Scholarships in Germany

Studying in Germany with a scholarship

Germany attracts international students because it combines a strong university system with relatively affordable public higher education. At most state-funded universities, students do not pay general tuition fees for bachelor’s programmes and many master’s programmes. However, students still pay semester contributions, and tuition fees can apply at private universities, some specialised programmes, and in certain federal states. Baden-Württemberg, for example, charges many non-EU students EUR 1,500 per semester, while some universities in Bavaria can also charge international tuition fees.

That means students should never assume that studying in Germany is completely free. Before applying, check the exact tuition policy of the university and programme you are interested in.

Main scholarship opportunities

The German Academic Exchange Service, better known as DAAD, is one of the most important sources of scholarship funding for international students who want to study or conduct research in Germany.

DAAD programmes are not all the same. Some are aimed at master’s students, others at doctoral candidates, researchers, graduates from developing countries, or applicants in specific academic fields. Each scholarship has its own eligibility rules, deadlines, participating countries and application process.

Applicants should therefore check the individual scholarship call rather than relying on general DAAD information. DAAD also makes clear that receiving a scholarship does not automatically guarantee admission to a German university. In many programmes, applicants must still apply separately to the university and secure admission.

Some DAAD scholarships provide a monthly stipend, travel support, insurance and other allowances. For example, certain master’s scholarships currently provide around EUR 992 per month, although benefits vary by programme. DAAD generally does not automatically pay university tuition fees, so applicants still need to check whether their chosen institution charges tuition.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements in Germany depend on your previous education and the university you are applying to.

For undergraduate study, your secondary-school qualification must normally be recognised as equivalent to a German higher education entrance qualification. Depending on the country where your certificate was issued, you may need previous university study or a preparatory programme known as a Studienkolleg before beginning a degree.

Master’s applicants generally need a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Doctoral applicants normally need an appropriate postgraduate qualification and, depending on the programme, may also need a research proposal and academic supervisor.

Language requirements also vary. English-taught programmes usually require proof of English proficiency, while German-taught programmes normally require recognised German-language evidence. Students should check the exact requirement on the university’s official programme page because there is no single language score that applies to every German university.

Living costs and financial planning

Even when tuition is low or completely waived, students still need to budget carefully for accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation and other living expenses.

DAAD estimates that students may need roughly EUR 900 to EUR 1,200 per month depending on where they live. Rent is usually the largest expense, and costs can differ significantly between cities. Students are also normally required to pay a semester contribution, which varies by university.

International applicants who need a German student visa must also be able to prove that they have sufficient financial resources. For 2026, the German government states that students can demonstrate financial means through methods such as a blocked account, recognised scholarship or declaration of commitment. The blocked-account requirement is currently EUR 11,904 for the year.

This amount can change, so applicants should confirm the latest figure with the German diplomatic mission or official German government website before beginning a visa application.

What applicants should pay attention to

Do not apply for a scholarship simply because the title says “fully funded.” Read the official scholarship call carefully and check exactly what is covered.

Also pay attention to whether:

• the scholarship application and university admission are separate processes
• your nationality is eligible
• your previous degree is accepted
• professional experience is required
• the programme is taught in English or German
• the scholarship covers tuition fees
• there are restrictions on how long ago you graduated
• you need an admission letter before applying
• additional documents such as recommendation letters, research proposals or work certificates are required

Starting early is particularly important for Germany because university admission, scholarship selection and visa preparation can involve separate timelines.

Final advice

Germany offers strong opportunities for international students, particularly at master’s, doctoral and research level, but applicants should compare programmes carefully rather than assuming every opportunity has the same requirements.

Use the scholarship listings below as a starting point, then always read the official university or scholarship-provider page before submitting an application. Scholarship deadlines, funding amounts and eligibility rules can change from one application cycle to another.