Germany is one of the top destinations for international students. It offers high-quality education, world-class universities, and excellent research opportunities. The best part is the availability of fully funded scholarships.
These scholarships cover tuition fees, monthly stipends, health insurance, and travel costs. This financial support allows students to focus on their studies without worrying about expenses.
Each program supports talented individuals who later contribute to development, innovation, and global cooperation. With over ten major scholarships, Germany provides opportunities for Master’s, PhD, and professional training.
List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany
1. DAAD Scholarships
The DAAD is the largest scholarship provider in Germany. It funds Master’s and PhD programs across multiple fields.
- Monthly stipend: €992 for Master’s, €1,300–€1,400 for PhD (increase to €1,400 starting February 2026).
- Duration: 12–48 months depending on the program.
- Benefits: health insurance, accident/liability insurance, travel allowance, one-time study allowance, family/rent support.
👉 Learn more: DAAD Scholarship 2025 Fully Funded for International Students
2. Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports students with strong civic engagement and a commitment to social democracy. It is open to both Master’s and PhD students.
- Covers living costs, insurance, and tuition-related expenses.
- Provides academic and personal mentoring.
- Ideal for students promoting social justice and community development.
👉 Explore details: Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship
3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
The Heinrich Böll Foundation awards about 1,000 scholarships each year. It supports university and PhD students across all fields.
- Focus on sustainability, social responsibility, and political engagement.
- Provides full financial coverage for tuition and living costs.
- Open to international students with strong academic records.
4. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship
This program targets international Master’s and PhD students who demonstrate leadership potential.
- Includes monthly allowance, health insurance, and travel support.
- Requires excellent academic performance and active social involvement.
- Supports studies in political science, law, economics, and related fields.
5. Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes
This is Germany’s most prestigious national scholarship foundation.
- Supports Bachelor, Master, and PhD students.
- PhD students may receive up to €1,650 monthly.
- Provides academic mentoring and exclusive training opportunities.
6. Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowships
The foundation funds research stays in Germany for postdoctoral scholars.
- Awards over 700 fellowships annually.
- Covers stipend, travel costs, and research expenses.
- Supports scholars in science, engineering, and humanities.
7. International Parliamentary Scholarship (IPS)
The German Bundestag organizes this program for graduates worldwide.
- Duration: 5 months in Berlin.
- Provides stipend, housing, and cultural training.
- Offers direct experience in parliamentary work.
8. Robert Bosch Foundation Fellowship Program
This fellowship is designed for U.S. professionals.
- Duration: 9–12 months.
- Monthly stipend of €3,000 plus insurance and travel.
- Focuses on public policy, law, media, and cultural exchange.
9. Erasmus Mundus Joint Programmes
These EU-funded programs are often hosted in German universities.
- Fully cover tuition, living costs, travel, and insurance.
- Offer joint Master’s or PhD degrees.
- Duration: typically 12–24 months.
10. SBW Berlin Scholarship
The SBW Berlin Scholarship funds students who are socially active and committed to development projects.
- Age requirement: 18–30 years.
- Covers tuition, housing, and living allowance.
- Requires applicants to engage in social projects during studies.
Comparison Table
| Scholarship Program | Level | Monthly Stipend | Duration | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAAD Scholarships | Master’s, PhD | €992–€1,400 | 12–48 months | Stipend, insurance, travel |
| Friedrich Ebert Foundation | Master’s, PhD | Living costs + insurance | Varies | Civic engagement focus |
| Heinrich Böll Foundation | All levels | Tuition + living | Varies | Sustainability focus |
| Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung | Master’s, PhD | Allowances + travel | Varies | Leadership focus |
| Studienstiftung | Bachelor–PhD | Up to €1,650 | Varies | Prestigious mentoring |
| Humboldt Foundation | Postdoctoral | Research stipend | Flexible | 700+ fellowships |
| IPS | Graduate | Stipend + housing | 5 months | Parliamentary internship |
| Bosch Fellowship | Professionals (U.S.) | €3,000 | 9–12 months | Professional exchange |
| Erasmus Mundus | Master’s, PhD | Full coverage | 12–24 months | Joint EU programs |
| SBW Berlin | University | Full coverage | Varies | Social projects |
How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany
- Check eligibility criteria for each scholarship.
- Prepare required documents: CV, transcripts, degree certificates, motivation letter, and recommendations.
- Submit applications directly to universities or scholarship portals.
- Follow deadlines carefully.
Deadlines (2025–2026)
- DAAD: August–November 2025 (some until March 2026)
- Friedrich Ebert: April and October 2025
- Heinrich Böll: Spring and Fall 2025
- Erasmus Mundus: December 2025 – January 2026
Related Guides
- DAAD Scholarship 2025 Fully Funded for International Students
- Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship
- Germany Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
Conclusion
Germany offers more than ten fully funded scholarships for international students. These programs cover all major expenses and provide excellent opportunities for academic growth. DAAD remains the most popular, but other foundations such as Friedrich Ebert and Heinrich Böll also provide strong support.
