Top 10 Scholarships for International Students in Germany (2026–27)

1. DAAD Scholarships (Various Programmes)

Germany’s premier scholarship organisation offers a wide range of programmes for international students—master’s, doctoral, postdocs, and study trips. These cover tuition, living stipend, travel, and research costs. Programmes include the Research Grants for Postgraduates and the Development‑Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) for professional applicants.

2. DAAD-DEiP / Gilman‑DAAD Germany Scholarship

For U.S. undergraduates receiving Pell Grants, this programme funds a year of study or internship in Germany with awards of up to USD 5,000 to cover tuition, travel, and living costs.

3. Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowships

Prestigious fellowships for postdoctoral researchers worldwide, offering up to 700 awards annually, multidisciplinary support, and generous stipends for research in Germany.

4. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

Offered by the Green political foundation, these merit-based awards support bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students (around 1,000 recipients annually), focusing on academic excellence, activism, and social responsibility. Both German and international students are welcome.

5. Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarships

Federally funded merit scholarships for about 800 students, including many international awardees. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership potential, and civic engagement aligned with liberal values.

6. Hanns Seidel Foundation Scholarships

A political foundation affiliated with CSU, offering funding to international students pursuing degrees in Germany, selecting candidates based on merit, leadership, and thematic fit. This includes course-based and doctoral studies.

7. Erasmus+ Joint Master Degree Scholarships

EU-funded programmes delivering joint master’s degrees across multiple universities including German institutions. Scholarships cover tuition, living costs, insurance, and travel.

8. International Parliamentary Scholarship (German Bundestag IPS)

A five-month fully funded internship (March–July) in Berlin for international graduates, offering placements in Bundestag offices and academic institutions. Participants gain insights into German parliamentary practices and policymaking.

9. Study Grants at Select Universities (e.g. RWTH Aachen, University of Hamburg)

Many German universities offer merit-based grants or fee waivers to outstanding master’s students, such as degree completion grants or exchange scholarships at RWTH Aachen and University of Hamburg.

10. DAAD EPOS / Development-Related Scholarships

Targeted at professionals from developing countries with a few years’ work experience. Covers master’s or postgrad studies aligned with development goals. Includes living stipend, travel, and tuition fees.

 Quick Comparison

 Why Study in Germany with These Scholarships?

• Highly competitive and fully funded: Many programmes eliminate tuition costs altogether and offer significant stipends.
• Academic excellence and research support: Germany ranks among top global research destinations.
• Structured networks & alumni support: Foundations provide mentorship, events, and career growth opportunities.
• Cultural diversity and inclusivity: Scholarships support social justice, pluralism, and global dialogue across disciplines.