Dreaming of studying in Germany without worrying about tuition fees or living expenses? Germany is one of the most popular study destinations in the world, offering high-quality education, world-class research opportunities, and, most importantly, scholarships in Germany for international students. These scholarships help talented and hardworking students from all over the world achieve their academic dreams in Europe’s economic powerhouse.
But you might be wondering: Which scholarships in Germany are the best for international students? Are there fully funded options available? What qualifications do I need to apply? How do I stand out from other applicants? These are some of the most frequently asked questions by students who are looking to study in Germany with financial aid.
This page answers all those questions and more. We have carefully selected the best scholarships in Germany for international students based on their benefits, eligibility, and popularity. Whether you are aiming for a bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program, this guide will help you find the right scholarship and show you how to apply successfully. So, stay with us as we walk you through golden opportunities that could shape your future—and help you save money while studying in Germany.
Scholarships in Germany for International Students
1. DAAD Scholarships (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst)
The DAAD Scholarship is one of the most popular scholarships in Germany for international students. It supports students from many countries who want to study in Master’s or PhD programs in Germany.
The DAAD pays for tuition, monthly living costs, health insurance, and travel expenses. It is perfect for students who have finished their first degree and want to continue their education in Germany. There are different types of DAAD scholarships, depending on the subject and level of study.
- Type: Master’s & PhD
- For: Students from all countries
- Covers: Living costs, insurance, travel, tuition
Apply here: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/
2. Erasmus+ Program in Germany
The Erasmus+ Program is a European Union scholarship that also supports students who want to study in Germany. It is one of the top scholarships in Germany for international students from Europe and other partner countries.
If you are applying for a Master’s or exchange program, you can receive help with tuition fees, travel, and monthly living allowance. Many German universities take part in Erasmus+, making it easier for students to find courses in English.
- Type: Master’s & Exchange
- For: Students from EU and partner countries
- Covers: Tuition, travel, and monthly allowance
Apply here: https://erasmus-plus.ec.europa.eu/
3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
The Heinrich Böll Foundation gives scholarships in Germany for international students who are studying Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD programs. It supports students who are environmentally or socially active and who show strong academic skills.
The scholarship gives monthly money to help with living costs. It also offers chances to attend events and seminars that help students grow in leadership and research.
- Type: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- For: Socially and environmentally engaged students
- Covers: Living expenses
Apply here: https://www.boell.de/en/foundation/application
4. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship
The KAS Scholarship is offered by the Konrad-Adenauer Foundation. It supports international students who have shown leadership, community involvement, and good academic results.
The scholarship is available for Master’s and PhD students, and it covers monthly allowances, health insurance, and some travel costs. Students are also invited to take part in conferences and workshops.
- Type: Master’s and PhD
- For: Students with leadership and good grades
- Covers: Monthly stipend, insurance, and seminars
Apply here: https://www.kas.de/en/web/begabtenfoerderung-und-kultur/home
5. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships
The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) offers scholarships in Germany for international students who want to make a difference in society. This scholarship is for students who are politically active or socially committed, especially those who come from poor backgrounds.
It is available for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs. The scholarship gives a monthly allowance, health insurance, and sometimes funding for books or other study needs.
- Type: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD
- For: Students with social and political involvement
- Covers: Monthly support, health, books
Apply here: https://www.fes.de/studienfoerderung/
6. Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships
The Rosa Luxemburg Foundation offers scholarships in Germany for international students who are passionate about social change and justice. This scholarship is for students who are doing their Master’s or PhD studies in a German university. The foundation prefers applicants who are active in politics, human rights, or social justice.
It supports students with monthly financial help, and sometimes covers other study costs like travel and research. However, students must speak German well, even if they are studying in English. It’s a great chance for students who want to grow both academically and socially.
Apply here: https://www.rosalux.de/en/foundation/studienwerk
7. Humboldt Research Fellowship
The Humboldt Fellowship is one of the best research scholarships in Germany for international students who already have a PhD or are experienced researchers. It supports researchers from around the world who want to work on a project at a university or research institution in Germany.
The fellowship offers a monthly allowance, plus money for travel and research. It also supports families of researchers. This scholarship helps people build strong global connections in science and research.
Apply here: https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/
8. RWTH Aachen University Scholarships
RWTH Aachen University is one of the top technical universities in Germany. It offers many scholarships in Germany for international students, especially those applying for Master’s programs in engineering and science. The scholarships are usually merit-based, meaning you need good grades to qualify.
These scholarships can help pay part or all of your tuition fees. Some students also receive monthly financial support to help with living expenses. This makes studying at RWTH Aachen more affordable for international students.
Apply here: https://www.rwth-aachen.de/go/id/a/?lidx=1
9. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship Program)
The Deutschlandstipendium is a national scholarship that supports talented and hardworking students at public universities across Germany. It is open to both local and international students studying for Bachelor’s or Master’s degrees.
Each student receives €300 every month—half of this comes from the German government, and the other half from private sponsors. The best part is that this scholarship does not consider your parents’ income or nationality. If you’re doing well in school and are socially active, you have a good chance.
Apply here: https://www.deutschlandstipendium.de/
10. University of Freiburg Global Scholarship
The University of Freiburg, one of the oldest and most respected universities in Germany, offers a Global Scholarship for international students starting their Master’s programs. This scholarship supports top-performing students by covering part of their tuition fees and sometimes a small amount for living expenses.
To get this scholarship, you need strong academic results and a good motivation letter. It is a great opportunity for students who want high-quality education at one of Germany’s top universities.
Apply here: https://www.uni-freiburg.de/
Frequently Asked Questions About Scholarships in Germany for International Students
Can I study in Germany for free as an international student?
Yes, public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. However, you still need to pay for your living expenses. This is where scholarships in Germany for international students can help by offering monthly allowances and other support.
Can I get a scholarship to study in Germany without IELTS?
Yes, some universities and scholarships accept other proofs of English or German proficiency. However, most international students are required to show a language certificate like IELTS or TOEFL, unless they studied in an English-speaking country.
When is the best time to apply for scholarships in Germany?
The best time to apply is 6–12 months before your program starts. Many scholarships in Germany for international students have early deadlines, so always check the date and apply on time.
Are there scholarships for undergraduate students in Germany?
Yes, although most scholarships are for Master’s and PhD programs, some foundations and organizations offer support for Bachelor’s degree students as well. Look into Friedrich Ebert Stiftung and Heinrich Böll Foundation for undergraduate options.