around €934 per month plus extra allowances for books and families.

• Key Requirement: You must have German language skills (B2 or C1 level) to apply. They also look for "social engagement" on your CV.

• Deadline: Twice a year; usually March 1st and September 1st.

Germany Fastlane Scholarship (Max Yoko)

This is a newer, private scholarship designed to help with the blocked account problem that many Indian students face.

• Who can apply: Students starting a degree in Winter Semester 2026. It is open to all subjects and ages.

• Money: A total of €12,000 for the first year (paid as €1,000 per month).

• Key Requirement: Instead of a long essay, you submit a 1-2 minute video explaining your motivation and how the Max Yoko YouTube channel helped you.

• Deadline: April 30, 2026.

Which universities in Germany offer tuition-free education with scholarships?

Nearly all public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education to international students. However, while the classes are free, the university does not usually give you money for rent or food unless you apply for a specific scholarship.

Important Note for Indian Students: Even if the university is free, you still need to show about €11,904 in a blocked account for your visa. Winning one of the scholarships above can help you cover this amount.

How can I study in Germany with a full scholarship?

Studying in Germany with a full scholarship is not just about having high grades; it is about choosing the right funding path and planning at least 6 to 12 months in advance. Because most German public universities have zero fees, a "full scholarship" in Germany usually means a monthly stipend that covers your blocked account requirements, health insurance, and travel costs.

Identify the Right Funding Category

Not all scholarships are the same. You need to match your profile to the provider:

• Government-Funded

• Foundation-Based

• Private/Independent

Document Requirements

Most selection committees in Germany focus on three specific documents:

• CV

• SOP

• LOR

Meet the Language and APS Requirements

For Indian students, getting the APS Certificate is now a mandatory first step before you can even apply for a visa or many scholarships. Additionally, while many courses are in English, having a German A1 or A2 certificate shows the scholarship committee that you are serious about integrating into German society.

Apply via Online Portals

Most major scholarships, especially the DAAD scholarship, require you to register on their official portals (like the DAAD Portal). You will upload your PDFs and track your status there. Remember, for the Winter Semester 2026, many of these portals will close as early as October or November 2025, so starting now is critical.