DAAD Scholarships (Germany) – For Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD

Reviewed and Verified by  Menyakey  team

Introduction: Why DAAD Scholarships Are a Game-Changer for Nigerian Students

Germany is one of the top study destinations for international students, thanks to its world-class universities, cutting-edge research facilities, and affordable education. But what if you could study in Germany for free—with additional financial support for living expenses?

That’s exactly what the DAAD Scholarship offers!

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is one of the largest funding organizations for international students, providing fully and partially funded scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs. Every year, thousands of students from Nigeria and other countries secure this prestigious scholarship to pursue their dreams in Germany.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about DAAD Scholarships—eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, application steps, deadlines, and success tips—so you can submit a winning application.

? Key Takeaways:
✅ Fully funded scholarships for Nigerian students
✅ Covers tuition, monthly stipend, travel, and health insurance
✅ Open for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD studies
✅ Strong focus on STEM, Social Sciences, and Development Studies
✅ No age limit (varies by program)

? Apply Now on the DAAD Official Website

What is the DAAD Scholarship?

The Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst (DAAD) is a German government-funded organization that supports international students, researchers, and academics in studying and researching in Germany.

DAAD offers over 100 scholarship programs, including:

• Undergraduate Scholarships (for final-year students)

• Master’s Scholarships (for postgraduate studies)

• PhD & Research Grants (for doctoral candidates)

• Short-Term Research Grants (for academics)

Who Should Apply?

• Nigerian students seeking a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Germany

• Researchers & academics looking for funding

• Professionals aiming for specialized courses

Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Scholarships

Before applying, ensure you meet the basic requirements:

1. Academic Requirements

✔ Bachelor’s Applicants: Must have completed at least 2 years of university education in Nigeria.
✔ Master’s Applicants: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree (at least 2nd Class Upper).
✔ PhD Applicants: Must have a Master’s degree and a strong research proposal.

2. Language Proficiency

• For German-taught programs: TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat (usually B2/C1 level).

• For English-taught programs: IELTS (6.5+) or TOEFL (80+).

3. Work Experience (For Some Programs)

• Some Master’s and PhD scholarships require 1-2 years of professional experience.

4. Nationality & Residency

• Open to all nationalities, including Nigerians.

• Must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months before applying.

? Check Full Eligibility Criteria Here

Benefits of DAAD Scholarships

DAAD scholarships are extremely generous, covering almost all expenses:

? Monthly Stipend:

• €934 (for Master’s students)

• €1,200 (for PhD students)

✈ Travel Allowance:

• One-time payment for flight tickets.

? Health Insurance:

• Full medical coverage in Germany.

? Tuition Fees:

• Most German universities have no tuition fees, but DAAD covers any administrative costs.

? Additional Support:

• Research grants, language courses, and family allowances (for PhD students).

Required Documents for DAAD Scholarship Application

Your application must include:

? 1. DAAD Application Form (downloaded from their portal)
? 2. Certified Academic Certificates (WAEC, Bachelor’s, Master’s)
? 3. CV (Europass Format Preferred)
? 4. Motivation Letter (1-2 Pages) – Must be compelling!
? 5. Study or Research Proposal (For Master’s/PhD)
? 6. Two Recommendation Letters (Academic/Professional)
? 7. Language Certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or German proficiency)
? 8. Valid Passport Copy

⚠ Pro Tip: Some programs require additional documents, so always check the official call for applications.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Choose a DAAD Scholarship Program

• Visit DAAD Scholarship Database and filter by your degree level.

Step 2: Check University Admission Requirements

• Apply to a German university (some scholarships require admission first).

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

• Gather all required files (transcripts, CV, motivation letter, etc.).

Step 4: Submit Online Application via DAAD Portal

• Upload documents and submit before the deadline.

Step 5: Interviews (If Shortlisted)

• Some programs require an online interview.

Step 6: Await Results

• DAAD usually announces results 4-6 months after the deadline.

? Deadlines:

• Master’s/PhD: Usually August-October (for the next academic year).

• Bachelor’s: Varies (check specific programs).

? Download Full Application Guidelines Here

Success Story: How a Nigerian Student Secured DAAD Scholarship

Meet Adeola, a Nigerian student who won a fully funded DAAD Master’s scholarship in Renewable Energy at TU Munich.

? Background: BSc in Physics (First Class) from UNILAG.
? Key to Success:
✔ Strong research proposal on solar energy solutions for Africa.
✔ Well-written motivation letter linking her goals to Germany’s expertise.
✔ Early preparation (applied 6 months before the deadline).

? Her Advice: “Start early, tailor your application to DAAD’s goals, and get strong recommendation letters!”

Final Thoughts: Should You Apply for DAAD?

If you’re looking for a life-changing opportunity to study in Europe with full financial support, DAAD is one of the best scholarships out there. The competition is tough, but with the right preparation, you can stand out.

? Ready to apply?
✅ Check eligibility
✅ Prepare documents early
✅ Submit before the deadline

? Don’t miss this chance! Visit the official DAAD website now:

                                   APPLY NOW