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🇩🇪 DAAD Scholarship Guide 2025: Your Gateway to Studying in Germany

✨ What Is the DAAD Scholarship?

The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is Germany’s official Academic Exchange Service, a non-profit organization that funds international students and researchers pursuing master's or doctoral programs at public universities across Germany. Highly competitive and widely respected, the DAAD scholarship is a golden ticket to high-quality, tuition-free education and research opportunities.

In countries like Russia, only around 1 in 10–12 applicants successfully receive the award, making preparation and precision key factors in winning.

âś… Who Can Apply?

DAAD supports bachelor’s and master’s graduates who wish to continue their education in Germany in a relevant academic field. One important restriction is that your latest academic diploma (bachelor’s or master’s) must have been earned within the past 6 years. In addition to degree-seeking students, there are specialized research grants for PhD candidates, early-career scholars, and postdocs working on academic projects across diverse disciplines.

📝 Core Requirements

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Language proficiency: B2–C1 level in German or English, depending on the language of instruction.
  • Academic excellence: Strong grades and relevant academic background.
  • University admission: You must provide proof of acceptance or enrollment at a state-accredited German university.

Keep in mind: your admission is not required before applying for the scholarship, but must be submitted to begin funding.

đź’¶ Financial Support

DAAD offers a monthly stipend of €992, which aligns with Germany’s BaföG (federal student support scheme). The scholarship duration typically spans 2 to 4 semesters depending on the length of the study program.

Additional benefits include:

  • One-time relocation allowance
  • Partial reimbursement of flight costs
  • Full coverage of health insurance
  • In some cases, support for family members if they accompany the student

⚠️ Note: If you study at a private university, DAAD will not cover tuition fees. The program is designed for public higher education institutions.

📆 When and How to Apply

The general application deadline is November 15, but it may vary by program. Make sure to check the official DAAD Russia or international website for the specific timeline and up-to-date scholarship offers. You’ll need to prepare and upload your documents through the DAAD’s dedicated portal.

🛠️ Can You Work While Studying?

Yes! But there's a catch. If your earnings exceed €450/month, the excess will be deducted from your DAAD stipend. It’s best to take part-time work that’s compatible with your studies and visa conditions.

đź“‚ Required Documents

The list is fairly standard but must be professionally prepared:

  • Updated CV in tabular form (Europass recommended)
  • Certified university diploma(s) and transcripts
  • School leaving certificate
  • Motivation letter (maximum 2 pages)
  • Letter(s) of recommendation from academic supervisors
  • Valid language proficiency certificate (TOEFL, IELTS, TestDaF, etc.)
  • Optional: portfolio, publications, or documents showing social involvement or leadership

📚 Studying in Germany: What to Expect

Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition, making the DAAD scholarship even more appealing. However, each semester, students must pay a small administrative contribution fee (usually €100–€350), which often includes public transport. Your academic life will revolve around research, lectures, and possibly internships. The German system values independence, so expect fewer contact hours and more self-directed learning.

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