The application phase for the DAAD scholarship for the winter semester (September/October) will end on 15 July.
Germany offers fully funded scholarships like the DAAD Scholarships and Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships to help international students cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs. With €351.3 billion invested in education, science, and research, Germany is dedicated to supporting students from all backgrounds.
In addition to scholarships, the education system in Germany is free to both domestic and international students, enabling more than 4 lakh students to study. This makes it easier for you to pursue a world-class education without worrying about high costs. The purpose of this blog is to show you how to take advantage of these opportunities and make your study in Germany a dream come true.
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Germany: An Overview
Fully funded scholarship covers all or most of the tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and health insurance for international students studying in Germany, including 75,000 researchers. These scholarships are typically awarded by German government agencies, universities, and private foundations, making study in Germany free.
The aim is to make studying in Germany accessible to talented students from around the world. Scholarships can be highly competitive, with specific eligibility criteria that students must meet.
Here's an overview of fully funded scholarships for international students in Germany.
Now that you've had an overview of fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students, let's explore the various scholarships available for international students in the country.
Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Germany for Different Study Levels
Fully funded scholarships in Germany not only cover the cost of study but also living costs and miscellaneous expenses like health insurance,making the life of students in Germany easy. For postgraduate and doctoral students, fellowships are offered that also cover research funding and travel allowances.
Here is a breakdown of fully funded scholarships for international students in Germany.
Undergraduate Scholarships for International Students in Germany
Undergraduate students can apply for the Albert Einstein Fellowship, which covers tuition fees and other expenses. In addition, the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship covers tuition and provides a monthly allowance of €992 (INR 95.1K).
Below are undergraduate scholarship options.
Scholarship
Type
Details
DAAD Undergraduate Scholarships
Government-funded
Eligibility: High-achieving students from developing countries.
Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living expenses of €992 (INR 95.1K), health insurance, and travel allowance.
Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship
Foundation-Based
Eligibility: Undergraduate international students with excellent academic records
Benefits: Full tuition and monthly living expenses of €992 (INR 95.1K), subsidies, and family allowances.
Postgraduate Scholarships for International Students in Germany
International students can apply for Erasmus Mundus, which offers full tuition coverage and additional expenses. There are also options like the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships, which cover tuition and provide an additional monthly allowance of €934 (INR 89.4K) for a master's in Germany.
Here are different scholarship options for postgraduate students.
Scholarship
Type
Details
The German Bundestag Scholarship Program
Government-funded
Eligibility: International students enrolled in a higher education institute.
Benefits: Allowance of €700 (INR 67K), full living expenses, travel allowance, and health insurance.
Erasmus+
Government-funded
Eligibility: International students pursuing postgraduate programs at participating German universities
Benefits: Full tuition, travel, and living expenses, along with insurance coverage
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
Foundation-Based
Eligibility: Admission to a Master's degree course at a state or state-recognised institution.
Benefits: Full tuition, monthly living expenses of €934 (INR 89.4K), and travel allowances
PhD Scholarships for International Students in Germany
As a PhD student in Germany, you can apply for foundation-based scholarships like the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation, which provides a stipend of €1,350 (INR 1.3L) along with additional research costs. There are also university-funded options like the Friedrich Schiller University Scholarship, which offers a monthly stipend of €1,400 (INR 1.3L), along with additional expenses.
Here are some popular scholarship options.
Scholarship
Type
Details
Friedrich Schiller University Jena - Graduate Scholarships
University-funded
Eligibility: International doctoral candidates
Benefits: Monthly stipend of €1,400 (INR 1.3L), with the possibility of extra payments for child care.
The Hans Böckler Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
Foundation-based
Eligibility: International students researching in fields like economics and humanities.
Benefits: Monthly living expenses of €1,550 (INR 1.5L), annual travel allowance of €1,400 (INR 1.3L).
Rosa Luxemburg Foundation Scholarship
Foundation-based
Eligibility: Foreign doctoral students with excellent academic performance and social engagement.
Benefits: Full tuition fees, living expenses of €1350 (INR 1.3L), research cost of €100 (INR 9.5K), and health insurance.
Klaus Murmann Scholarship
Foundation-based
Eligibility: International doctoral student with high academic performance.
Benefits: Full tuition, living allowance of €1550 (INR 1.4L), research allowance of €100 (INR 9.5K), family allowance of €155 (INR 4.8K), and health insurance.
Bayer Foundations Scholarship for PhD Students
Foundation-based
Eligibility: PhD students in fields like agriculture science, medical science and more.
Benefits: €10000 (INR 9.5L) for research projects, internships and more
After exploring fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students to overcome financial burdens, let's examine universities that offer such scholarships.
Top Universities Providing Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
The 400+ German universities have made significant strides in funding scholarships, with a total of €33 million raised for scholarships in the past year, showing a 3% increase from the previous year. This funding has benefited over 31,000 students studying in Germany.
Some scholarships, like PROMOS from the University of Heidelberg, cover all expenses, while the Opportunity Scholarship from the University of Mannheim provides varying amounts of financial support each year.
Below are some fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students at top universities.
University
Scholarship
Funding Benefit
RWTH Aachen University
Scholarship for Particularly Involved International Students
Monthly stipend of €300 (INR 28.7K) for six months.
University of Heidelberg
Promos Scholarship
Covers tuition, language courses, research studies and more.
University of Mannheim
Opportunity Mannheim Scholarship
The amount is decided by the committee for each year.
Covers tuition, living expenses, and research costs.
Berlin Institute of Technology (TU Berlin)
Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung
Financial grants to highly-qualified undergraduate and doctoral students
After exploring university-specific fully funded scholarships in Germany, let's now move on to the general eligibility criteria for applying.
Eligibility and Requirements to Apply for a Fully Funded Scholarship in Germany for International Students
Requirements for different scholarships may vary based on the level of study and country of origin. Typically, they include academic criteria (such as graduation), English language test scores, and other documents like a CV, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.
Here are the common requirements for scholarships for international students in Germany.
Criteria
Details
Completed Form
Fully completed scholarship application form as per the scholarship provider's instructions.
Academic Requirements
Completed or in the final year of a bachelor's degree (for master's scholarships)
English Language
Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent)
Type of Study
Scholarships are typically available for full-time study.
Miscellaneous
CV
Research proposal (for research-based programs)
Letter of motivation
Recommendation letters (LOR)
Transcripts
Country-specific Requirements
Eligibility may vary based on your country of origin
Age Limit
Research Scholarships may have age restrictions
Experience
Prior work or research experience may be required, particularly for post-graduate scholarships.
Now that you've compiled the requirements for scholarships, it's time to apply. Let's explore how to go about it.
Steps to Apply for Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for International Students
Some fully funded scholarships, like the DAAD Scholarship, are highly competitive, with an acceptance rate of less than 10%. Knowing the right steps to apply will help avoid delays and increase your chances of acceptance.
Here are the steps involved in applying for fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students.
Step 1: Research Available Scholarships: Look for scholarships that fit your level of study, field, and eligibility criteria. Popular options include DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and Konrad Adenauer Stiftung. Start your search at least 6 months before the scholarship deadline.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet all the eligibility requirements, such as academic qualifications, language proficiency (English or German), and country of origin restrictions.
Proof of language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL for English, TestDaF for German)
CV or resume
Letters of recommendation (usually two)
Statement of purpose or letter of motivation
Research proposal (for some programs)
Passport copy
Gather documents 1-2 months before the application deadline to ensure everything is ready. Indian students must fulfill Germany's student visa requirements to be eligible to apply.
Step 4: Submit the Application Form: Submit your application online through the scholarship's official portal or through the university’s website if required. Submit at least 2-3 weeks before the deadline.
Step 5: Wait for the Response: After submitting, it may take 4-6 weeks for universities or organizations to process and inform you of their decision.
Step 6: Prepare for the Interview (if applicable): Some scholarships may require an interview, either in-person or online. Prepare by reviewing your application, scholarship details, and your motivation for studying in Germany.
Step 7: Acceptance and Scholarship Offer: Once you receive the scholarship offer, carefully review the terms and conditions before accepting. This will include tuition coverage, living allowance, and any additional support provided by the scholarship.
After completing the steps and being accepted for a scholarship, let's explore the benefits you can receive from fully funded scholarships in Germany.
Importance of Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in Germany
Students in Germany spend an average amount of €842 (INR 80.6K) per month on the cost of living in cities like Munich. However, visa applicants must show proof of €992 (INR 95K) per month to cover food, rent, and other expenses. With a fully funded scholarship, you can reduce your expenses by 50% to 70%.
Beyond the financial benefits, here's how fully funded scholarships for international students in Germany can be advantageous.
Provides financial relief
Covers tuition, living expenses, and health insurance, reducing the financial burden.
Frees students from the need to take on part-time jobs, allowing more focus on academics.
Example: Scholarships like the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) Scholarship cover tuition, living expenses, and health insurance for international students studying in Germany.
Reduces financial barriers
Eliminates miscellaneous costs like attending seminars and provides allowances for essential living costs.
Reduces dependency on loans or family support, making education more affordable.
Example: The Deutschlandstipendium scholarship program provides financial assistance to international students at universities such as Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).
Attracts global talent
Encourages a diverse student body from around the world.
Promotes cross-cultural exchange and innovation in research and academics.
Example: Students from countries like India gain access to high-quality education while contributing to Germany's diverse academic environment.
Increases access to quality education
Provides opportunities to study at world-class universities without financial barriers.
Enables students from various backgrounds to pursue high-quality programs.
Example: Erasmus Mundus Program attracts students from across Africa, Asia, and Latin America to study at top universities like University of Stuttgart.
Provides networking opportunities and access to internships with top companies.
Example: Students at top institutions like University of Mannheim can benefit from connections to major players like Allianz, opening up career opportunities in business analytics after graduation.
Mistakes while applying for scholarships can deprive you of the benefits. Let's explore the common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Common Mistakes in Applying for Fully Funded Scholarships and How to Avoid Them
Applying for scholarships is a competitive process, and even small mistakes can affect your chances of success. For instance, 1 in 5 students miss their chances due to missed deadlines or a lack of a tailored application.
Common mistakes like missing deadlines or submitting incomplete documents can delay your application or even disqualify you entirely.
Let's look at some common mistakes and how to avoid them.
Missing application deadlines Submitting your application form after the deadline can cause automatic disqualification or put you at the back of the review process. For instance, missing the DAAD Scholarship deadline by 1 day can put you out of contention.
Tip: Mark the deadline on your calendar as soon as possible. Use tools like Google Calendar to set multiple reminders (1 week and 1 day before the deadline).
Submitting incomplete or incorrect documents Incomplete or incorrect documents, such as missing transcripts or incorrect versions of certificates, can delay or reject your application. For example, an applicant for the Deutschlandstipendium may submit an incomplete document.
Tip: Create a document checklist, and double-check each one. Ask a friend to review them before submitting to catch any errors.
Failing to meet eligibility requirements Not adhering to eligibility criteria, such as academic qualifications, language requirements, or nationality restrictions, can result in automatic disqualification. For example, spending time on the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship application, even though you don't meet the GPA criteria.
Tip: Carefully read the scholarship guidelines to ensure you meet all the requirements. If necessary, seek clarification from the scholarship provider or check FAQs on the official website before proceeding with the application.
Writing generic or unoriginal personal statements A generic personal statement can make your application seem impersonal and not stand out among hundreds of applicants. For example, while applying for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship, writing a generic personal statement that doesn't connect with the foundation's core values of environmental sustainability.
Tip: Tailor your personal statement to the scholarship's specific goals. Highlight your unique experiences, challenges, and motivations that align with the scholarship's mission. Show how the scholarship directly supports your academic and career aspirations.
Lack of proper research Not understanding the full scope of the scholarship, such as the funding amount, duration, and expectations, can lead to unpleasant surprises later. For instance, an undergraduate student applying for the DAAD WISE Scholarship without realizing that the scholarship is available only for postgraduate students.
Tip: Spend time on the scholarship website and carefully read all guidelines, including eligibility and required documents. Keep track of specific instructions on formatting, word count, and submission procedures to avoid mistakes.
While tips and steps can be insightful, having a professional guide can create a huge difference. Let's explore how upGrad can assist you in discovering fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students.
How Can You Benefit from upGrad's Assistance for Scholarships?
Applying for scholarships can be challenging due to the multiple steps involved, varying requirements, and strict timelines. upGrad offers personalized guidance to help you handle this process efficiently and increase your chances of success.
Here's how upGrad can assist you.
Identifying Suitable Scholarships With upGrad's assistance, you can find scholarships that align with your academic background, career goals, and eligibility criteria.
Understanding Scholarship Requirements You'll receive clear insights into specific scholarship requirements, helping you ensure that all eligibility conditions are met.
Application Timeline Management Stay informed about deadlines and application timelines, so you never miss an important date, thanks to upGrad's reminders.
Document Preparation Assistance From crafting your CV to preparing recommendation letters, upGrad will guide you through every step of the document preparation process.
Personalized Application Strategy Tailored advice on creating compelling applications ensures that you stand out from other candidates and present yourself effectively.
Not sure where to begin your journey toward fully funded scholarships in Germany? Book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's expert advisors to get personalized guidance on finding the right scholarships, preparing your application, and selecting the best opportunities!
FAQs
What are the eligibility criteria for fully funded scholarships in Germany?
Eligibility varies by scholarship program. For instance, the DAAD requires applicants to have completed a bachelor's degree or be in their final year of studies. There's no upper age limit, but some programs like DAAD may have a maximum time for finishing your degree.
Are there any scholarships for students with financial hardships in Germany?
Yes, several institutions offer scholarships for students facing financial difficulties. For example, the University of Passau provides a one-off stipend of up to €300 (INR 2.8L) through its Donation Barometer project, funded by the association "Friends of the University".
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships simultaneously. However, it's essential to carefully review each scholarship's terms and conditions to ensure there are no conflicts, such as restrictions on receiving multiple awards.
What happens if I fail to meet the scholarship requirements during my studies in Germany?
Failure to meet scholarship requirements can lead to consequences like reduced funding or loss of the scholarship. For instance, at Frankfurt School, if a scholarship holder does not fulfill the conditions, the scholarship may be downgraded for the next two semesters.
How long does it take to get a scholarship approval in Germany?
The approval timeline takes 6-8 months and varies by scholarship. For example, the DAAD typically opens applications in early December, with deadlines around mid-January. Acceptance letters are usually sent out by August, with programs starting in the following academic year.
Can I work while studying with a fully funded scholarship in Germany?
Yes, many scholarships allow students to work part-time. However, there are restrictions. For example, if you receive a scholarship that provides €538/month, any income above this amount may be deducted from your scholarship.
Do I need to know German to get a fully funded scholarship in Germany?
Language requirements depend on the program. Some scholarships require proficiency in German, especially for programs taught in German. However, many master's programs and scholarships are available in English, and proficiency in English may be sufficient.
Can I renew a fully funded scholarship for multiple years in Germany?
Renewal policies vary. For example, the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes offers scholarships that can be extended based on academic performance and other criteria. In 2023, 93.5% of requests for further funding were approved.
How do I find the best scholarships for my course in Germany?
You can find scholarships by utilizing resources like the DAAD Scholarship Database, which allows you to search for scholarships based on your field of study, degree level, and other criteria.
Can I use a fully funded scholarship to cover living expenses in Germany?
Yes, fully funded scholarships cover living expenses in addition to tuition fees. For instance, the DAAD EPOS Scholarship provides financial support to cover accommodation, transport, and tuition fees.
How competitive is the process for fully funded scholarships in Germany?
The competition level varies by scholarship and field of study. Prestigious scholarships like those offered by the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes are highly competitive, supporting fewer than 0.5% of German students. It's crucial to meet all eligibility criteria and submit a strong application.
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