MastersThe scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. Additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Language course fees and TestDaF/DSH fee reimbursements are also available. Tuition fees are not covered.

Study scholarships for STEM disciplines

The DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines offer young academics and future professionals from developing and emerging countries the opportunity to pursue a Master's degree in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and engineering in Germany. The scholarship supports full-time, on-campus, tuition-free Master's programs at German universities, focusing on enhancing qualification and employability in innovation-driving STEM fields. Applicants must hold a recognized first degree, demonstrate strong academic performance, and meet specific language proficiency requirements. Funding commences in the winter term 2026/2027.

Provider: DAAD EPOS
Host country: Germany
Deadline: The application deadlines are updated annually in the second quarter and are typically in the same period as the previous year. The application period generally runs from June until the stated application deadline. Funding must begin in 2026, usually on October 1st, or earlier if a preceding German language course is taken.

Official source

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Study scholarships for STEM disciplines is open to African students applying to study in Germany at the Masters level, with the scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. language course fees and testdaf/dsh fee reimbursements are also available. tuition fees are not covered. funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Masters · applicants for Germany
Funding: The scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. Additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Language course fees and TestDaF/DSH fee reimbursements are also available. Tuition fees are not covered.
Study level: Masters
Deadline: The application deadlines are updated annually in the second quarter and are typically in the same period as the previous year. The application period generally runs from June until the stated application deadline. Funding must begin in 2026, usually on October 1st, or earlier if a preceding German language course is taken.

Key eligibility criteria

Applicants must be from developing and emerging countries, possess a first degree recognized in Germany (e.g., Bachelor's) by the application deadline, and demonstrate above-average academic performance. They should not already hold a Master's degree by the application deadline. The scholarship is for a full-time, on-campus, tuition-free Master's degree in STEM (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, engineering) at a German university, starting in the winter term 2026/2027. Applicants must not have resided in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline and must have a minimum B1 level proficiency in the language of instruction of their chosen program, with the degree generally not dating back more than 6 years.

What the the scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. language course fees and testdaf/dsh fee reimbursements are also available. tuition fees are not covered. award covers

Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare
Language preparation

About the Study scholarships for STEM disciplines (2026)

# DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines ## Overview The DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines aim to empower promising young academics and future professionals from developing and emerging countries. This scholarship provides an exceptional opportunity to pursue a Master's degree in innovation-driving STEM fields in Germany, specifically in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and engineering. The program focuses on enhancing the qualification and employability of its recipients, supporting their academic and professional journeys within these crucial disciplines. Applicants must be prepared to commit to a full-time, on-campus Master's degree program at a state or state-recognized German university. The program exclusively funds tuition-free Master's degree programs and excludes those with integrated stays outside Germany. Funding is specifically for programs commencing in the winter term 2026/2027. ## Benefits Recipients of this scholarship will receive comprehensive financial and academic support. Key benefits include: * **Monthly Scholarship Payments:** 992 euros per month to cover living expenses. * **Insurance Coverage:** Payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance. * **Travel Allowance:** Funding to cover travel costs for arriving in Germany. * **Annual Study Allowance:** An additional 460 euros annually to support study-related expenses. Under certain circumstances, additional benefits may be available upon application after the funding period begins: * **Monthly Rent Subsidy:** To assist with accommodation costs. * **Monthly Allowance for Accompanying Family Members:** For those with dependents. * **Disability/Chronic Illness Support:** On application, a subsidy for justified additional costs incurred abroad that are necessary for the project and not covered by a third party. * **Carbon Offset Reimbursement:** For air travel. To enhance language skills, the DAAD offers (for funding periods over six months): * **Online Language Course Fees:** Payment for an online language course after receiving the Scholarship Award Letter. * **German Language Course in Germany:** Potentially funded prior to the study program, depending on German language skills and project needs. * **Allowance for Personal German Language Course:** During the scholarship period. * **TestDaF/DSH Fee Reimbursement:** For tests taken in the home country (after award) or in Germany (during funding). **Note:** The DAAD does not cover tuition fees. ## Eligibility This scholarship is designed for high-achieving students from developing and emerging countries who wish to pursue a Master's degree in STEM subjects at a German university. Specific eligibility criteria include: * **Nationality:** Open to students from developing and emerging countries. * **Academic Qualification:** Applicants must have completed a first degree recognized in Germany (e.g., Bachelor's degree) by the application deadline. Individuals already holding a Master's degree by the application deadline are not eligible. * **Academic Performance:** Demonstrated above-average academic performance. * **Degree Program:** Must be applying for a complete Master's degree (full-time, on-campus) in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, or engineering at a state or state-recognized university in Germany. Interdisciplinary programs must have a designated STEM focus. The program must be tuition-free. * **Commencement of Studies:** Funding is only available for degree programs starting in the winter term 2026/2027. Funding is not possible for Master's degree programs that have already begun in Germany. * **Residency in Germany:** Applicants should not have resided in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline. * **University Admission:** Applicants are responsible for securing admission to a German university for their chosen study program by the due date. While admission notification is not required at the time of DAAD application, it must be submitted before the funding period begins. * **Degree Recency:** As a rule, your university degree should not date back more than 6 years at the time of the application deadline. * **Language Proficiency:** Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of B1 level proficiency in the language of instruction (German, English, or both) of their chosen study program. Specific eligible certificates for German include TestDaF, DSH, DSD, Goethe-Zertifikat, Österreichisches Sprachdiplom, telc Deutsch, and onSET Deutsch. For English, acceptable certificates include Cambridge English, IELTS, TOEFL iBT/Essentials, TOEIC, PTE Academic, and onSET English. The certificate should be no older than 2 years. ## Required Documents Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents through the DAAD portal. All documents in a national language must include German or English translations. The DAAD reserves the right to request certified copies. **Mandatory documents to be uploaded to the DAAD portal:** * **Curriculum Vitae:** Full, in tabular form (max. 3 pages). * **Letter of Motivation:** 1-3 pages, detailing academic and personal reasons for the study project in Germany (upload under 'study project/motivation'). * **Letter of Admission:** To the study program at the host university in Germany. If not yet received, it must be submitted before the funding period begins. * **Form 'Information about your preferred master programmes':** Duly completed, listing up to 5 Master's programs. Ensure listed programs do not charge tuition fees (upload under 'course profile'). * **Current Overview of Grades/Transcript of Records:** With individual grades (upload under 'transcript of records/academic achievements'). * **University Degree Certificates:** All obtained, with final grade(s) and transcripts for all academic years. If not yet available, a provisional document must be uploaded (upload under 'university degree certificates'). * **Language Certificate(s):** Proof of current proficiency (at least B1) in the language(s) of instruction, no older than 2 years (upload under 'language certificate'). * **Letter of Recommendation:** One recent, supporting letter from a university teacher on a DAAD form, providing information about your qualifications. * **Passport/National Identity Card:** And personal data page, plus any other identity/residency documents. For refugees, a Refugee ID card and UNHCR registration/official proof of asylum (upload under 'Passport / identity card'). **Optional documents:** * Other documents deemed relevant to the application (e.g., certificates of employment, proof of extracurricular engagement). ## How to Apply Applications for this scholarship are processed online via the DAAD portal. The application period typically runs from June until the specified application deadline. The application portal is only accessible during the active application period. **Application Steps:** 1. **Register:** Create an account on the DAAD portal. 2. **Complete Online Application:** Fill out the online application form completely and accurately. 3. **Upload Documents:** Upload all required application documents in the 'Attachments' section of the DAAD portal. Ensure all non-English/German documents are accompanied by translations. 4. **Submission:** Submit the complete application by the deadline. **Important Notes:** * Only complete applications with all mandatory documents will be considered. * Incomplete applications will be excluded for formal reasons. * The DAAD portal closes at 24:00 hrs (CET or CEST) on the final application day. It is highly recommended to submit applications before the last day to avoid potential technical issues. * Applicants are responsible for ensuring their applications are complete. * Application documents remain with the DAAD. Applicant data is saved in accordance with data protection regulations. ## Key Dates The application deadlines for the DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines are updated annually in the second quarter. While specific dates are not provided in the current document, they generally align with the previous year's schedule and will be published on the official website. * **Application Period:** Generally runs from June until the application deadline. * **Funding Start:** Funding must begin in 2026. The scholarship usually commences on October 1, 2026, or earlier if a German language course is taken prior to the study program. Applicants are strongly advised to regularly check the official DAAD scholarship database for the most current application deadlines. ## Selection Criteria The selection process for the DAAD Study Scholarships is rigorous and involves a pre-selection based on submitted documents, followed by an interview for short-listed candidates. The primary criteria for selection are: **1. Academic Qualification:** * **Academic Achievements:** Evaluation of grades and overall academic performance. * **Course of Studies:** Assessment of the relevance and quality of previous academic programs. * **Language Knowledge:** Proficiency in the language(s) of instruction or working language(s). * **Internships/Work Experience:** Relevance of any prior internships or work experience. **2. Quality of the Study Project:** * **Project Quality and Preparation:** Thoroughness of preparation, including preliminary information gathering, choice of degree program, host university, and established contacts. * **Career Integration:** How well the proposed study project aligns with and contributes to the applicant's academic career path. **3. Potential of the Applicant:** * **Motivation:** Academic and personal reasons for pursuing studies in Germany, including German language skills (if not the primary working language). * **Prospects:** The anticipated significance of the stay in Germany for the applicant's future academic, professional, and personal development. * **Extracurricular Commitment:** Demonstrated extracurricular knowledge, skills, and social engagement. The selection committee also considers aspects of equal opportunities, such as disability, chronic illness, raising children, caring for relatives, refugee background, or extensive employment required to finance studies, as self-declared by the applicant. ## Tips To maximize your chances of success when applying for the DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines, consider the following tips: * **Thorough Research:** Carefully research suitable tuition-free Master's programs in STEM fields at German universities that align with your academic and career goals. Ensure interdisciplinary programs have a clear STEM focus. * **Early Preparation:** Begin preparing your application documents well in advance of the deadline. This includes securing translations, obtaining transcripts, and requesting letters of recommendation. * **Language Proficiency:** Ensure your language certificates are up-to-date and meet the B1 minimum requirement for the language of instruction. If your chosen program is in German, strive for the highest possible proficiency. * **Strong Letter of Motivation:** Craft a compelling letter that clearly articulates your academic and personal motivations for studying in Germany, and how the chosen program fits into your long-term career aspirations. * **Complete Application:** Double-check that all mandatory documents are included and accurately uploaded to the DAAD portal. Incomplete applications will be rejected. * **Adhere to Deadlines:** Submit your application well before the final deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues. * **Seek Feedback:** If possible, have someone review your application, particularly your letter of motivation, for clarity, coherence, and accuracy. * **Demonstrate Potential:** Highlight your academic achievements, relevant experiences, and any extracurricular commitments that showcase your potential and motivation. ## Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the DAAD Study Scholarships for STEM Disciplines, please refer to the official DAAD scholarship database: [https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742130&page=1](https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742130&page=1) Additionally, explore the following DAAD resources for further guidance: * 'Important information for scholarship applicants' section on the DAAD website. * 'Study programmes and language courses' section on the DAAD website. * 'Plan your studies' section to help prepare for your stay in Germany. * The campaign website: [https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/](https://www.study-in-germany.de/en/)

What the The scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. Additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Language course fees and TestDaF/DSH fee reimbursements are also available. Tuition fees are not covered. Study scholarships for STEM disciplines covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Monthly stipend
Accommodation
Return airfare
Language preparation

Study scholarships for STEM disciplines eligibility for Germany applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Applicants must be from developing and emerging countries, possess a first degree recognized in Germany (e.g., Bachelor's) by the application deadline, and demonstrate above-average academic performance. They should not already hold a Master's degree by the application deadline. The scholarship is for a full-time, on-campus, tuition-free Master's degree in STEM (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, engineering) at a German university, starting in the winter term 2026/2027. Applicants must not have resided in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline and must have a minimum B1 level proficiency in the language of instruction of their chosen program, with the degree generally not dating back more than 6 years.

Documents required for the Study scholarships for STEM disciplines application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Research proposal or statement of purpose (500–2,000 words for PhD)
Published or unpublished writing sample (PhD and research-led Masters)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Study scholarships for STEM disciplines 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742130&page=1 and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "Applicants must be from developing and emerging countries, possess a first degree recognized in Germany (e.g., Bachelor's) by the application deadline, and demonstrate above-average academic performance. They should not …". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Apply to the host university or programme first where required, and obtain a conditional admission letter. A growing number of sponsors only fund applicants who already hold an offer.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a 500–1,000-word personal statement and any additional essays the sponsor specifies. Anchor each essay in concrete examples and tie your goals back to the sponsor's mission.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742130&page=1, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by The application deadlines are updated annually in the second quarter and are typically in the same period as the previous year. The application period generally runs from June until the stated application deadline. Funding must begin in 2026, usually on October 1st, or earlier if a preceding German language course is taken. (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, DAAD EPOS will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Study scholarships for STEM disciplines deadline & application timeline

The sponsor has not published a fixed deadline yet. Use the milestones below as a generic 12-month plan; substitute dates once the intake window opens.

12 months out
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Study scholarships for STEM disciplines?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Masters level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by DAAD EPOS, and be able to relocate to Germany for the duration of the programme.

Is the Study scholarships for STEM disciplines fully funded?+

Funding model: The scholarship provides monthly payments of 992 euros, health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage, a travel allowance, and an annual study allowance of 460 euros. Additional benefits may include a monthly rent subsidy, a monthly allowance for accompanying family members, and subsidies for justified additional costs for applicants with disabilities or chronic illnesses. Language course fees and TestDaF/DSH fee reimbursements are also available. Tuition fees are not covered.. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is The application deadlines are updated annually in the second quarter and are typically in the same period as the previous year. The application period generally runs from June until the stated application deadline. Funding must begin in 2026, usually on October 1st, or earlier if a preceding German language course is taken.. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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