Studying in Germany opens up many opportunities in today’s competitive job market. The country has a large number of universities and is also a promising destination for students pursuing Bachelor’s programs and Master’s programs. The idea of studying in Germany can be very attractive, but financially, it can still be a challenging path. Scholarships in Germany can help reduce the monetary burden on the way to your diploma.
Another great thing is that most public German universities do not charge tuition fees, although students usually need to pay semester contributions and, depending on the federal state and university, possible tuition fees. So, if you want to study in Germany without spending too much, this article discusses some of Germany’s best scholarships for international students. We’ve also included stories of scholarship recipients for scholarships where we have stories available. Take a look at those stories if you are interested!
Types of Scholarships in Germany
Numerous scholarships are available for domestic and international students, and they vary in type and coverage. Scholarships are mainly separated into three categories: external scholarships, which are awarded by institutions and organizations outside the university; governmental scholarships, which are offered by the country’s government as financial support for domestic and international students; and university scholarships, which are offered by specific universities and are often merit-based or need-based.
Best External Scholarships in Germany
As stated above, these external scholarships are offered by different organizations and can often be used at universities in Germany. Some scholarships have restrictions based on nationality, degree level, academic field, language proficiency, or enrollment status, so always check the official scholarship pages before applying.
1. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung is a non-profit political foundation in Berlin, Germany, that promotes social democracy in the country and worldwide. It aims to support activities that uphold the same values and assists students who give importance to social democracy. This scholarship is open to students and doctoral candidates in Germany, including international students who meet the eligibility requirements.
To qualify for this scholarship in Germany, applicants should have strong academic records, social or political engagement, and an identification with the basic values of social democracy. Applicants also need sufficient German language skills, must live in Germany, and must be studying at a German university. Applications are submitted in German through the official website. For applicants from abroad, enrollment at a German university or, for doctoral candidates, supervision for doctoral studies is required.
2. Heinrich Boll Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D. for most international applicants; Bachelor’s funding is generally limited to German students or international students who completed secondary education in Germany
The Heinrich Böll Foundation in Berlin, Germany, is an independent political foundation formed in 1997. This foundation aims to promote political education in Germany and internationally. It supports students and doctoral candidates who demonstrate strong academic performance and share the foundation’s values.
These scholarships are available to eligible international students who want to study in Germany, especially graduate and doctoral applicants. International students who completed their first degree abroad can apply before beginning a Master’s degree program in Germany. You can start your application through the online application portal. Please note that good knowledge of German is required, and proof of German language proficiency must be provided when applying. Other documents and forms are detailed on the website. Supporting documents generally need to be uploaded through the portal and, where required, translated into German.
3. Erasmus Scholarship Programs in Germany
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Full scholarship contribution to participation costs, travel, visa, and living allowance
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s
- Meet the Erasmus Mundus Scholars: Explore scholarship journeys including Sharveri Khapre from India and Sania Ejaz from Pakistan
International postgraduate students can apply for scholarships through the Erasmus Mundus scholarship program. Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters are international master’s programs delivered by consortia of higher education institutions, and some programs include German universities as study destinations. This is a great opportunity because full scholarships can cover participation costs and contribute to travel, visa, and living costs. The main advantage of this scholarship is that it helps students gain international experience by studying in more than one country and building networks with students from around the world.
Here is what Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Scholars Say:
“This funding provided a monthly stipend and a separate annual travel allowance, both of which were sufficient to cover my living expenses and travel.”
Sania Ejaz
“Before applying to my current program, I spent about a year preparing extensively, researching the curriculum, connecting with Erasmus Mundus alumni, taking the IELTS, and crafting strong motivation letters, ensuring my application stood out.”
Dia
“Through Neurasmus, I have the incredible opportunity to study in two European countries: Portugal and Germany.”
Sharveri Khapre
4. Bayer Foundation Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D., and medical students; selected programs also support student teachers and educators
The Bayer Foundation offers fellowships and stipends for outstanding students who want to pursue international research projects, internships, and related study activities. These fellowships are available to eligible domestic and international applicants, including students who plan to conduct research projects in Germany or abroad.
One of the main conditions for this scholarship is that candidates must show strong talent, potential, and motivation to pursue research or educational projects that contribute to innovation in their respective fields.
5. Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Fellowships
This scholarship opportunity is connected to the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, especially doctoral research positions offered through MSCA Doctoral Networks. These networks are designed to train doctoral candidates through partnerships of organizations across Europe and beyond, including some opportunities in Germany. Funding may include a living allowance, mobility allowance, family allowance where applicable, and support for research, training, and networking costs.
Here is what Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Fellowship Scholars Say:
“This fellowship provided a living allowance, a mobility allowance, and funding to support research, training, and networking activities.”
Hilal
“Applying for scholarships while studying can be demanding, so start early and create a clear application plan.”
Hilal
6. Mawista Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Previously a one-time award; since 2024, MAWISTA states that it only funds the Deutschlandstipendium scholarship
- Eligible Degree/s: Students studying abroad with a child; current MAWISTA support is through Deutschlandstipendium sponsorship
This scholarship is different from many other scholarships offered in Germany because it was created to support students studying abroad with a child. Studying in a foreign country while caring for children is a major challenge. In the past, MAWISTA awarded a scholarship every year, and the winner received a one-time payment of €3,000. However, MAWISTA states that from 2024 onward, it only funds the Deutschlandstipendium scholarship.
Students interested in MAWISTA support should therefore check the official scholarship page and the Deutschlandstipendium information before applying, as the original MAWISTA “Studying Abroad with a Child” scholarship is no longer listed as an annual standalone application in the same way.
7. Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s and Ph.D. for most international applicants; other study scholarships are available only to applicants who meet specific BAföG-related eligibility criteria
The Scholarship Department of the Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung awards grants to eligible international Master’s students and doctoral students who are temporarily residing in Germany for study or research purposes. Awards are granted to students who have strong academic performance and demonstrate political and social engagement in line with the foundation’s aims. German language proficiency at B2 level or above is required.
This scholarship does not cover tuition fees. Instead, it focuses on helping students cover living expenses and other study-related costs while they are in Germany.
Best Government Scholarships in Germany
8. Deutschlandstipendium Program (German Public-Private Scholarship)
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and other eligible degree programs depending on the university
The Deutschlandstipendium Program, also known as the German Public-Private Scholarship, is funded jointly by the federal government and private sponsors. It is a merit-based scholarship that supports high-achieving and committed students of all nationalities enrolled at participating German universities. The scholarship amount is €300 per month, with half provided by the federal government and half by private sponsors.
German universities are responsible for processing applications and selecting recipients. You can check with your chosen university to see whether it offers this scholarship and what application process applies. The required documents and submission dates depend on your university. Applicants usually need to present academic records and may also include social involvement and personal achievements.
9. Helmut-Schmidt Programme (Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance)
The DAAD Helmut Schmidt Master’s Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance Program is one of the best government scholarship opportunities for international students in Germany. This program is focused on graduates from developing and emerging countries who want to qualify as future leaders in fields such as social and political science, law, economics, public policy, and administration.
DAAD scholarship holders are exempt from paying tuition fees and receive a monthly scholarship of currently €992. The scholarship also includes contributions toward health insurance in Germany, an appropriate travel allowance, a study and research subsidy, and, where applicable, rent subsidies or allowances for accompanying spouses and children. Applications are submitted directly to the participating Master’s courses listed by DAAD, and selection is made through the program’s official process.
Here is what DAAD Public Policy and Good Governance (Helmut Schmidt) Scholars Say:
“This scholarship covered my full tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs over the course of my program. The monthly stipend is 992 Euros.”
Hajrah
“The Helmut Schmidt Scholarship is highly competitive and aims to support future leaders in governance and public policy, which aligns closely with my career aspirations.”
Hajrah
“At the time of my application to the DAAD Helmut Schmidt Scholarship Program, the process did not require direct applications to individual universities. Instead, applicants were asked to indicate their top three preferred master’s programs from an approved list, and the final selection was made jointly by DAAD and the respective university admissions committees based on the overall strength and suitability of each applicant, demonstrated through the submitted application.”
Hamza Ijaz
10. DAAD Scholarships
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Up to full funding, depending on the program
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, Ph.D.
- Meet the DAAD Scholars: Explore scholarship journeys, including Bharath Kumar from India and Grace Achieng Ochieng from Kenya
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a wide range of scholarship opportunities to foreign students, graduates, doctoral candidates, and researchers who want to study or conduct research in Germany. Many DAAD programs are connected to specific academic levels, countries of origin, subjects, or professional experience requirements.
The value of DAAD scholarships varies by program. For example, DAAD’s Development-Related Postgraduate Courses program provides monthly payments of €992 for graduates and €1,400 for doctoral candidates beginning in February 2026, along with payments toward health, accident, and personal liability insurance and a travel allowance when these costs are not covered by another source.
Here is what DAAD Scholarship Scholars Say:
“The scholarship provides a year-long fellowship of 1300 Euros, a research allowance of 460 Euros, and a travel allowance of 1425 Euros to carry forward scientific exploration at German universities and research institutes.”
Subhadip Saha
“The DAAD Scholarship evaluates applicants in two stages: the document review and the interview.”
Nisa Narimanova
“After an interview, a supervisor agreed to host me, which allowed me to proceed with my DAAD scholarship application, as a confirmed host institution was a key requirement.”
Grace Achieng Ochieng
“I would also recommend practicing mock interviews. They can help you clarify your thoughts and confidently articulate your goals.”
Amit Srivastava
Best University Scholarships in Germany
11. TUM – Scholarships for International Students
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
The Technical University of Munich offers scholarships for international students funded through budget resources from the Bavarian government. The scholarship is a one-time financial aid award of €500 to €1,800 per semester, and students may reapply each semester.
To start your application for these scholarships in Germany, complete the online form on the university’s website and prepare the required documents. Documents should be submitted in German or English. The required documents may include a motivational letter, current transcript or grade report, proof of income, and other materials listed on the scholarship page. The complete list of documents can be found on the official scholarship link.
12. Heidelberg University – Amirana Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Medicine and Dentistry degrees
The Amirana Scholarship at Heidelberg University provides financial assistance to medical and dental students from countries in the Global South who are in financial need or require special support during the final phase of their studies. The scholarship aims to support future doctors and dental professionals at Heidelberg University.
If your country and study status meet the requirements, you can apply for the scholarship by preparing the required supporting documents and application form. The official page should be checked for the current application process, deadlines, and document list.
13. RWTH – Student Assistantships
The RWTH Aachen University offers student and graduate assistantship opportunities that allow students to gain hands-on academic or research experience while earning income. These are paid positions rather than traditional scholarships, and the amount paid depends on the position, contract, and number of hours worked. Student assistantships can help cover part of a student’s living expenses.
Students need to check the RWTH Job Portal or faculty postings to search for available jobs and review eligibility requirements. Student assistants at RWTH may work up to 19 hours per week throughout the year.
Here is what Research Assistantship Scholars Say:
“As a PhD student employed as a research assistant, I had a work contract that covered my living expenses.”
Mina Farajiamiri
“RWTH Aachen University offers programs taught in English at the doctoral level. This was an important factor for me, as it allowed me to fully focus on research without needing to reach a C1/B2 level in German before starting.”
Mina Farajiamiri
“My PhD at RWTH Aachen has given me access to cutting-edge research facilities and the chance to work on large-scale interdisciplinary projects like the Fuel Science Center (a DFG cluster of excellence).”
Mina Farajiamiri
14. LMU – SIST LMU Study Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial funding of up to €650 per month for up to 10 months
- Eligible Degree/s: Full-time degree students and doctoral students at LMU
The Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich offers the SIST LMU Study Scholarship to international students and doctoral students enrolled in regular full-time study programs at LMU. The scholarship is funded by the Federal State of Bavaria and is administered through LMU’s International Office.
To be eligible for this German scholarship, applicants generally need strong academic records and must show financial need. All application forms and required documents must be submitted electronically, so make sure all documents are complete. Incomplete applications may be rejected. After the evaluation process, the university’s selection committee chooses successful applicants, who are then notified of the result.
15. Ulm University – STIBET Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: International students and doctoral students nearing degree completion
Established in 1967, Ulm University educates around 10,000 students. This public university in Germany is highly recognized for its focus on medicine and STEM subjects, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. It also has a strong reputation for research and knowledge transfer.
To support international students, Ulm University offers the STIBET Scholarship for Finishing a University Degree to international students and doctoral candidates who have registered their thesis or are nearing graduation. Applicants must be pursuing their studies successfully and experiencing financial stress. Grants can be awarded for up to six months and, in exceptional cases, up to twelve months. Grants are awarded for at least €250 per month and are funded by DAAD with funds from the German Federal Foreign Office.
The STIBET Scholarship restricts applicants who are already receiving funding from domestic or foreign agencies for the same purpose. Employees of the state of Baden-Württemberg, including scientific assistants, student assistants, and tutors, cannot receive the scholarship during their employment.
16. Heidelberg University – Hans-Peter Wild Talent Scholarships
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s
Heidelberg University is one of Germany’s oldest and most prestigious universities, located in Heidelberg. The institution was founded in 1386 and is the oldest university in present-day Germany. It offers a broad spectrum of more than 190 fields of study across the humanities, law, social sciences, natural sciences, life sciences, and medicine.
The university is offering Hans-Peter Wild Talent Scholarships for highly gifted students from Germany and abroad. The scholarship provides €1,000 per month and is awarded to students pursuing or planning to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in MINT fields, which include mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology.
Since the university requires an online application for these awards, applicants should prepare the documents beforehand. Applicants should check the official application page for the current list of required documents, deadlines, and eligibility details. It is highly encouraged that applicants complete their forms and documents early to avoid delays.
17. University of Hamburg – Merit Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
The University of Hamburg is a public research university in Hamburg, Germany. It was founded on March 28, 1919, when the Hamburg Parliament passed a resolution to establish a university. The university states that it was the first democratically founded university in Germany.
The university offers merit scholarships to outstanding international students and doctoral researchers. The maximum monthly funding amount is €992. Merit scholarships are awarded for two semesters, totaling 12 months, and recipients may reapply. The maximum funding duration is two years. Applicants can apply online, but before proceeding, they should make sure they meet the eligibility criteria. Required documents include the application form and supporting documents such as a CV, letter of motivation, proof of social or intercultural activities, and evaluations from professors.
18. Leibniz University Hannover – Degree Completion Grant
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D., depending on degree completion status and eligibility requirements
Leibniz University Hannover is an institution in Lower Saxony, Germany. It was founded in 1831 as the Higher Industrial School and later developed into a technical university before receiving its current name in 2006.
The Degree Completion Grant aims to support international students during the degree completion phase. The grant is awarded to eligible foreign students of Leibniz University Hannover who are demonstrably registered for their final examination or will submit registration within one month of the application deadline. Only complete applications are accepted, so applicants should carefully check the current document requirements on the official page.
19. Ruhr-University Bochum Scholarships
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: Partial Funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.
Ruhr-University Bochum is a public research university in Bochum, Germany. The state parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia decided in 1961 that the first new university in the Federal Republic of Germany would be located in Bochum; the university was inaugurated in 1965, and lectures began later that year. It is one of Germany’s large universities and offers a wide range of courses and programs across many academic fields.
RUB offers financial support to international students. International students can apply for a scholarship from the third semester onward. Students who do not receive BAföG can receive €500 per month for six months, while students who receive BAföG can receive €300 per month for six months. Applicants should review the official scholarship page carefully because income limits and eligibility requirements apply. You need to apply online if you want to apply for this scholarship. Please note that students can apply for only one scholarship, so review which scholarship best matches your academic and financial needs.
20. University of Erlangen-Nuremberg Scholarship
- Scholarship Page
- Scholarship Type: One-time partial funding
- Eligible Degree/s: Master’s, State Examination degrees
The University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, officially Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, is a public university located in Germany. It was founded in 1743 and is one of the country’s large research universities.
This scholarship is intended for international students who are about to graduate. Students in Master’s and State Examination programs can apply. The final semester scholarship is usually paid in one transaction and amounts to €1,000 in total. To be eligible, applicants must be international students without German citizenship or permanent residence, must be actively enrolled at FAU, must have good or very good grades, and must demonstrate financial need. Only students with a monthly income of under €992 are entitled to apply. Bachelor’s students, exchange students, and students enrolled in one-year orientation, pre-master, or postgraduate programs are not eligible.
You also need to submit an online application form and supporting documents, including an up-to-date transcript, a current certificate of enrollment, a CV, and a reference letter from a full FAU professor. Always check the current deadline and document requirements on the official scholarship page before applying.
Germany is generous in providing financial support to international students, especially those who demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need. From government scholarships and external scholarships to university-based funding, students have many options for financial aid. Be sure to research each scholarship program before submitting your application. Make a list of the scholarships that match your degree level, subject, nationality, language skills, and financial needs, and then apply to the programs that fit you best.
Hopefully, this article will help you find the right scholarship. If you want to learn more about Germany, check the Study in Germany guide and Available Programs in Germany for International Students!
