Top list of Fully Funded scholarships in Germany for International Students for 2026/2027

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Pursue Your Dreams with Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany: Here is your Ultimate Guide to Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students.

For international students, the dream of studying in Europe often comes with a high price tag. But what if you could study in a country known for its academic excellence, robust economy, and rich cultural history—for free? Germany makes this possible. With its world-class universities and extensive support for international talent, it stands as a top destination for scholars worldwide. The key to unlocking this opportunity lies in securing one of the many fully funded scholarships in Germany.

This comprehensive guide is your roadmap to navigating the landscape of fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students. We will explore the top programs, break down the application process, and provide you with the insider tips you need to transform your dream into reality.

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Why Choose Germany for Your Studies?

Before diving into the scholarships, it’s important to understand why Germany is such a magnet for students from across the globe. The reasons are compelling:

  • Affordable Education: Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, even for international students. You are only required to pay a nominal semester contribution covering administrative costs and a public transport ticket. This policy makes Germany one of the most affordable Western European study destinations.
  • World-Class Education: German degrees are globally recognized and respected. The country is a powerhouse in engineering, natural sciences, and humanities, offering a diverse range of programs, including over 2,000 courses taught entirely in English.
  • Strong Economy & Career Opportunities: Germany boasts the largest economy in Europe. Studying here provides unparalleled access to industry leaders, internships, and post-graduation job opportunities, especially in high-demand fields like engineering, IT, and research.
  • Cultural and Central Hub: Living in Germany means immersing yourself in a country with profound historical roots and a vibrant contemporary culture. Its central location in Europe also makes it a perfect base for exploring neighboring countries.

What Does “Fully Funded” Really Mean in Germany?

A fully funded scholarship in Germany is designed to lift the financial burden entirely from the student. It typically covers more than just tuition. A comprehensive package includes:

  • Monthly Stipend: A fixed amount to cover your living expenses, including rent, food, and personal costs. For example, DAAD scholarships for graduates offer €992 per month, while doctoral candidates receive €1,300.
  • Tuition Fee Coverage: While most public universities are tuition-free, some programs (especially at private universities or in certain federal states) charge fees. A fully funded scholarship takes care of these costs.
  • Health and Accident Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance is mandatory in Germany and is a standard component of most major scholarships.
  • Travel Allowance: Many scholarships, like those from DAAD, provide a travel grant to help cover the cost of your flight to and from Germany.
  • Study and Research Allowances: This can include an annual payment to cover academic expenses like books, laboratory materials, or conference attendance.

In essence, fully funded scholarships in Germany allow you to focus entirely on your studies and research without financial stress.

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The Top List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany

Here is a detailed breakdown of the most prestigious and generous fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students, categorized by your level of study.

For Master’s Degree Students

1. DAAD Scholarships

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the world’s largest funding organization for international academic exchange and a primary address for anyone seeking a fully funded scholarship in Germany.

  • Who Can Apply: International graduates from all disciplines who wish to pursue a Master’s or PhD in Germany. Requirements include a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of professional experience.
  • What It Covers: A typical DAAD fully funded scholarship includes a monthly stipend of €992 for graduates, payments towards health insurance, a travel allowance, and a study and research allowance. For PhD students, the monthly stipend is €1,300.
  • Application Tip: DAAD values academic excellence, a compelling study proposal, and the potential to contribute to your home country’s development. The application deadline for many programs falls between August and October each year.

2. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Degrees (EMJMD)

This prestigious EU program offers integrated international study across a consortium of European universities, making it a unique form of a fully funded scholarship in Germany and other participating countries.

  • Who Can Apply: Talented students worldwide holding a bachelor’s degree. The program is highly competitive.
  • What It Covers: The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend (around €1,400), travel costs, and insurance for the entire duration of the program.
  • Application Tip: You apply directly to the specific Erasmus Mundus consortium offering your chosen course. Deadlines are typically between October and January.

3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

This foundation is affiliated with the German Green Party and supports students who demonstrate excellent academic records and a commitment to green values, social justice, and political engagement.

  • Who Can Apply: International Master’s and PhD students of all subjects at state-recognized universities in Germany.
  • What It Covers: Non-EU Master’s students receive €992 per month plus various allowances, including health insurance. PhD students receive €1,400 per month, plus a €100 mobility allowance and other individual allowances.
  • Application Tip: Your application must strongly reflect your socio-political engagement and alignment with the foundation’s values. Deadlines are March 1st and September 1st each year.

4. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship

This foundation, close to the CDU political party, supports international students and doctoral researchers who demonstrate above-average academic achievement and active voluntary work for democracy and human rights.

  • Who Can Apply: International graduates and PhD students who possess a first university degree and German language skills at level B2.
  • What It Covers: Master’s students receive €992 per month for two years. PhD students receive €1,400 per month for three years. Additional benefits include health insurance subsidies, family and child allowances.
  • Application Tip: The application process often involves a focus on specific countries each year. Check the KAS website for target regions. The deadline for applications from within Germany is July 15 each year.

For PhD & Postdoctoral Researchers

1. DAAD Research Grants

DAAD offers a suite of funding opportunities for doctoral candidates, making it a leading source for a fully funded PhD in Germany for international students.

  • Who Can Apply: Highly qualified PhD candidates, recent PhDs, and experienced researchers from around the world.
  • What It Covers: As mentioned, a monthly stipend of €1,300 for doctoral candidates, travel allowance, health insurance, and a research allowance.
  • Application Tip: DAAD offers grants for individual, supervised doctoral projects as well as for participation in structured PhD programs like International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS).

2. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships

A premier program by the European Commission, MSCA supports postdoctoral researchers in all disciplines, emphasizing mobility and career development.

  • Who Can Apply: Researchers of any nationality who hold a doctoral degree and have less than eight years of research experience.
  • What It Covers: The fellowship provides a competitive salary, a mobility allowance, family allowance (if applicable), and funds for research and training activities.
  • Application Tip: The application process is highly competitive, with evaluation based on Excellence, Impact, and Implementation. The next call is expected from April to September 2026.

3. Research Grants at Leading Institutes

Germany’s network of non-university research institutes offers outstanding opportunities for a fully funded PhD in Germany for international students.

  • Max Planck Institutes (IMPRS): International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) offer structured doctoral programs in English across a wide range of scientific disciplines, providing full funding, mentorship, and state-of-the-art facilities.
  • Fraunhofer Institutes: These institutes focus on applied research. PhD students can complete their doctorate while working on cutting-edge technology projects, often funded through employment contracts.
  • Leibniz Association & Helmholtz Association: Similar to Max Planck, these organizations run numerous graduate schools and offer positions for doctoral researchers in interdisciplinary fields.

For All Levels (Including Bachelor’s)

1. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)

This national scholarship program supports talented students at all levels based on academic achievement and personal accomplishments.

  • Who Can Apply: Both German and international students enrolled at a state or state-recognized higher education institution. Financial need is not a criterion.
  • What It Covers: It provides €300 per month for at least two semesters. The funding is provided jointly by the federal government and private sponsors
  • Application Tip: You apply directly through your German university. Deadlines and requirements vary significantly by institution, so check your university’s website regularly

How to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany: Your Roadmap to Success

Securing a fully funded scholarship in Germany is a marathon, not a sprint. A strategic and well-prepared application is your most critical asset.

Step 1: Start Early and Research Thoroughly

Begin your search at least 12-15 months before your intended start date. Use the official DAAD scholarship database to filter opportunities by your country, subject, and level of study. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; apply to multiple scholarships to increase your chances.

Step 2: Prepare a Stellar Application Package

Most applications for fully funded scholarships in Germany require a standard set of documents. Quality is paramount.

  • Motivation Letter: This is your story. It should be 1-3 pages long and explain your academic and personal reasons for choosing the specific program and Germany. Connect your past achievements with your future goals and explicitly state how you align with the scholarship provider’s mission. Be specific, be passionate, and be authentic.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV): Use a clear, reverse-chronological format. Highlight your academic journey, research experience, publications, internships, and, crucially, any voluntary work or social engagement. Many German foundations place a high value on extracurricular commitment.
  • Letters of Recommendation: Choose professors or employers who know you and your work well. Provide them with your CV, transcript, and a summary of your goals well in advance of the deadline. Two academic references are typically required.
  • Academic Transcripts and Certificates: You will need officially certified copies of your previous degrees, often with a certified translation if they are not in English or German.
  • Proof of Language Proficiency: Whether your program is in English or German, you must provide standardized test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, TestDaF, DSH). Check the specific requirements of both the scholarship and your university program.

Step 3: Meet the Deadline and Submit Flawlessly

Pay close attention to the specific submission guidelines. Is it an online portal or a postal application? Ensure all documents are correctly formatted and uploaded. Even a small oversight can lead to disqualification.

Pro Tips for a Standout Application

  1. Tailor Every Application: Never use a generic motivation letter. Research the values of each funding organization (e.g., social democracy for Friedrich Ebert, environmentalism for Heinrich Böll) and reflect them in your essays
  2. Showcase Social Engagement: German scholarship providers, especially the “Begabtenförderungswerke” (13 talent promotion foundations), look for more than just grades. They seek the “personality.” Document any volunteer work, club memberships, or leadership roles you have held
  3. Network: If possible, connect with current or former scholarship holders on platforms like LinkedIn. Their insights can be invaluable.
  4. Proofread, Then Proofread Again: A clean, error-free application demonstrates professionalism and attention to detail. Ask a friend or mentor to review your documents.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I need to speak German to get a fully funded scholarship in Germany?
Not necessarily. Many Master’s and PhD programs, especially in STEM fields, are taught in English. However, having German skills significantly expands your options and is often required for scholarships from political foundations. It also greatly enriches your daily life in Germany.

Can I work while on a scholarship?
Yes, within limits. Student visa regulations typically allow you to work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. However, some scholarships may have their own restrictions, so it’s important to check the specific terms of your award.

Is there an age limit for applying?
Generally, no. Most DAAD programs, for instance, do not have a fixed age limit. However, they often stipulate that no more than a certain number of years should have passed since you earned your last degree. Exceptions are made for childcare, military service, or other valid reasons.

What is a blocked account, and do I need one if I have a scholarship?
A blocked account (Sperrkonto) is a standard financial proof requirement for a German student visa. If your scholarship’s monthly stipend meets or exceeds the required amount (currently €947 per month), you are typically exempt from opening a blocked account. Always confirm with the German embassy.

Your Future in Germany Awaits

The journey to securing one of the many fully funded scholarships in Germany is undoubtedly challenging. It demands dedication, impeccable preparation, and patience. However, the reward—a world-class education in the heart of Europe, free from financial worry—is immeasurable.

Use this guide as your starting point. Dive deep into the links provided, tailor your story, and present your best self. Your dream of studying in Germany with a fully funded scholarship is within reach. Start your application journey today!

For more detailed information on fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students and to search for scholarships, visit the official DAAD Scholarship Database.