Information for scholarship applicants

Full Job Description

You would like to apply for a DAAD scholarship in Germany? Information and answers to questions about application conditions, requirements and the selection procedure are available here.

Please note that the following conditions apply only if not otherwise specified in the scholarship announcements.

Contents

• A.Requirements for scholarship application

• B. Preparing your application

• C. Planning your project

• D. Writing your application

• E. The selection procedure

• F. Scholarship benefits

A. Requirements For Scholarship Application

1. Is there an age limit for DAAD scholarships?

No, there is usually no fixed age limit. There are individual exceptions in programmes in which this is explicitly requested by an international partner. Most scholarship programmes stipulate that only a certain amount of time should have elapsed since the last degree was obtained (see also question 2). For details, please refer to the respective Call for Applications at www.funding-guide.de under the heading "Application requirements".

2. I finished my university degree or started my doctorate longer ago than the application requirements specify. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, an application may be permissible under the following circumstances which may have a delaying effect on studies or doctoral projects:

• pregnancy and childbirth

• care of children up to the age of 12 (maximum of three years per child)

• care of care-dependent relatives

• disability or chronic illness

• prolonged, serious illness

• compulsory military service

• if applicable, other circumstances.

The dates of birth of children and periods of childcare or care of relatives or longer periods of absence due to illness or disability should be indicated in the application form; the last free text field "Other comments / Information" is available for this purpose. DAAD reserves the right to ask you to submit appropriate supporting documents.

Please provide proof of disabilities or illnesses in the form of a disability card or medical certificate. If possible, the medical certificate should indicate the periods of absence.

Information about studying abroad with a disability or chronic illness is provided in the following: Mobility with a Disability.

Other circumstances must also be justified and substantiated with supporting documents.

3. I have not completed my university degree by the application deadline. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

Yes, in most programmes which require a first university degree, you can apply in your last year of study. You must then meet all the academic requirements set out in the Call for Applications by the time your funding period begins. Also, you can hand in your degree later; it must be submitted before the start of the funding period.

Please note that this regulation does not apply to the Study scholarships - Master's degree programme for STEM subjects’ programme. You can apply for this programme if you have completed your studies with a first degree recognised in Germany (e.g. Bachelor's degree) by the application deadline at the latest.

4. I'm already in Germany. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, if you have been in Germany for a maximum of 15 months by the closing date for applications and the Call for Scholarship Applications makes no other specifications.

5. I am not currently living in my country of origin. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

An application from your current country of residence is possible under certain circumstances:

• If you wish to apply for a short-term scholarship (up to 6 months), you must have lived in your country of residence for at least one year at the time of application and have a residence there.

• If you would like to come to Germany for more than 6 months, you must also have obtained your last degree (e.g. Bachelor/Master) in your country of residence or obtain this degree until the start of the scholarship.

In any case, you can apply from your country of origin, even if you currently live in another country and meet the above requirements. Your country of origin is usually the country in which you have spent most of your life and may differ from your nationality.

Example: You were born and raised in Albania and have lived in the UK for four years , where you also obtained your Bachelor's degree. It is best to apply from the UK as you have a UK degree. It is possible to apply from Albania as an alternative. - However, you may not apply from both countries at the same time.

If you are from Germany, you may only apply from your current country of residence if you can prove that your main centre of life is in that country and that you have lived there for at least ten years, or for at least five years whilst having strong ties to that country (e. g. through a permanent employment contract, dual citizenship or an unlimited residence permit).

We strongly recommend that you seek information and advice to find out which scholarship programmes are available to you. Contact persons are listed in the Scholarship database under "Contact and advice".

6. I have dual citizenship. From which country should I apply?

Dual nationals must apply from their country of origin (usually the country where you have spent most of your life). If the requirements are met, an application from the current country of residence is also possible, as described above (A5). Nationality alone does not entitle you to apply from a country you have never lived in and are not currently living in.

Example: You were born and raised in Argentina, currently live there and have Argentinean and Italian citizenship. You can only apply from Argentina. It is not possible to apply from Italy.

7. I am enrolled in a study programme at a German university and aim to complete this degree in Germany, or I am completing a doctoral degree at a German university. Can I apply for a DAAD scholarship for a stay in a country other than Germany?

Under the following conditions, foreign nationals who live in Germany may also apply for a DAAD scholarhip for stays in other countries than Germany.

• You are enrolled in a study programme at a German university with the aim of obtaining a degree from the German university, or

• you are doing your doctorate at a German university

and want do go abroad during this time. This regulation does not apply to international students/doctoral candidates who are already being funded with an "Incoming DAAD scholarship" in Germany.

In addition, persons of equal status to Germans according to § 8 Para. 1 Number 2ff. Paragraph 2, Paragraph 2a, and Paragraph 3 BAföG can apply. In this context, the wording of the law applies, which can be found here.

Furthermore, it will be checked to what extent there is a connection to Germany and whether there is a justified expectation that you will return to Germany after the end of the temporary stay abroad.

A funding in your home country is usually excluded.

Programmes for funding abroad for students in Germany are listed in our scholarship database www.auslands-stipendien.de.

8. Can I apply for a scholarship whatever subject I am studying?

Principally yes: DAAD offers many scholarship programmes that are open to almost all subjects, although restrictions apply to some subjects (e.g. medicine).

There are also programmes that are aimed at very specific subject areas, such as architecture, music or computer science. In the Scholarship database, you can select the scholarships programmes that are offered for your subject group.

9. What language skills do I need to apply for a scholarship?

Not all programmes require a general minimum language level for funding applications. Depending on country of origin and scholarship programme, however, certain language skills may be expected. When a specific language level is required, this always refers to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). You can find out which requirements these are in the section "Application requirements" and under "Application documents" of the Call for Applications. Please read these requirements thoroughly to find out what applies to your programme and your country.

If you are awarded the scholarship, the DAAD can provide a preparatory German language course for you. The DAAD scholarship selection committee will assess whether such a German course is necessary for you and how many months (maximum six) are appropriate. These German courses will enable you to improve your German language skills. However, it is not realistic to reach the level required for university admission within the framework of these courses if you have no or only very limited German language skills by then.

In order to apply for a place at a German higher education institution and thus to start your scholarship, you must also submit proof of your language skills (e.g. DSH or TestDaF if the language of instruction is German; e.g. TOEFL or IELTS if the language of instruction is English). Level C1 is often required; however, this varies from degree programme to degree programme. Please contact your chosen host university as early as possible to find out about the requirements you need to meet. You can also find more information about the requirements on our website.

10. My German language skills are not yet sufficient. Are there e-learning language courses that I can take in my home country to improve my skills?

Yes, there are internet offers for learning German . For example, the Goethe-Institut as well as Deutsche-Uni Online (DUO) offer special online courses in German. For scholarship holders whose funding lasts longer than six months, DAAD will pay the costs of one DUO module.

Furthermore, you can find a wide range of free online content for learning German on Deutsche Welle on learngerman.dw.com.

11. I am considering taking a distance / online / part-time course (e.g. dual course of study) in Germany. Am I eligible to apply for a DAAD scholarship?

No, DAAD scholarships are awarded to applicants wishing to complete a full-time course of study with compulsory attendance in Germany. This is why applicants wishing to take a blended learning or distance/e-learning programme or part-time programme (e.g. dual course of study) are not eligible for DAAD funding.

12. Can I receive a scholarship if I do not live in Germany during the funded study or research project? I plan to continue living in my home country (a neighbouring country of Germany) during the scholarship and commute or carry out the project online.

No, the DAAD can only fund you for a study or research project in Germany if you live in Germany for the entire duration of the scholarship.

13. I already have a scholarship from the European Union, the DAAD or another organization in Germany. Can I still receive a DAAD scholarship?

If you are already funded by the DAAD, another German funding organization or another state agency in Germany, you cannot receive a scholarship from the DAAD at the same time.

An Erasmus scholarship is not compatible with a full DAAD scholarship. Scholarship holders in the "University Summer Courses in Germany" and "University Winter Courses in Germany" programmes as well as those who receive a partial scholarship from DAAD can also take advantage of ERASMUS funding.

14. I already had a DAAD scholarship, can I apply again?

It is not possible to combine several study or research scholarships (with a funding period of at least 7 months) within one educational period (which ends with the completion of a Bachelor's, Master's, Diplom, state examination etc. and a doctorate).

Specialist and language courses (e.g. university summer courses) and internships can be combined with all other types of scholarships.

You can apply to the funding programmes „Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists “, „Study Visits for Academics - Artists and Architects“ and „Re-invitation of former scholarship holders“ several times, but as a rule no more than once every three years.

Funding in the programm „Research grants in Germany“ is only possible once per educational period, i.e. once during the doctorate and once during the postdoc phase.

15. How good do my grades have to be in order for me to receive a DAAD scholarship?

The DAAD primarily supports individuals with high academic achievements. As a rule, the scholarship programmes do not stipulate a minimum grade point average for the application. Academic performance (selection criterion "qualification") is nevertheless an important criterion for the award of the scholarship.

But good grades are not everything: other aspects are also taken into account that are also important, such as the quality of the project, language skills, motivation, extracurricular commitment, special circumstances, etc.

Further information on the selection criteria can be found at Section E.

16. In the programme "Study scholarships for STEM disciplines a tuition-free degree programme must be selected. What does that mean exactly?

This means that it must be a degree programme for which no general tuition fees are charged. General tuition fees are sometimes charged, for example, by private universities as well as by state universities in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg and by individual state universities in the federal state of Bavaria.

The so-called "semester fees" are not general tuition fees. They are charged by all universities in Germany.

If, in individual cases, the university confirms in writing that it will cover the tuition fees or that you are exempt from the fees, you can choose the relevant degree programme. At the time of application, it must be ensured and proven that no fees will be incurred for the entire duration of the studies. Please upload the relevant proof together with the other application documents.

On the subject of tuition fees, please also read question F.7 and the information on our website on the costs of living and studying in Germany.

1. Is There An Age Limit For Daad Scholarships?

No, there is usually no fixed age limit. There are individual exceptions in programmes in which this is explicitly requested by an international partner. Most scholarship programmes stipulate that only a certain amount of time should have elapsed since the last degree was obtained (see also question 2). For details, please refer to the respective Call for Applications at www.funding-guide.de under the heading "Application requirements".

2. I Finished My University Degree Or Started My Doctorate Longer Ago Than The Application Requirements Specify. Am I Still Eligible To Apply?

Yes, an application may be permissible under the following circumstances which may have a delaying effect on studies or doctoral projects:

• pregnancy and childbirth

• care of children up to the age of 12 (maximum of three years per child)

• care of care-dependent relatives

• disability or chronic illness

• prolonged, serious illness

• compulsory military service

• if applicable, other circumstances.

The dates of birth of children and periods of childcare or care of relatives or longer periods of absence due to illness or disability should be indicated in the application form; the last free text field "Other comments / Information" is available for this purpose. DAAD reserves the right to ask you to submit appropriate supporting documents.

Please provide proof of disabilities or illnesses in the form of a disability card or medical certificate. If possible, the medical certificate should indicate the periods of absence.

Information about studying abroad with a disability or chronic illness is provided in the following: Mobility with a Disability.

Other circumstances must also be justified and substantiated with supporting documents.

3. I Have Not Completed My University Degree By The Application Deadline. Am I Still Eligible To Apply For A Scholarship?

Yes, in most programmes which require a first university degree, you can apply in your last year of study. You must then meet all the academic requirements set out in the Call for Applications by the time your funding period begins. Also, you can hand in your degree later; it must be submitted before the start of the funding period.

Please note that this regulation does not apply to the Study scholarships - Master's degree programme for STEM subjects’ programme. You can apply for this programme if you have completed your studies with a first degree recognised in Germany (e.g. Bachelor's degree) by the application deadline at the latest.

4. I'm Already In Germany. Am I Still Eligible To Apply?

Yes, if you have been in Germany for a maximum of 15 months by the closing date for applications and the Call for Scholarship Applications makes no other specifications.

5. I Am Not Currently Living In My Country Of Origin. Am I Still Eligible To Apply For A Scholarship?

An application from your current country of residence is possible under certain circumstances:

• If you wish to apply for a short-term scholarship (up to 6 months), you must have lived in your country of residence for at least one year at the time of application and have a residence there.

• If you would like to come to Germany for more than 6 months, you must also have obtained your last degree (e.g. Bachelor/Master) in your country of residence or obtain this degree until the start of the scholarship.

In any case, you can apply from your country of origin, even if you currently live in another country and meet the above requirements. Your country of origin is usually the country in which you have spent most of your life and may differ from your nationality.

Example: You were born and raised in Albania and have lived in the UK for four years , where you also obtained your Bachelor's degree. It is best to apply from the UK as you have a UK degree. It is possible to apply from Albania as an alternative. - However, you may not apply from both countries at the same time.

If you are from Germany, you may only apply from your current country of residence if you can prove that your main centre of life is in that country and that you have lived there for at least ten years, or for at least five years whilst having strong ties to that country (e. g. through a permanent employment contract, dual citizenship or an unlimited residence permit).

We strongly recommend that you seek information and advice to find out which scholarship programmes are available to you. Contact persons are listed in the Scholarship database under "Contact and advice".

6. I Have Dual Citizenship. From Which Country Should I Apply?

Dual nationals must apply from their country of origin (usually the country where you have spent most of your life). If the requirements are met, an application from the current country of residence is also possible, as described above (A5). Nationality alone does not entitle you to apply from a country you have never lived in and are not currently living in.

Example: You were born and raised in Argentina, currently live there and have Argentinean and Italian citizenship. You can only apply from Argentina. It is not possible to apply from Italy.

7. I Am Enrolled In A Study Programme At A German University And Aim To Complete This Degree In Germany, Or I Am Completing A Doctoral Degree At A German Univer

Under the following conditions, foreign nationals who live in Germany may also apply for a DAAD scholarhip for stays in other countries than Germany.

• You are enrolled in a study programme at a German university with the aim of obtaining a degree from the German university, or

• you are doing your doctorate at a German university

and want do go abroad during this time. This regulation does not apply to international students/doctoral candidates who are already being funded with an "Incoming DAAD scholarship" in Germany.

In addition, persons of equal status to Germans according to § 8 Para. 1 Number 2ff. Paragraph 2, Paragraph 2a, and Paragraph 3 BAföG can apply. In this context, the wording of the law applies, which can be found here.

Furthermore, it will be checked to what extent there is a connection to Germany and whether there is a justified expectation that you will return to Germany after the end of the temporary stay abroad.

A funding in your home country is usually excluded.

Programmes for funding abroad for students in Germany are listed in our scholarship database www.auslands-stipendien.de.

8. Can I Apply For A Scholarship Whatever Subject I Am Studying?

Principally yes: DAAD offers many scholarship programmes that are open to almost all subjects, although restrictions apply to some subjects (e.g. medicine).

There are also programmes that are aimed at very specific subject areas, such as architecture, music or computer science. In the Scholarship database, you can select the scholarships programmes that are offered for your subject group.

9. What Language Skills Do I Need To Apply For A Scholarship?

Not all programmes require a general minimum language level for funding applications. Depending on country of origin and scholarship programme, however, certain language skills may be expected. When a specific language level is required, this always refers to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). You can find out which requirements these are in the section "Application requirements" and under "Application documents" of the Call for Applications. Please read these requirements thoroughly to find out what applies to your programme and your country.

If you are awarded the scholarship, the DAAD can provide a preparatory German language course for you. The DAAD scholarship selection committee will assess whether such a German course is necessary for you and how many months (maximum six) are appropriate. These German courses will enable you to improve your German language skills. However, it is not realistic to reach the level required for university admission within the framework of these courses if you have no or only very limited German language skills by then.

In order to apply for a place at a German higher education institution and thus to start your scholarship, you must also submit proof of your language skills (e.g. DSH or TestDaF if the language of instruction is German; e.g. TOEFL or IELTS if the language of instruction is English). Level C1 is often required; however, this varies from degree programme to degree programme. Please contact your chosen host university as early as possible to find out about the requirements you need to meet. You can also find more information about the requirements on our website.

10. My German Language Skills Are Not Yet Sufficient. Are There E Learning Language Courses That I Can Take In My Home Country To Improve My Skills?

Yes, there are internet offers for learning German . For example, the Goethe-Institut as well as Deutsche-Uni Online (DUO) offer special online courses in German. For scholarship holders whose funding lasts longer than six months, DAAD will pay the costs of one DUO module.

Furthermore, you can find a wide range of free online content for learning German on Deutsche Welle on learngerman.dw.com.

11. I Am Considering Taking A Distance / Online / Part Time Course (E.g. Dual Course Of Study) In Germany. Am I Eligible To Apply For A Daad Scholarship?

No, DAAD scholarships are awarded to applicants wishing to complete a full-time course of study with compulsory attendance in Germany. This is why applicants wishing to take a blended learning or distance/e-learning programme or part-time programme (e.g. dual course of study) are not eligible for DAAD funding.

12. Can I Receive A Scholarship If I Do Not Live In Germany During The Funded Study Or Research Project? I Plan To Continue Living In My Home Country (A Neighbo

No, the DAAD can only fund you for a study or research project in Germany if you live in Germany for the entire duration of the scholarship.

13. I Already Have A Scholarship From The European Union, The Daad Or Another Organization In Germany. Can I Still Receive A Daad Scholarship?

If you are already funded by the DAAD, another German funding organization or another state agency in Germany, you cannot receive a scholarship from the DAAD at the same time.

An Erasmus scholarship is not compatible with a full DAAD scholarship. Scholarship holders in the "University Summer Courses in Germany" and "University Winter Courses in Germany" programmes as well as those who receive a partial scholarship from DAAD can also take advantage of ERASMUS funding.

14. I Already Had A Daad Scholarship, Can I Apply Again?

It is not possible to combine several study or research scholarships (with a funding period of at least 7 months) within one educational period (which ends with the completion of a Bachelor's, Master's, Diplom, state examination etc. and a doctorate).

Specialist and language courses (e.g. university summer courses) and internships can be combined with all other types of scholarships.

You can apply to the funding programmes „Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists “, „Study Visits for Academics - Artists and Architects“ and „Re-invitation of former scholarship holders“ several times, but as a rule no more than once every three years.

Funding in the programm „Research grants in Germany“ is only possible once per educational period, i.e. once during the doctorate and once during the postdoc phase.

15. How Good Do My Grades Have To Be In Order For Me To Receive A Daad Scholarship?

The DAAD primarily supports individuals with high academic achievements. As a rule, the scholarship programmes do not stipulate a minimum grade point average for the application. Academic performance (selection criterion "qualification") is nevertheless an important criterion for the award of the scholarship.

But good grades are not everything: other aspects are also taken into account that are also important, such as the quality of the project, language skills, motivation, extracurricular commitment, special circumstances, etc.

Further information on the selection criteria can be found at Section E.

16. In The Programme "Study Scholarships For Stem Disciplines A Tuition Free Degree Programme Must Be Selected. What Does That Mean Exactly?

This means that it must be a degree programme for which no general tuition fees are charged. General tuition fees are sometimes charged, for example, by private universities as well as by state universities in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg and by individual state universities in the federal state of Bavaria.

The so-called "semester fees" are not general tuition fees. They are charged by all universities in Germany.

If, in individual cases, the university confirms in writing that it will cover the tuition fees or that you are exempt from the fees, you can choose the relevant degree programme. At the time of application, it must be ensured and proven that no fees will be incurred for the entire duration of the studies. Please upload the relevant proof together with the other application documents.

On the subject of tuition fees, please also read question F.7 and the information on our website on the costs of living and studying in Germany.

B. Preparing Your Application

1. In the Call for Applications a so-called "letter of motivation" must be submitted. What does this mean?

In a letter of motivation, you are required to describe your professional and personal reasons for your planned project in Germany on at least one and no more than three pages.

A letter of motivation gives you the opportunity to describe your personality and the reasons why you are applying for DAAD funding in your own words. The following information and questions will help you write an informative letter of motivation.

• Facts about your education, skills and knowledge

• Studies: study programme, number of semesters, if applicable, degree

• Professional experience, if applicable

• Specialised knowledge, skills and language skills

• Prizes and awards (if applicable)

• Academic motivation

• Why do you wish to take the study programme or attend the language or specialist course for which you are applying?

• What appeals to you about your chosen university?

• What do you hope to gain from your stay in Germany (personal, professional, for your career)?

• Reasons for applying for a scholarship

• Why are you applying for a DAAD scholarship?

• What do you expect of this scholarship?

• How will the scholarship help you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals?

• Personal interests

• Here you can outline special extracurricular achievements and commitments or personal qualities that say something about your character.

2. The calls for applications for research grants require a so-called "proposal". What does this mean?

A proposal is a detailed and precise description of the project you have agreed to complete with your academic supervisor. In a proposal, you define the goals of your research work, reflect upon theoretical and methodical procedures and you describe the individual steps. You have to prepare and formulate the proposal yourself. Taking over proposals from others is a violation of the Rules of Good Academic Practice.

The objective

• What is the subject of your research project?

• Which steps are planned?

• What is the time schedule for your planned research project?

The structure

The proposal (unless otherwise stated in the scholarship announcement, maximum of 10 pages) should contain details about:

• The research field in general and the current state of research literature:

• What is the current state of research?

• Which theories/work of other academics will you draw upon?

• What theoretical framework or scientific models will you use? Explain the reasons why you are drawing on this theory or model. Are there competing theories/models and, if so, why are you not using these in your project?

• What is your research question?

• Key research questions (hypotheses), research objectives and academic relevance of the project:

• What do you intend to find out?

• What goals are you pursuing with your project?

• Research strategies/methods:

• How do you intend answering the research questions?

• How do you want to collect data (document analyses, quantitative or qualitative survey, experiment, etc.)?

• Which academic literature will you use?

• How will you evaluate results?

• What preparation have you already done or intend doing before funding begins?

• Ethical issues/anticipated difficulties related to collecting data

• Research bibliography: List of books and essays upon which your work is based.

Please note that the time plan must be uploaded to the DAAD portal as a separate document.

3. Is it permissible to use AI in preparing my application?

The use of artificial intelligence (AI tools) in application procedures is permitted as an aid provided that certain principles are observed:

Adherence to good Scientific Practice:

Applicants must comply with the principles of good scientific practice, particularly by ensuring the protection of intellectual property and the authenticity of submitted documents. Text passages derived from secondary sources must be properly cited and labelled.

Originality and Authenticity:

Even when using technical tools, the authenticity of your application must be maintained. Applicants’ unique qualities and characteristics should remain evident as these play an important role in the selection process.

Transparency and Disclosure Requirements:

The use of AI tools must be clearly indicated by stating in your documents that text passages were created with the help of an AI tool. Include the note ‘Produced with the aid of (tool used)’.

Data Usage Considerations:

You should note that data entered into AI tools may be reused by the provider. Exercising caution when handling personal data is therefore necessary.

Declaration of Authenticity:

Applicants must declare that the application was prepared independently, with proper attribution of resources and adherence to the principles of good scientific practice. This declaration also confirms the accuracy and truthfulness of the application.

1. In The Call For Applications A So Called "Letter Of Motivation" Must Be Submitted. What Does This Mean?

In a letter of motivation, you are required to describe your professional and personal reasons for your planned project in Germany on at least one and no more than three pages.

A letter of motivation gives you the opportunity to describe your personality and the reasons why you are applying for DAAD funding in your own words. The following information and questions will help you write an informative letter of motivation.

• Facts about your education, skills and knowledge

• Studies: study programme, number of semesters, if applicable, degree

• Professional experience, if applicable

• Specialised knowledge, skills and language skills

• Prizes and awards (if applicable)

• Academic motivation

• Why do you wish to take the study programme or attend the language or specialist course for which you are applying?

• What appeals to you about your chosen university?

• What do you hope to gain from your stay in Germany (personal, professional, for your career)?

• Reasons for applying for a scholarship

• Why are you applying for a DAAD scholarship?

• What do you expect of this scholarship?

• How will the scholarship help you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals?

• Personal interests

• Here you can outline special extracurricular achievements and commitments or personal qualities that say something about your character.

• Studies: study programme, number of semesters, if applicable, degree

• Professional experience, if applicable

• Specialised knowledge, skills and language skills

• Prizes and awards (if applicable)

• Why do you wish to take the study programme or attend the language or specialist course for which you are applying?

• What appeals to you about your chosen university?

• What do you hope to gain from your stay in Germany (personal, professional, for your career)?

• Why are you applying for a DAAD scholarship?

• What do you expect of this scholarship?

• How will the scholarship help you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals?

• Here you can outline special extracurricular achievements and commitments or personal qualities that say something about your character.

2. The Calls For Applications For Research Grants Require A So Called "Proposal". What Does This Mean?

A proposal is a detailed and precise description of the project you have agreed to complete with your academic supervisor. In a proposal, you define the goals of your research work, reflect upon theoretical and methodical procedures and you describe the individual steps. You have to prepare and formulate the proposal yourself. Taking over proposals from others is a violation of the Rules of Good Academic Practice.

The Objective

• What is the subject of your research project?

• Which steps are planned?

• What is the time schedule for your planned research project?

The Structure

The proposal (unless otherwise stated in the scholarship announcement, maximum of 10 pages) should contain details about:

• The research field in general and the current state of research literature:

• What is the current state of research?

• Which theories/work of other academics will you draw upon?

• What theoretical framework or scientific models will you use? Explain the reasons why you are drawing on this theory or model. Are there competing theories/models and, if so, why are you not using these in your project?

• What is your research question?

• Key research questions (hypotheses), research objectives and academic relevance of the project:

• What do you intend to find out?

• What goals are you pursuing with your project?

• Research strategies/methods:

• How do you intend answering the research questions?

• How do you want to collect data (document analyses, quantitative or qualitative survey, experiment, etc.)?

• Which academic literature will you use?

• How will you evaluate results?

• What preparation have you already done or intend doing before funding begins?

• Ethical issues/anticipated difficulties related to collecting data

• Research bibliography: List of books and essays upon which your work is based.

Please note that the time plan must be uploaded to the DAAD portal as a separate document.

3. Is It Permissible To Use Ai In Preparing My Application?

The use of artificial intelligence (AI tools) in application procedures is permitted as an aid provided that certain principles are observed:

Adherence to good Scientific Practice:

Applicants must comply with the principles of good scientific practice, particularly by ensuring the protection of intellectual property and the authenticity of submitted documents. Text passages derived from secondary sources must be properly cited and labelled.

Originality and Authenticity:

Even when using technical tools, the authenticity of your application must be maintained. Applicants’ unique qualities and characteristics should remain evident as these play an important role in the selection process.

Transparency and Disclosure Requirements:

The use of AI tools must be clearly indicated by stating in your documents that text passages were created with the help of an AI tool. Include the note ‘Produced with the aid of (tool used)’.

Data Usage Considerations:

You should note that data entered into AI tools may be reused by the provider. Exercising caution when handling personal data is therefore necessary.

Declaration of Authenticity:

Applicants must declare that the application was prepared independently, with proper attribution of resources and adherence to the principles of good scientific practice. This declaration also confirms the accuracy and truthfulness of the application.

C. Planning Your Project

1. Do I need contacts in Germany when I apply?

If you wish to carry out individual research or complete a doctorate in Germany, you need confirmation from a university teacher that you are being supervised in Germany (see question 2). If you are taking part in a structured doctoral programme, proof of existing contacts to a doctoral programme coordinator must be submitted in the form of respective correspondence.

If you wish to take a Master's degree in Germany, all you need to provide is information about your study programmes for which you would like to apply (see "Application procedure" in the Call for Applications).

2. I need a supervisor for my individual project in Germany. Who can be my host?

Hosts can be university teachers or academic teaching staff who work at a state or state-recognised institution of higher education or a non-university research institution in Germany. If possible, the host should have a professorial qualification in an academic field.

These tips on the site Research in Germany will help you find an academic supervisor.

3. I have already found a supervisor for my individual project. What documents do I need from him/her for the application?

You need a "Letter confirming academic supervision". With this, your academic host confirms their willingness to support you in carrying out your research project or doctorate. You must submit the confirmation of supervision together with your application.

Ideally, the letter of confirmation (informal) from your supervisor

• indicates that the description of your research project and schedule have been discussed,

• confirms that a workplace is available for you, and

• indicates which working language is spoken at the host institute.

4. I am planning to study for a Master's degree in Germany. What do I have to consider when applying for a place at university?

You will have to arrange your application for admission and possible matriculation at the host university yourself. Even a DAAD scholarship is no guarantee that you will get a place at a particular university in Germany. If you do not receive admission to study your scholarship will be forfeited.

It is therefore important that you inform yourself well in advance about the application requirements and deadlines and apply to several universities. When searching, also look for courses offered by universities of Applied sciences (HAW) or smaller universities. This will increase your chances of being admitted.

Information on suitable study programmes can be found, for example, in the database for international programmes or all degree programmes in the Higher Education Compass.

1. Do I Need Contacts In Germany When I Apply?

If you wish to carry out individual research or complete a doctorate in Germany, you need confirmation from a university teacher that you are being supervised in Germany (see question 2). If you are taking part in a structured doctoral programme, proof of existing contacts to a doctoral programme coordinator must be submitted in the form of respective correspondence.

If you wish to take a Master's degree in Germany, all you need to provide is information about your study programmes for which you would like to apply (see "Application procedure" in the Call for Applications).

2. I Need A Supervisor For My Individual Project In Germany. Who Can Be My Host?

Hosts can be university teachers or academic teaching staff who work at a state or state-recognised institution of higher education or a non-university research institution in Germany. If possible, the host should have a professorial qualification in an academic field.

These tips on the site Research in Germany will help you find an academic supervisor.

3. I Have Already Found A Supervisor For My Individual Project. What Documents Do I Need From Him/Her For The Application?

You need a "Letter confirming academic supervision". With this, your academic host confirms their willingness to support you in carrying out your research project or doctorate. You must submit the confirmation of supervision together with your application.

Ideally, the letter of confirmation (informal) from your supervisor

• indicates that the description of your research project and schedule have been discussed,

• confirms that a workplace is available for you, and

• indicates which working language is spoken at the host institute.

4. I Am Planning To Study For A Master's Degree In Germany. What Do I Have To Consider When Applying For A Place At University?

You will have to arrange your application for admission and possible matriculation at the host university yourself. Even a DAAD scholarship is no guarantee that you will get a place at a particular university in Germany. If you do not receive admission to study your scholarship will be forfeited.

It is therefore important that you inform yourself well in advance about the application requirements and deadlines and apply to several universities. When searching, also look for courses offered by universities of Applied sciences (HAW) or smaller universities. This will increase your chances of being admitted.

Information on suitable study programmes can be found, for example, in the database for international programmes or all degree programmes in the Higher Education Compass.

1. Is there an age limit for DAAD scholarships?

No, there is usually no fixed age limit. There are individual exceptions in programmes in which this is explicitly requested by an international partner. Most scholarship programmes stipulate that only a certain amount of time should have elapsed since the last degree was obtained (see also question 2). For details, please refer to the respective Call for Applications at www.funding-guide.de under the heading "Application requirements".

2. I finished my university degree or started my doctorate longer ago than the application requirements specify. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, an application may be permissible under the following circumstances which may have a delaying effect on studies or doctoral projects:

• pregnancy and childbirth

• care of children up to the age of 12 (maximum of three years per child)

• care of care-dependent relatives

• disability or chronic illness

• prolonged, serious illness

• compulsory military service

• if applicable, other circumstances.

The dates of birth of children and periods of childcare or care of relatives or longer periods of absence due to illness or disability should be indicated in the application form; the last free text field "Other comments / Information" is available for this purpose. DAAD reserves the right to ask you to submit appropriate supporting documents.

Please provide proof of disabilities or illnesses in the form of a disability card or medical certificate. If possible, the medical certificate should indicate the periods of absence.

Information about studying abroad with a disability or chronic illness is provided in the following: Mobility with a Disability.

Other circumstances must also be justified and substantiated with supporting documents.

3. I have not completed my university degree by the application deadline. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

Yes, in most programmes which require a first university degree, you can apply in your last year of study. You must then meet all the academic requirements set out in the Call for Applications by the time your funding period begins. Also, you can hand in your degree later; it must be submitted before the start of the funding period.

Please note that this regulation does not apply to the Study scholarships - Master's degree programme for STEM subjects’ programme. You can apply for this programme if you have completed your studies with a first degree recognised in Germany (e.g. Bachelor's degree) by the application deadline at the latest.

4. I'm already in Germany. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, if you have been in Germany for a maximum of 15 months by the closing date for applications and the Call for Scholarship Applications makes no other specifications.

5. I am not currently living in my country of origin. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

An application from your current country of residence is possible under certain circumstances:

• If you wish to apply for a short-term scholarship (up to 6 months), you must have lived in your country of residence for at least one year at the time of application and have a residence there.

• If you would like to come to Germany for more than 6 months, you must also have obtained your last degree (e.g. Bachelor/Master) in your country of residence or obtain this degree until the start of the scholarship.

In any case, you can apply from your country of origin, even if you currently live in another country and meet the above requirements. Your country of origin is usually the country in which you have spent most of your life and may differ from your nationality.

Example: You were born and raised in Albania and have lived in the UK for four years , where you also obtained your Bachelor's degree. It is best to apply from the UK as you have a UK degree. It is possible to apply from Albania as an alternative. - However, you may not apply from both countries at the same time.

If you are from Germany, you may only apply from your current country of residence if you can prove that your main centre of life is in that country and that you have lived there for at least ten years, or for at least five years whilst having strong ties to that country (e. g. through a permanent employment contract, dual citizenship or an unlimited residence permit).

We strongly recommend that you seek information and advice to find out which scholarship programmes are available to you. Contact persons are listed in the Scholarship database under "Contact and advice".

6. I have dual citizenship. From which country should I apply?

Dual nationals must apply from their country of origin (usually the country where you have spent most of your life). If the requirements are met, an application from the current country of residence is also possible, as described above (A5). Nationality alone does not entitle you to apply from a country you have never lived in and are not currently living in.

Example: You were born and raised in Argentina, currently live there and have Argentinean and Italian citizenship. You can only apply from Argentina. It is not possible to apply from Italy.

7. I am enrolled in a study programme at a German university and aim to complete this degree in Germany, or I am completing a doctoral degree at a German university. Can I apply for a DAAD scholarship for a stay in a country other than Germany?

Under the following conditions, foreign nationals who live in Germany may also apply for a DAAD scholarhip for stays in other countries than Germany.

• You are enrolled in a study programme at a German university with the aim of obtaining a degree from the German university, or

• you are doing your doctorate at a German university

and want do go abroad during this time. This regulation does not apply to international students/doctoral candidates who are already being funded with an "Incoming DAAD scholarship" in Germany.

In addition, persons of equal status to Germans according to § 8 Para. 1 Number 2ff. Paragraph 2, Paragraph 2a, and Paragraph 3 BAföG can apply. In this context, the wording of the law applies, which can be found here.

Furthermore, it will be checked to what extent there is a connection to Germany and whether there is a justified expectation that you will return to Germany after the end of the temporary stay abroad.

A funding in your home country is usually excluded.

Programmes for funding abroad for students in Germany are listed in our scholarship database www.auslands-stipendien.de.

8. Can I apply for a scholarship whatever subject I am studying?

Principally yes: DAAD offers many scholarship programmes that are open to almost all subjects, although restrictions apply to some subjects (e.g. medicine).

There are also programmes that are aimed at very specific subject areas, such as architecture, music or computer science. In the Scholarship database, you can select the scholarships programmes that are offered for your subject group.

9. What language skills do I need to apply for a scholarship?

Not all programmes require a general minimum language level for funding applications. Depending on country of origin and scholarship programme, however, certain language skills may be expected. When a specific language level is required, this always refers to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). You can find out which requirements these are in the section "Application requirements" and under "Application documents" of the Call for Applications. Please read these requirements thoroughly to find out what applies to your programme and your country.

If you are awarded the scholarship, the DAAD can provide a preparatory German language course for you. The DAAD scholarship selection committee will assess whether such a German course is necessary for you and how many months (maximum six) are appropriate. These German courses will enable you to improve your German language skills. However, it is not realistic to reach the level required for university admission within the framework of these courses if you have no or only very limited German language skills by then.

In order to apply for a place at a German higher education institution and thus to start your scholarship, you must also submit proof of your language skills (e.g. DSH or TestDaF if the language of instruction is German; e.g. TOEFL or IELTS if the language of instruction is English). Level C1 is often required; however, this varies from degree programme to degree programme. Please contact your chosen host university as early as possible to find out about the requirements you need to meet. You can also find more information about the requirements on our website.

10. My German language skills are not yet sufficient. Are there e-learning language courses that I can take in my home country to improve my skills?

Yes, there are internet offers for learning German . For example, the Goethe-Institut as well as Deutsche-Uni Online (DUO) offer special online courses in German. For scholarship holders whose funding lasts longer than six months, DAAD will pay the costs of one DUO module.

Furthermore, you can find a wide range of free online content for learning German on Deutsche Welle on learngerman.dw.com.

11. I am considering taking a distance / online / part-time course (e.g. dual course of study) in Germany. Am I eligible to apply for a DAAD scholarship?

No, DAAD scholarships are awarded to applicants wishing to complete a full-time course of study with compulsory attendance in Germany. This is why applicants wishing to take a blended learning or distance/e-learning programme or part-time programme (e.g. dual course of study) are not eligible for DAAD funding.

12. Can I receive a scholarship if I do not live in Germany during the funded study or research project? I plan to continue living in my home country (a neighbouring country of Germany) during the scholarship and commute or carry out the project online.

No, the DAAD can only fund you for a study or research project in Germany if you live in Germany for the entire duration of the scholarship.

13. I already have a scholarship from the European Union, the DAAD or another organization in Germany. Can I still receive a DAAD scholarship?

If you are already funded by the DAAD, another German funding organization or another state agency in Germany, you cannot receive a scholarship from the DAAD at the same time.

An Erasmus scholarship is not compatible with a full DAAD scholarship. Scholarship holders in the "University Summer Courses in Germany" and "University Winter Courses in Germany" programmes as well as those who receive a partial scholarship from DAAD can also take advantage of ERASMUS funding.

14. I already had a DAAD scholarship, can I apply again?

It is not possible to combine several study or research scholarships (with a funding period of at least 7 months) within one educational period (which ends with the completion of a Bachelor's, Master's, Diplom, state examination etc. and a doctorate).

Specialist and language courses (e.g. university summer courses) and internships can be combined with all other types of scholarships.

You can apply to the funding programmes „Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists “, „Study Visits for Academics - Artists and Architects“ and „Re-invitation of former scholarship holders“ several times, but as a rule no more than once every three years.

Funding in the programm „Research grants in Germany“ is only possible once per educational period, i.e. once during the doctorate and once during the postdoc phase.

15. How good do my grades have to be in order for me to receive a DAAD scholarship?

The DAAD primarily supports individuals with high academic achievements. As a rule, the scholarship programmes do not stipulate a minimum grade point average for the application. Academic performance (selection criterion "qualification") is nevertheless an important criterion for the award of the scholarship.

But good grades are not everything: other aspects are also taken into account that are also important, such as the quality of the project, language skills, motivation, extracurricular commitment, special circumstances, etc.

Further information on the selection criteria can be found at Section E.

16. In the programme "Study scholarships for STEM disciplines a tuition-free degree programme must be selected. What does that mean exactly?

This means that it must be a degree programme for which no general tuition fees are charged. General tuition fees are sometimes charged, for example, by private universities as well as by state universities in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg and by individual state universities in the federal state of Bavaria.

The so-called "semester fees" are not general tuition fees. They are charged by all universities in Germany.

If, in individual cases, the university confirms in writing that it will cover the tuition fees or that you are exempt from the fees, you can choose the relevant degree programme. At the time of application, it must be ensured and proven that no fees will be incurred for the entire duration of the studies. Please upload the relevant proof together with the other application documents.

On the subject of tuition fees, please also read question F.7 and the information on our website on the costs of living and studying in Germany.

Yes, an application may be permissible under the following circumstances which may have a delaying effect on studies or doctoral projects:

• pregnancy and childbirth

• care of children up to the age of 12 (maximum of three years per child)

• care of care-dependent relatives

• disability or chronic illness

• prolonged, serious illness

• compulsory military service

• if applicable, other circumstances.

The dates of birth of children and periods of childcare or care of relatives or longer periods of absence due to illness or disability should be indicated in the application form; the last free text field "Other comments / Information" is available for this purpose. DAAD reserves the right to ask you to submit appropriate supporting documents.

Please provide proof of disabilities or illnesses in the form of a disability card or medical certificate. If possible, the medical certificate should indicate the periods of absence.

Information about studying abroad with a disability or chronic illness is provided in the following: Mobility with a Disability.

Other circumstances must also be justified and substantiated with supporting documents.

Yes, in most programmes which require a first university degree, you can apply in your last year of study. You must then meet all the academic requirements set out in the Call for Applications by the time your funding period begins. Also, you can hand in your degree later; it must be submitted before the start of the funding period.

Please note that this regulation does not apply to the Study scholarships - Master's degree programme for STEM subjects’ programme. You can apply for this programme if you have completed your studies with a first degree recognised in Germany (e.g. Bachelor's degree) by the application deadline at the latest.

Yes, if you have been in Germany for a maximum of 15 months by the closing date for applications and the Call for Scholarship Applications makes no other specifications.

An application from your current country of residence is possible under certain circumstances:

• If you wish to apply for a short-term scholarship (up to 6 months), you must have lived in your country of residence for at least one year at the time of application and have a residence there.

• If you would like to come to Germany for more than 6 months, you must also have obtained your last degree (e.g. Bachelor/Master) in your country of residence or obtain this degree until the start of the scholarship.

In any case, you can apply from your country of origin, even if you currently live in another country and meet the above requirements. Your country of origin is usually the country in which you have spent most of your life and may differ from your nationality.

Example: You were born and raised in Albania and have lived in the UK for four years , where you also obtained your Bachelor's degree. It is best to apply from the UK as you have a UK degree. It is possible to apply from Albania as an alternative. - However, you may not apply from both countries at the same time.

If you are from Germany, you may only apply from your current country of residence if you can prove that your main centre of life is in that country and that you have lived there for at least ten years, or for at least five years whilst having strong ties to that country (e. g. through a permanent employment contract, dual citizenship or an unlimited residence permit).

We strongly recommend that you seek information and advice to find out which scholarship programmes are available to you. Contact persons are listed in the Scholarship database under "Contact and advice".

No, DAAD scholarships are awarded to applicants wishing to complete a full-time course of study with compulsory attendance in Germany. This is why applicants wishing to take a blended learning or distance/e-learning programme or part-time programme (e.g. dual course of study) are not eligible for DAAD funding.

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