Germany is one of the most attractive study destinations for international students because of its world-class universities, advanced research, low tuition fees and safe living environment. What makes Germany even better is the wide range of scholarships available for global students. These awards help cover tuition, rent, travel, health insurance and everyday expenses—making your study journey easier and more affordable.
Whether you want a full scholarship or partial funding, Germany offers many opportunities for bachelor’s, master’s and PhD students. This 2025 guide explains the top scholarships available, eligibility rules, deadlines and tips to increase your chances.
What You Will Learn in This Guide
- Best scholarships in Germany for international students
- Eligibility and coverage for each scholarship
- Application deadlines
- Step-by-step process to apply
- Easiest scholarships to get
- Comparison table of top scholarships
Best Scholarships in Germany
1. DAAD Scholarships (Most Popular for International Students)
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is the largest scholarship provider in Germany. It supports thousands of students each year in bachelor’s, master’s and PhD programs.
Eligibility
- Must be an international applicant
- Strong academic record (above average grades)
- Relevant academic or professional experience
- Must study full-time in Germany
- German language skills may be needed for some programs
Coverage & Deadlines
- Monthly stipend (€992 for master’s, €1,300 for PhD)
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
- Deadlines:
- July 15 (winter intake)
- January 15 (summer intake)
DAAD is highly competitive but offers the most complete funding.
2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships (For Social & Environmental Focus)
This foundation supports students who are active in areas such as sustainability, democracy, climate issues and social justice.
Eligibility
- Must be admitted to or studying at a German university
- Strong grades
- Interest in social or environmental causes
- Financial need may be considered
- German proficiency is helpful
Coverage & Deadlines
- Graduate students: €1,200/month + €100 mobility allowance
- Doctoral students: €1,319/month + €110 mobility
- Deadlines: March 1 and September 1
3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships (For Future Leaders)
This scholarship supports students with leadership qualities who want to study fields like politics, law, economics and social sciences.
Eligibility
- International students from outside Germany
- Strong academic results
- Involvement in social, political or community work
- Leadership qualities
- German language skills required
Coverage & Deadline
- Master’s: €934/month
- PhD: €1,400/month
- Deadline: July
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships (Study in Multiple Countries)
Erasmus Mundus allows students to study across 2–3 European countries, including Germany.
Eligibility
- Open to EU and non-EU students
- Must be accepted into an Erasmus Mundus master’s program
- Completed bachelor’s degree
- Strong academic motivation
- English proficiency required
Coverage & Deadlines
- Monthly stipend: €1,400
- Deadlines: October–January, depending on the program
This is one of the best full funding opportunities.
5. Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships (For Students Supporting Social Values)
This foundation supports students committed to democracy, equality and social development.
Eligibility
- Interest in political or social sciences
- Strong academic record
- Commitment to social justice
- German language required for most programs
Coverage & Deadlines
- Monthly stipend: €750–€850
- Family allowance & health insurance covered
- Deadlines depend on degree level:
- Master’s: April 30 & October 31
- Bachelor’s: after the 1st semester
- Medical: 4th–6th semester
- PhD: anytime
6. University-Specific Scholarships in Germany
Many German universities offer their own grants for international students. These scholarships differ by university and may cover tuition, dorm fees, or monthly living costs.
Eligibility
- Must be accepted or enrolled at the university
- Good academic record
- Some focus on financial need or specific fields
- Open to bachelor’s, master’s and PhD students
Popular universities with scholarships include:
Always check your university’s international office for updates.
7. Rosa Luxemburg Foundation Scholarships (For Social & Political Development)
This scholarship supports students who want to promote social fairness, equality and human rights.
Eligibility
- International students from non-EU countries
- Background in social sciences, politics or economics
- Strong commitment to social justice
- German language skills needed
Coverage & Deadlines
- Monthly stipend: €934–€1,350
- Deadlines: April 1 and October 1
8. Deutschlandstipendium (Merit-Based Funding Across Germany)
The Deutschlandstipendium is offered by many German universities with support from private donors.
Eligibility
- Enrolled or accepted into a German university
- Strong academic performance
- Open to all nationalities
- Some universities may consider financial need
Coverage & Deadlines
- €300 per month
- €150 from the federal government
- €150 from private sponsors
- Deadlines: June–August (varies by university)
Which Scholarship Is Easiest to Get in Germany?
The easiest scholarships for international students are:
- Deutschlandstipendium
- University-specific scholarships
- Foundation-based scholarships with broad criteria
DAAD and Erasmus offer full funding but are more competitive.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Choose your scholarship based on your field and funding needs.
- Check eligibility such as grades, language skills and degree level.
- Prepare documents:
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Recommendation letters
- Language certificates
- Apply online through the scholarship portal or university website.
- Prepare for interviews, if required.
- Wait for results and accept the offer if selected.
Applying early increases your chances.
Scholarship Comparison Table (Quick Look for Students)
| Scholarship | Level | Monthly Stipend | Difficulty | Deadline |
| DAAD | Master/PhD | €992–€1,300 | High | Jan & Jul |
| Deutschlandstipendium | All | €300 | Medium | Jun–Aug |
| Heinrich Böll | UG/PG/PhD | €1,200+ | Medium | Mar & Sep |
| Friedrich Ebert | UG/PG | €750–€850 | Medium | Apr & Oct |
| Erasmus Mundus | Master | €1,400 | Medium–High | Oct–Jan |
| Konrad-Adenauer | PG/PhD | €934–€1,400 | High | Jul |
| Rosa Luxemburg | UG/PG | €934–€1,350 | High | Apr & Oct |
Conclusion
Germany offers some of the most generous scholarships for international students in 2025. From fully funded programs like DAAD and Erasmus Mundus to university-level grants and merit-based awards, students can find the right support for their academic journey. Start your search early, prepare your documents well and apply on time to increase your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which scholarship is best for international students in Germany?
DAAD, Erasmus Mundus and Deutschlandstipendium are considered the best scholarships because they offer strong financial support, monthly stipends, and are open to students from many countries.
2. Does Germany offer full scholarships to international students?
Yes. Germany offers full scholarships like DAAD and Erasmus Mundus, which cover living expenses, travel, health insurance and academic costs.
3. How can I get a scholarship to study in Germany?
You can apply by choosing a scholarship program, checking eligibility, preparing documents such as transcripts and motivation letters, and submitting your application online before deadlines.
4. Is it hard to get a scholarship in Germany?
It can be competitive, but students with strong grades, a good motivation letter, relevant experience and early applications have a higher chance of being selected.
5. What GPA is required for scholarships in Germany?
Most scholarships prefer above-average grades, usually equivalent to 2.5 or better on the German scale, but some programs also consider motivation and achievements.
6. Can Indian students apply for scholarships in Germany?
Yes. All major scholarships, including DAAD, Deutschlandstipendium and Erasmus Mundus, are open to Indian students.
7. Do scholarships in Germany cover living expenses?
Many scholarships provide monthly stipends that cover rent, food, insurance and travel. Full scholarships like DAAD cover almost all living costs.
8. When should I apply for scholarships in Germany?
Applications typically open 6–12 months before the intake. Common deadlines are October–January for Erasmus and June–August for university scholarships.
9. Do I need to know German to get a scholarship in Germany?
Not always. Many scholarships accept English-taught programs, but basic German language skills can improve your chances and help with daily life.
10. Which scholarship is easiest to get in Germany?
Deutschlandstipendium and university-specific scholarships are easier to get because many universities offer them and they focus on motivation as well as grades.
11. Can I study in Germany with no tuition fees?
Yes. Public universities in Germany charge little or no tuition fees, and scholarships help cover living costs, making your study nearly free.
12. What documents are required for scholarships in Germany?
Common documents include academic transcripts, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters and proof of language proficiency.