Scholarships in Germany For International Students: Apply, Requirements
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Germany is a great place to study. Many universities don't cost much, and the quality of education is high. But living there costs money. That's where scholarships available for Germany come in! This guide helps you find the best scholarships to study in Germany.
Germany offers you an excellent plethora of opportunities for all parts of your academic life. Be it your bachelor's program or post-doctoral research, Germany has options for all. And if you are looking for a career in research, Germany is indeed a go-to country. However, studying abroad is an expensive affair, and even though studying in Germany (with low or no tuition at its state-run universities) is still cheaper as compared to other countries, it is still expensive to stay there. Candidates should be aware of the cost of living in Germany.
But there is good news for students. A variety of organizations and research institutes offer scholarships to international students, providing them with grants that would sustain the living expenses (or part of the projects) in Germany. This article provides a detailed overview of some of the most best scholarships available in Germany.
One of the primary names for funding your study in Germany is the German Academic Exchange Service or DAAD. The organization helps you not merely shortlist a suitable college but also helps you with a variety of scholarship options depending on your chosen discipline or field of research. Apart from DAAD, many independent research institutes also offer scholarships to students or research scholars. We have tabulated a few famous scholarships for you below.
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- Higher Education in Germany
- Understanding Scholarship Opportunities in Germany
- 🎓 Top Scholarships for International Students in Germany
- Top Government-Funded Scholarships in Germany
- Scholarships from Foundations in Germany
- University-Specific Scholarships in Germany
- Federal State-Specific Scholarships in Germany
- MBA Scholarships in Germany
- How to apply for Scholarships in Germany?
Higher Education in Germany
Before knowing the available scholarships for German Universities, it is important to understand the basics of the German higher education system:
- Public Universities: These are largely tuition-free German universities for both domestic and international students in Bachelor's and Master's programs (though semester fees apply).
- Private Universities: These institutions charge tuition fees, which can be substantial. Scholarships are even more critical in this case.
- Types of Programs: Germany offers a wide array of programs, from traditional Bachelor's and Master's degrees to Ph.D. studies and specialized programs like MBAs.
Understanding Scholarship Opportunities in Germany
Germany is affordable compared to other Western European countries. Public universities are almost free! But you still need money for living expenses. Scholarships help you pay for rent, food, transportation, health insurance, study material, and more.
Types of Scholarships in Germany for International Students 2025
- Government Scholarships: These scholarships are funded by the German government and aim to promote international academic exchange. The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the primary organization responsible for administering these scholarships. One can check the cost of studying in Germany for international students.
- Foundation Scholarships: There are a number of private foundations in Germany that offer scholarships to international students based on academic merit, social engagement, or specific research interests.
- University Scholarships: Many German universities offer their own scholarship programs to attract top international talent. These scholarships are often specific to certain departments or programs.
🎓 Top Scholarships for International Students in Germany
The table below includes the government-funded and most popular scholarships available for international students in Germany:
Top Government-Funded Scholarships in Germany
1. DAAD Scholarships
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the biggest and most popular scholarship program in Germany. It helps students from all over the world who want to do Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Germany.
What it offers:
- €992–€1300 per month (based on your study level)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Some programs also help with tuition costs and language courses
DAAD has many programs for different fields. If you have good grades and a strong application, this is a great option.
2. Erasmus+ Scholarships
Erasmus+ is a scholarship from the European Union. It’s for students who want to study in Germany for a short period (like 1 or 2 semesters) as part of an exchange program.
What it offers:
- Monthly stipend (amount depends on your country)
- Travel costs
- No tuition fees during exchange
You need to be enrolled in a university that has a partnership with a German university. Apply through your home university.
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3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship is for students who are active in society, maybe involved in politics, environment, or human rights. You must also have good academic performance.
Who can apply: International students doing Master’s or PhD at a German university.
What it offers:
- Master’s: €992/month + €300 study money
- PhD: €1400–€1450/month
- Extra support for travel, books, or family if needed
If you care about social or green topics and want to study seriously in Germany, this is a good fit.
4. Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship
This is for students who are interested in politics and democracy. You must have very good academic results and do some kind of volunteering or community work.
Who can apply: Master’s or PhD students from selected countries. In 2025, focus is on students from Mexico, Central Asia, Mongolia.
What it offers:
- €992/month (Master’s) or €1400/month (PhD)
- Health insurance, family support, and more
Important: You need B2 level German to apply.
5. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship
FES helps students who believe in equal rights, democracy, and social justice. It supports students with good grades and community work.
Who can apply: Master’s and PhD students studying at a recognized German university.
What it offers:
- €992/month (Master’s)
- €1400/month (PhD)
- Extra help with insurance or family needs
6. Deutschlandstipendium
This is a national scholarship program in Germany. It supports high-achieving students with extra support from companies or private donors.
Who can apply: Bachelor’s and Master’s students in Germany with good grades and achievements.
What it offers:
- €300/month for at least 2 semesters
- Some universities continue it longer if you do well
How to apply: Through your German university. Each one sets its own rules.
7. Bayer Foundation Fellowships
This is a scholarship for students in science, medical, engineering, and data fields.
Who can apply: Master’s and PhD students who want to do research or internships in Germany or abroad.
What it offers:
- Up to €10,000 for short research trips or internships
- Can cover travel, visa, and project costs
If you are in a science-based subject and want to do real research, this is a good opportunity.
University-Specific Scholarships in Germany
Many German universities offer their own scholarship programs to attract and support international students. It is crucial to research the financial aid sections of your prospective universities. Examples include:
- Humboldt Research Fellowship
- TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship (Technical University of Munich)
- Heidelberg University HAUS Scholarships
- University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships
- Berlin International University of Applied Sciences Christian Wulff Scholarship
Federal State-Specific Scholarships in Germany
Some German states provide scholarships to promote education within their borders. Examples include:
- Baden-Württemberg Stiftung
- Bavaria – Max Weber-Program and Marianne-Plehn-Program
- The Lower Saxony Scholarship (Niedersachsenstipendium)
- Berlin – Elsa Neumann Scholarship
MBA Scholarships in Germany
For those pursuing an MBA in Germany, several business schools offer scholarships:
- ESMT MBA Scholarships
- HHL Leipzig Scholarships
- WHU Otto Beisheim Scholarships
- Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Scholarships
- Mannheim Business School Scholarships
How to apply for Scholarships in Germany?
- Start Early: The application process can be lengthy, so begin your search and preparation well in advance.
- Meet Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review all requirements for each scholarship to ensure you qualify.
- Prepare a Strong Application: Prepare a personal statement that highlights your academic achievements, research interests, and motivations for studying in Germany. Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal qualities.
- Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation: Request letters from professors or mentors who can speak to your abilities and potential.
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in either English or German, depending on the language of instruction for your chosen program. Submit valid language test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or TestDaF) as required.
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure your application is free of grammatical errors and typos.
- Seek Guidance: Consult with your university's international student office or academic advisors for assistance.
- Apply Early: Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to allow ample time for processing. Be prepared to provide additional documents or information if requested by the scholarship provider.
Getting a scholarship to study in Germany can be a life-changing opportunity. By thoroughly researching available scholarships, meeting the eligibility criteria, and preparing a strong application, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving funding. Start your scholarship search early, stay organized, and be persistent.
You can also go through the DAAD Scholarship Database to search for more scholarships. Apart from that, it would be important to mention that you can also reach out to the Admission Offices of different universities in Germany you are applying to understand the various scholarship options available.
Yes, Indian students are eligible for a variety of scholarships in Germany. Many of the major scholarships, such as DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and Erasmus+, are open to students of all nationalities, including Indian students.
No, the DAAD scholarship is not easy to get. It's a highly competitive scholarship program. The DAAD receives a large number of applications from highly qualified students worldwide. To increase your chances of success, focus on:
Having a strong academic record.
Demonstrating clear research goals (if applicable).
Meeting all eligibility requirements.
Crafting a well-written and compelling application.
Not necessarily mandatory, but likely required. The DAAD requires proof of language proficiency, which can often be demonstrated with an IELTS score. However, the specific language requirements and accepted tests vary depending on the programme and the language of instruction. Some programs may accept other English proficiency tests (like TOEFL) or may not require an English test if you can demonstrate proficiency through other means (e.g., if your previous degree was taught entirely in English). One are advised to check the specific DAAD programme details for exact language requirements.
Yes, many universities in Germany require proof of English language proficiency for international students whose first language is not English. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is commonly accepted, with most programs requiring a minimum score of 6.0 to 7.0, depending on the course.
A few of the reasons to study at BSBI Germany campus are:
- Central Location: The main campus of BSBI Germany is located in the heart of Berlin. It is located in the historical building of Alte Post. The neighborhood surrounding the campus has shops, restaurants, and cafes
- Diverse community: When students join BSBI, they are going to witness a diverse student cohort of over 100 nationalities
- Affordable education: Berlin is one of the best value European cities that lead to high-quality education, making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe to live and study in
- Dedicated career and employment support: BSBI Berlin a range of career support services to its students
- Academic excellence: The teachers at the school are experienced industry professionals who pass on their expertise through hands-on teaching methods
The acceptance rate for the IU International University of Applied Science ranges between 40% to 80%, which means the selection process of the university is moderate to highly competitive. Students who hold good academic scores, exam test scores along with all the required documents that help them to secure enrollment in the university.
The acceptance rate shows that out of 100 students, only 40 to 80 students are accepted; therefore, it is also suggested to the students that they should apply at the university before the application deadline or the semester begins as per the details shared by the university.
Hof University is voted the most popular university in Germany for 2024. It continues to receive the highest marks for teaching. These rankings are as per the ranking published by the renowned portal Studycheck.de. More than 40 bachelor’s and master’s programs in Computer Science, Business, Engineering as well as Interdisciplinary and Innovative Science are offered by the university. Also, the teaching at this university is based on innovative methods to convey application-oriented knowledge.
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
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3 years ago
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3 years ago
Hello, Bandana You can check out our popular universities in Germany providing MBA studies here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany Every university mentioned on the list has top courses and the fee structure for all courses at the university. You can also get in touch with our Shiksha Counsel
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4 years ago
Hello Deeksha. You can check our guide on Studying MBBS abroad here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/study-mbbs-abroad-eligibility-colleges-fees-exams-jobs-articlepage-2551 You can also know about public universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/list-of-public-universities-in-ge
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4 years ago
Hello Riya. Thank you for writing in. You can check out a list of popular universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany You can also know about the top courses offered in every university, tuition fees, and duration of study for each. You can also contact our counselors for
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4 years ago
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4 years ago
Hello Sreeram. Thank you for writing in. Do check out the following websites: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/top-universities-that-offer-automotive-engineering-from-germany-articlepage-583 https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany/ms-in-automotive-colleges-ds
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4 years ago
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4 years ago
Hello Sarbajit. You can check out popular universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany. you are advised to check the eligibility criteria for admissions and proceed accordingly. PR would follow as per the rule of the land.
Getting a full scholarship in Germany, meaning one that covers both tuition (if applicable, though many public universities are tuition-free) and living expenses, is competitive but possible. Here's a general approach:
Excellent Academic Record: Strong grades and achievements are crucial.
Research Scholarship Options: Identify scholarships that align with your field of study, nationality, and academic level. DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and others are excellent starting points. Check university-specific scholarships too.
Meet Eligibility Requirements: Carefully review and ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including language proficiency, academic qualifications, and any specific requirements related to your background or field of study.
Prepare a Strong Application: Highlight your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, research experience, and personal qualities in your application. A compelling personal statement is essential.
Strong Letters of Recommendation: Obtain strong letters from professors or mentors who can attest to your abilities and potential.
Apply Early: Start the application process well in advance of deadlines.
Apply to Multiple Scholarships: Increase your chances by applying for multiple scholarships for which you are eligible.