Top Scholarships in Germany 2026: Fully Funded Opportunities for Bachelor’s & Master’s Students

Every year, thousands of international students dream of Scholarships in Germany because of its high-quality education system and globally respected universities. Germany is home to some of the best public institutions in Europe, and the most surprising part is that most of them charge little or no tuition fees. This makes the country one of the most affordable study destinations in the world.

However, even though tuition is often free, living in Germany still costs money. Students must pay for accommodation, food, transport, health insurance, and study materials. For many students, these monthly expenses can be stressful. That is why scholarships in Germany are extremely important. They help cover living costs and allow you to focus on your studies without worrying about working long hours at part-time jobs.

In this complete guide, you will discover the best scholarships in Germany for bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students. We will explain where to find them, what they cover, and how to apply successfully. If you read carefully and prepare early, you can significantly increase your chances of studying in Germany with full financial support.

Why Students Choose Germany For Their Studies

Germany has become one of the top study destinations for international students for several reasons:

• Most public universities charge zero or very low tuition fees.
• Degrees from German universities are respected worldwide.
• Students can work part-time while studying.
• Germany has strong job opportunities after graduation.
• Programs are offered in both English and German.
• Many scholarships focus on covering living expenses.

Because tuition is already affordable, scholarships in Germany often provide monthly financial support between €700 and €1,200, which is usually enough to cover rent, food, and insurance.

Main Types Of Scholarships In Germany

There are four major scholarship categories you should explore. Each one has different requirements, so it’s important not to rely on just one option.

• Government-funded scholarships
• University scholarships
• Foundation scholarships
• Private or company-sponsored scholarships

Top Scholarships In Germany For International Students

Below are some of the most reliable and popular scholarships you can apply for.

DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)

The DAAD scholarship is the largest and most prestigious funding program in Germany for international students. It supports bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD students from around the world.

Benefits usually include:

• Monthly stipend between €900 and €1,200
• Health insurance coverage
• Travel allowance
• Research or family support in some cases

DAAD is competitive, but selection focuses strongly on your motivation, career goals, and impact — not just grades. Applications typically open 8–12 months before studies begin.

Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship)

The Deutschlandstipendium is one of the easiest scholarships to access because you apply directly through your university. It provides €300 per month and is funded jointly by the German government and private sponsors.

Unlike many scholarships, it does not only look at academic grades. Community service, leadership, and extracurricular activities are also considered. This makes it perfect for students who may not have perfect GPAs.

Political & Foundation Scholarships

Many German foundations offer scholarships based on values, leadership, and social engagement rather than academic performance. These scholarships often provide €900–€1,300 monthly support.

Popular foundations include:

• Friedrich Ebert Stiftung – social justice and democracy
• Heinrich Böll Stiftung – sustainability and environment
• Konrad Adenauer Stiftung – leadership and public service
• Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung – equality and social change

When applying, tailor your motivation letter to match the foundation’s mission and values.

University-Based Scholarships

Most German universities also offer their own scholarships for international students. These programs often receive fewer applications, which increases your chances of success.

Examples include scholarships from universities like TU Munich, Heidelberg, Hamburg, and Leipzig. They usually support students with strong academic results and active community involvement.

Company & Private Scholarships

Large German companies also sponsor students, especially in engineering, IT, and science fields. Companies such as Siemens, BMW, and BASF provide funding and sometimes internships or job opportunities after graduation.

These scholarships may offer €500–€1,500 per month and are excellent for students who want to build careers in technical industries.

How To Apply For Scholarships In Germany

Applying becomes easier when you follow a clear plan. Here are the basic steps:

• Choose your study program and university first
• Search for scholarships early (at least 1 year ahead)
• Prepare transcripts, CV, and certificates
• Write a strong motivation letter
• Get recommendation letters
• Submit before deadlines
• Check your email regularly for updates

Tips To Increase Your Chances Of Winning

• Start applications early
• Customize each motivation letter
• Highlight leadership and volunteer work
• Show clear career goals
• Apply to multiple scholarships, not just one
• Research smaller local scholarships with less competition

FAQs

Can international students get fully funded scholarships in Germany?

Yes, international students can get fully funded scholarships in Germany. Programs like DAAD and several foundation scholarships cover monthly living expenses, health insurance, travel costs, and sometimes research grants. Since most public universities already have little or no tuition fees, these scholarships are often enough to cover your total study costs.

Do I need perfect grades to get a scholarship in Germany?

No, you do not need perfect grades. While good academic performance helps, many German scholarships also consider leadership skills, community service, motivation, and personal achievements. Programs like the Deutschlandstipendium and foundation scholarships look beyond GPA.

How much money do German scholarships pay per month?

Most scholarships in Germany provide between €700 and €1,200 per month. Some programs for PhD or research students may offer up to €1,500 monthly. This amount usually covers rent, food, transport, and insurance for students.

Is Germany really tuition-free for international students?

Yes, most public universities in Germany charge little or no tuition fees for both domestic and international students. You may only pay a small semester contribution fee, usually between €150 and €350, which covers administrative services and public transport.

What is the best scholarship in Germany for international students?

The DAAD scholarship is considered the best and most popular option because it provides comprehensive financial support, covers multiple study levels, and has strong international recognition. However, foundation and university scholarships can also be excellent alternatives with less competition.

When should I apply for scholarships in Germany?

You should apply at least 8 to 12 months before your program starts. Many German scholarships open applications early, and deadlines close quickly. Starting early gives you enough time to prepare documents and write strong motivation letters.

Can I work while studying in Germany with a scholarship?

Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time while studying in Germany. You can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Many students combine scholarships with small part-time jobs to comfortably cover all living expenses.

Where can I find scholarships in Germany easily?

You can search for scholarships on the DAAD scholarship database, your university’s official website, foundation websites, and scholarship search platforms like mystipendium.de. Checking multiple sources increases your chances of finding hidden or lesser-known opportunities.

Do I need IELTS or TOEFL to apply for German scholarships?

Many English-taught programs require proof of English proficiency such as IELTS or TOEFL. However, some universities may accept other proof like previous education in English or alternative language tests. Always check the specific scholarship and university requirements.

Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?

Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships at the same time. In fact, applying to several programs increases your chances of receiving funding. Just make sure you carefully follow each application’s rules and deadlines.

Conclusion

Studying in Germany does not have to be expensive or limited to top students only. With tuition-free universities and numerous scholarship opportunities, international students now have more chances than ever to achieve their academic dreams. Whether you apply for DAAD, foundation funding, university grants, or private scholarships, there is financial support available if you search carefully and apply strategically.

Start early, stay organized, and don’t give up after one rejection. With proper preparation, you could soon be studying in Germany with your living expenses fully covered. Your journey might be closer than you think.