Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026 | Fully Funded Opportunities
The Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026 provide international students with one of the most comprehensive funding opportunities in the world. The German Academic Exchange Service, widely known by its German acronym DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst), has supported millions of scholars since its establishment in 1925. With more than 100,000 scholarships awarded each year, DAAD is considered the largest funding provider for higher education and research worldwide.
One unique feature of DAAD Scholarships is that they also extend support to dependents of awardees, making them more inclusive than many other scholarship schemes. This ensures that scholars and their families can comfortably focus on academics and research during their stay in Germany.
Quick Summary of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026
- Provider: Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD)
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded (stipend, travel allowance, insurance, family support)
- Eligibility: International students across undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral levels
- Fields Supported: Arts, engineering, sciences, economics, social sciences, medicine, law, and more
- Application Platform: DAAD Scholarship Database
- Scholarship Programs Available: Over 182 programs across various academic levels and disciplines
What are DAAD Scholarships?
The DAAD Scholarships are funded opportunities offered by the German Academic Exchange Service to encourage international students to pursue their studies, research, or training in Germany. Since 1925, DAAD has supported over 2.5 million German and international scholars, providing them with access to language courses, degree programs, and short-term training.
The DAAD offers funding for:
- Undergraduate programs
- Graduate programs
- Doctoral and postdoctoral programs
- Short-term summer schools
- Research stays and internships
This makes the DAAD not only a scholarship body but also a critical institution for fostering international academic cooperation.
DAAD Funding Programs in Germany: Levels and Fields of Study
The Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026 span a wide range of academic levels and fields of study. With more than 182 scholarship programs listed in the DAAD Scholarship Database, students from all continents can find suitable opportunities.
Levels of DAAD Scholarships
- Undergraduate Scholarships
- Master’s Scholarships
- Doctoral Scholarships
- Postdoctoral Scholarships
Academic Fields Funded
- Arts, Music, and Sport
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics and Natural Sciences
- Law, Economics, and Social Sciences
- Languages and Cultural Studies
- Veterinary Medicine and Agricultural Sciences
- Nutrition, Ecology, and Environmental Sciences
Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026
Choosing the right DAAD Scholarship depends on your academic level, field of study, and career aspirations. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most popular and fully funded DAAD Scholarships available in 2026.
1. DAAD University Summer Courses in Germany 2026
The DAAD University Summer Courses are designed for foreign undergraduates and graduates. These courses take place between June and September every year and are an excellent opportunity to gain academic knowledge, improve German language skills, and enhance cultural understanding.
Benefits:
- Scholarship payment of €1,367
- Travel allowance
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
This program strengthens CVs and boosts employability, making it one of the most accessible DAAD opportunities for international students.
2. DAAD Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports around 1,500 students annually, including undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral candidates from Germany and abroad. It targets students with strong commitments to democracy, ecology, sustainability, and human rights.
Benefits:
- €11,208 annual stipend
- Mobility allowance
- Family and childcare support
- Health insurance
Ideal for students interested in political development and environmental studies.
3. DAAD Study Scholarships for All Disciplines (Master’s)
The DAAD Master’s Scholarship offers postgraduate students the chance to continue their education in Germany across all disciplines—from engineering and sciences to arts, economics, and education.
Benefits:
- €11,908 annual stipend
- Travel allowance
- Research and study grants
- Accommodation support
This program ensures access to fully funded graduate scholarships in Germany for international students.
4. DAAD Study Scholarship for STEM Disciplines
Students with a background in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) are eligible for this scholarship. It encourages innovation and technical research.
Benefits:
- €11,904 annual stipend
- Research allowance
- Travel and accommodation costs
- Family support packages
This program is essential for those pursuing cutting-edge careers in STEM.
5. DAAD Study Scholarship in Architecture
This program supports students in architecture, urban development, interior design, landscape planning, and surveying.
Benefits:
- €11,904 stipend annually
- Research and rent subsidies
- Travel and insurance support
It fosters future professionals in urban planning and sustainable architecture.
6. DAAD MIDE Scholarship (Master’s in International and Development Economics)
The MIDE Scholarship is an 18-month Master’s program offered in English. It is tailored for students with backgrounds in economics, business administration, or social sciences.
Benefits:
- €11,904 stipend annually
- Travel costs covered
- Rent and health insurance subsidies
This program trains leaders in global economic development.
7. DAAD EPOS Scholarship (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses)
The DAAD EPOS Program funds students from developing countries to study development-related Master’s and Doctoral courses.
Fields Covered: Economics, engineering, agriculture, health sciences, education, arts, and law.
Benefits:
- Full scholarship covering tuition, stipend, and research
- Accommodation and travel allowance
8. DAAD In-Country/In-Region Scholarships for Africans
This regional program supports African students pursuing Master’s or Doctoral degrees within sub-Saharan universities.
Benefits:
- Full funding for study, living, and research expenses
- Strengthens African institutions and regional networks
This is particularly important for those who cannot travel abroad but wish to access DAAD-supported programs.
9. DAAD Leadership for Africa Scholarship
The Leadership for Africa (LfA) Scholarship supports both refugees and national scholars from Africa to pursue Master’s studies in Germany.
Exclusions: Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Medicine, Fine Arts, Law, and Architecture.
This scholarship builds future African leaders equipped with global academic training.
10. DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship (Public Policy and Good Governance)
The Helmut Schmidt Scholarship supports graduates in political science, law, economics, and administration. It prepares scholars for leadership positions in government and public service.
Benefits:
- Fully funded Master’s program
- Leadership development
- Preparation for top political and policy positions
This is one of the most competitive DAAD scholarships for leadership training.
How to Select the Right Types of DAAD Scholarships
With such a wide range of programs, selecting the right DAAD Scholarship requires careful research.
Steps to Choose Effectively:
- Visit the DAAD Scholarship Database.
- Filter by country, academic program, purpose, and subject field.
- Use the “Refine Your Selection” feature to generate tailored results.
This ensures you find scholarships aligned with your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many types of DAAD Scholarships are available in 2026?
There are more than 182 DAAD programs available in 2026, covering undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and postdoctoral levels across multiple fields.
2. Who is eligible for DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026?
International students from all continents, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America, can apply. Eligibility depends on the program level, field, and applicant’s academic background.
3. Are DAAD Scholarships fully funded?
Yes. Most DAAD Scholarships are fully funded, covering tuition fees, living stipends, travel allowances, health insurance, and in some cases, family support.
4. Can undergraduate students apply for DAAD Scholarships?
Yes. While DAAD is well-known for postgraduate funding, there are programs such as DAAD University Summer Courses that cater to undergraduate students.
5. What fields of study are supported by DAAD Scholarships?
DAAD Scholarships cover nearly all fields, including engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, economics, arts, cultural studies, medicine, and law.
6. How do I apply for DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026?
Applications must be submitted via the DAAD Scholarship Database. Applicants should filter programs by their country, level of study, and discipline, then follow the instructions provided.
Final Thoughts
The Types of DAAD Scholarships in Germany 2026 offer international students unparalleled opportunities to study, research, and develop professionally in Germany. With programs available for undergraduates, graduates, doctoral students, and postdoctoral researchers across every major field, DAAD stands as a global leader in academic funding.
Whether you are interested in STEM fields, social sciences, architecture, economics, or leadership training, there is a DAAD scholarship tailored for you. By carefully selecting from the DAAD database, you can secure a program that not only funds your studies but also prepares you for a globally relevant career.