DAAD Scholarships: Fully Funded German Awards for African Students
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the largest funder of African postgraduate students in Germany — Masters, PhD, EPOS, in-region — with €1,000–€1,400/month stipends plus tuition.
At a glance
- Sponsor
- DAAD — Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst
- Level
- Masters, PhD, postdoctoral, in-country / in-region
- Funding
- €934/month (Masters), €1,300/month (PhD) + insurance + travel + tuition
- Deadline
- Most programs close August–October each year
Who is eligible
- African applicant with a recognised undergraduate degree and (for EPOS) at least 2 years of relevant work experience.
- Admission letter or formal pre-acceptance from a German university (or DAAD-approved partner outside Germany for in-region scholarships).
- English or German proficiency depending on the program of instruction.
- EPOS: cannot have left your most recent academic degree more than 6 years ago.
What the award covers
- Monthly stipend — €934 (Masters), €1,300 (PhD)
- Travel allowance and health, accident and liability insurance
- Tuition coverage at participating German programs
- Optional 2- or 6-month German language course before studies start
- Family allowance for accompanying spouse / children where applicable
How to apply
- Identify a DAAD-supported program (EPOS development-related Master's, Helmut Schmidt PIP, PhD pathways).
- Apply for university admission separately at the host German institution.
- Submit the DAAD portal application by the program-specific deadline (usually August–October).
- Shortlist interviews in December–February; awards announced March–May for the following winter term.
Frequently asked questions
Which DAAD program suits African Masters applicants best?
The EPOS (Entwicklungsbezogene Postgraduiertenstudiengänge) catalogue covers ~50 development-related Master's programs that prioritise applicants from Africa, Asia and Latin America. It is the most accessible DAAD route.
Is the DAAD scholarship fully funded?
Effectively yes. DAAD covers tuition (at supported programs), a monthly stipend, health insurance, travel, and a German language course. You will need a small reserve for rent deposits and initial settling costs.
Can I apply for DAAD PhD funding from Africa?
Yes. DAAD funds PhDs through structured programs and individual research stays. You'll need a German PhD supervisor's letter and a strong proposal.
Do I need German language skills?
Not for English-taught EPOS or many engineering Master's. For German-taught programs, B2/C1 is required. DAAD funds a free pre-study German course.