DAAD Scholarships for Undergraduates and Postgraduates: Requirements, and How to Apply

If you are looking for a fully funded opportunity to study in Germany, the DAAD Scholarship is one of the best and most prestigious options available. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers hundreds of scholarships every year to support undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students from developing countries—including Kenya and other African nations.

In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about DAAD Scholarships, including eligibility, benefits, the application process, required documents, and tips for increasing your chances of success.

What Is the DAAD Scholarship?

DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is one of the world’s largest funding organizations for international academic exchange. It offers fully funded and partially funded scholarships to international students who wish to pursue:

• Undergraduate degrees (limited categories)
• Master’s programs
• PhD studies / Research
• Short courses and training programs
• Exchange programs

DAAD programs are known for their academic excellence, generous funding, and strong career pathways in Europe and beyond.

Why Study in Germany Through DAAD?

Germany is a top destination for international students because of:

• Tuition-free education in public universities
• High-quality academic programs
• Access to global research facilities
• Opportunities for internships and work experience
• Strong employment opportunities after graduation

DAAD helps make this even more accessible by providing financial support, mentoring, and a strong academic network.

Types of DAAD Scholarships for Undergraduates and Postgraduates

DAAD offers numerous scholarships, but the most common ones include:

1. DAAD Undergraduate Scholarships

These are limited but available through:

• Exchange programs
• Short-term undergraduate study visits
• Specialized bachelor’s programs
• University-specific DAAD-funded undergrad slots

Undergraduate students can also benefit from DAAD Research Internships or Summer Schools.

2. DAAD Postgraduate Scholarships

These are the most popular and widely available scholarships. They include:

a) Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)

For students from developing countries pursuing fields such as:

• Public Health
• Engineering
• Environmental Sciences
• Economics
• Governance and Development
• Education
• Media and Communication
• Agriculture
• Urban Planning

b) DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Program

Supports Master’s programs in:

• Public Policy
• Good Governance
• Development Studies

c) Research Grants / PhD Scholarships

For full doctoral study or short-term research stays.

d) DAAD Study Scholarships for Fine Art, Design, Film, Music

For creative and performance-oriented programs.

DAAD Scholarship Benefits

One of the biggest reasons DAAD is highly competitive is its generous funding. Benefits vary depending on the program but generally include:

✔ Full Tuition Coverage

Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees.

✔ Monthly Stipend

• €861 – €934 for postgraduate students
• €1,200 – €1,500 for PhD candidates

✔ Health Insurance Coverage

✔ Travel Allowance

Covers international flights.

✔ Research & Study Grant Support

✔ Accommodation Subsidy (if applicable)

✔ Family Allowances (for PhD students with children)

✔ German Language Course (optional)

DAAD often funds up to 6 months of language training.

Eligibility Requirements for DAAD Undergraduate and Postgraduate Scholarships

Eligibility varies by program, but typical requirements include:

1. Academic Qualifications

• Strong academic performance
• For Master’s: a recognized undergraduate degree
• For PhD: a recognized Master’s degree
• Degree should be no older than 6 years (postgraduate applicants)

2. Professional Experience (for Postgraduates)

Most Master’s scholarships (especially EPOS) require:

• At least 2 years of professional work experience

3. English or German Language Proficiency

Depending on the program:

• IELTS / TOEFL for English-taught programs
• TestDaF / DSH for German programs
  (Some programs accept a university language proficiency letter.)

4. Nationality

You must be from an eligible developing or transition country (Kenya is eligible).

5. Motivation and Commitment

You must demonstrate:

• A strong motivation letter
• Clear career plans
• Commitment to development of your home country

Required Documents for DAAD Scholarship Application

Typical documents include:

• Completed DAAD application form
• CV (preferably in EuroPass format)
• Academic transcripts & certificates
• Letter of motivation
• Two recommendation letters
• Passport or national ID
• Proof of work experience (for EPOS)
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• Language proficiency certificates
• University admission letter (if already obtained)

How to Apply for DAAD Scholarships

The application process varies slightly by program, but the general steps are:

Step 1: Identify an Eligible Program

Start by exploring opportunities at daad.de, where available programs are listed yearly.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all academic, professional, and language-related documents early.

Step 3: Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Your letter should include:

• Why you chose the program
• Your academic background
• Your career goals
• Why Germany and why DAAD
• How the scholarship will help your country

Step 4: Apply Online

Most applications are submitted through:

• DAAD Portal
• German university portals
• Uni-Assist (for some universities)

Step 5: Attend Interviews (if required)

Some programs require an interview as part of the selection process.

Step 6: Wait for the Final Decision

Results are usually released between June and October, depending on the scholarship.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a DAAD Scholarship

Here are strong tips to help you stand out:

• Apply early — most programs open months before deadlines.
• Write a compelling, honest motivation letter.
• Demonstrate leadership and community involvement.
• Show clear career goals linked to development in your home country.
• Ensure your CV is professional and achievement-based.
• Proofread all documents carefully.
• Highlight international exposure or research projects.

The stronger your academic and professional profile, the higher your chances.

Final Thoughts

The DAAD Scholarship remains one of the best pathways for Kenyan and African students to pursue high-quality education in Germany—fully funded. Whether you are an undergraduate exploring exchange programs or a postgraduate applicant targeting a Master’s or PhD, DAAD offers life-changing opportunities.

With proper preparation, strong documentation, and timely application, you can significantly increase your chances of securing this competitive but rewarding scholarship.