How a Nigerian Environmental Risk Specialist Won the Fully Funded DAAD EPOS Scholarship for Her M.Sc. in Environmental Risk and Human Security at the University of Bonn and UNU‑EHS

My name is Abeeb Ajagbe, and I'm originally from Nigeria. My professional background centers on climate change adaptation and disaster risk management, areas that have become increasingly critical in our rapidly changing world.

I completed my bachelor's degree in Geography at Obafemi Awolowo University, which provided me with a solid foundation in understanding environmental processes and human-environment interactions. I was fortunate to receive the DAAD EPOS scholarship, which enabled me to pursue my master's degree in Geography of Environmental Risk and Human Security here at the University of Bonn and UNU-EHS.

My decision to further my studies in this specific program was driven by several factors. First, after reviewing the curriculum, I became convinced that this program represents exactly the right step forward in my academic and professional journey. The interdisciplinary approach, combining geographical analysis with risk assessment and human security perspectives, aligns perfectly with my career goals in climate adaptation and disaster risk management.

Additionally, I had the advantage of speaking with a former classmate who was already enrolled in this program. His enthusiastic recommendations about the quality of education, the faculty expertise, and the practical applications of the coursework further reinforced my conviction that this was the ideal program for me. His insights into how the program prepares students for real-world challenges in environmental risk management were particularly compelling.

This combination of academic excellence and practical relevance, especially given my background and the pressing environmental challenges facing Nigeria and the broader global community, made this program an obvious choice for advancing my expertise in this vital field.

DAAD EPOS Scholarship Details

I was awarded the DAAD EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) scholarship, which is a comprehensive, fully-funded scholarship program offered by the German Academic Exchange Service. This prestigious scholarship enabled me to pursue my Master's degree in Geography of Environmental Risk and Human Security at the University of Bonn in partnership with UNU-EHS (United Nations University Institute for Environment and Human Security).

The scholarship provides €934 per month as a living stipend specifically for Master's students, which adequately covers my monthly expenses here in Germany. However, the financial support extends far beyond just the monthly allowance. The scholarship includes numerous additional benefits that make it truly comprehensive.

The program covered my travel expenses through a flat-rate travel allowance and provided round-trip airfare tickets from Nigeria to Germany. For healthcare, I receive complete coverage including medical insurance, accident insurance, and civil liability insurance, ensuring I'm fully protected during my studies.

For academic purposes, the scholarship allocates €460 per year specifically for study and research expenses, which helps cover books, materials, and research-related costs. Additionally, I receive a monthly rent subsidy that significantly helps with accommodation costs, and there's provision for family support under certain circumstances.

One particularly valuable component was the intensive German language course lasting 2 months, which helped me prepare for life and studies in Germany. This language preparation was crucial for both academic success and daily integration into German society.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships? 

Prior to winning the DAAD EPOS scholarship, I was also offered a Graduate Assistantship position at East Carolina University in the United States. This was a comprehensive funding package that included full tuition coverage along with a monthly stipend totaling $12,000 USD for a 9-month academic year.

The Graduate Assistantship at East Carolina University was quite attractive as it would have provided both financial support and valuable teaching or research experience as part of the assistantship responsibilities. The combination of having tuition fully covered plus the substantial monthly stipend would have made pursuing graduate studies in the US financially viable.

However, due to certain circumstances that arose, I had to make the difficult decision to forgo this opportunity at East Carolina University. While it was challenging to turn down such a generous offer, the timing and other factors ultimately led me to accept the DAAD EPOS scholarship for my studies here at the University of Bonn instead.

Educational Background

My educational background consists of a Bachelor's degree in Geography from Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria, where I graduated with a Second Class Upper Division. This translates to a 3.3/4.0 CGPA according to WES evaluation.

This geography degree directly prepared me for environmental risk and human security programs because geography is inherently interdisciplinary. My coursework covered both physical geography - including GIS, climatology, hydrology, and environmental processes and human geography elements like population dynamics and socio-economic systems.

Most schools I applied to had major components that aligned with my undergraduate studies. The broad nature of geography meant I already had the scientific background for climate change adaptation and the social science foundation for understanding human vulnerabilities and disaster risk management.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Bonn?

I began preparing my application documents approximately 6 months before the scholarship deadline, which gave me ample time to create a comprehensive and well-prepared application. This early start was crucial for ensuring I didn't rush through any component of the application process.

My preparation strategy involved thoroughly researching the program through the university website, where all the detailed requirements and program information are clearly outlined. The call for applications is always released with specific guidelines, deadlines, and criteria, so I made sure to study these carefully.

Additionally, I reached out to previous scholarship recipients who had been awarded the DAAD EPOS scholarship. Speaking with these individuals provided invaluable insights into the application process, what the selection committee looks for, and practical tips for strengthening my application. Their firsthand experience helped me understand both the academic and personal qualities that successful candidates typically demonstrate.

This combination of early preparation, thorough research of official program information, and networking with past recipients allowed me to work systematically on my application. I was able to refine my personal statement, ensure all documents met requirements, and present a compelling case for why I was a suitable candidate for the program.

I dedicated a lesson time of 2 hours per day for 3 months to prepare for my IELTS and EXAM, and did the same for GRE

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the DAAD Scholarship?

Regarding standardized tests, my situation was somewhat unique. Since I studied at a Nigerian university where English is the official language of instruction, I technically didn't need to submit IELTS results for the DAAD EPOS scholarship. However, I decided to take the IELTS anyway as an additional credential. My reasoning was that you never know what might give you an edge in the selection process - having that extra qualification could be the deciding factor that sets your application apart from other candidates.

I also took the GRE at some point during my preparation, even though it wasn't specifically required for the DAAD EPOS scholarship I ultimately won. I had initially prepared it for other applications where it might be needed.

How Is (was) Your Experience at the University of Bonn?

My experience at the University of Bonn has been fantastic so far, and I honestly can't complain. One of the most remarkable aspects of this program is the opportunity to learn directly from top scholars in the field

How Do You Rate the University of Bonn Academically and Why?

The academic environment is stimulating and collaborative, with fellow students bringing diverse perspectives from around the world. This international dimension adds tremendous value to classroom discussions and group projects, as we're all approaching environmental challenges from different regional and cultural contexts.

How Does the University of Bonn Support International Students?

The institution provides exceptional support for international students, and I would honestly rate their support system 100%. What makes their approach particularly effective is the dedicated education unit within my master's program that is available at all times to listen to students' concerns and address any challenges we might face.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German? 

The language of communication is the English language, although there are some courses in German if you can speak German, but generally it is in English

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing German?

No, I don’t think so

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I can't really pinpoint exactly what made my application stand out from the others, as the selection process involves many factors that applicants don't always see. What I can say is that I focused on crafting a strong motivation letter that I tailored specifically towards addressing a problem in my country, Nigeria.

Beyond that, I simply hoped for the best. The competition for these scholarships is intense, and sometimes it comes down to how well your profile matches what the selection committee is looking for at that particular time. I believe being genuine in my application, starting early, and ensuring all my documents were well-prepared contributed to my success, but I can't claim to know the exact formula that made the difference.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

Honestly, if I were going through the process again, I think I wouldn't change anything. I believe I ticked all the boxes during my application process.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

My advice to those looking to apply for similar scholarships is straightforward: scholarship application is a process that requires time and patience to gather all the required documentation.

First and most importantly, read the requirements very carefully. Don't just skim through them - study every detail to ensure you understand exactly what's needed. Each scholarship has specific criteria and documentation requirements that must be met precisely.

Start early - I cannot emphasize this enough. Give yourself at least 6 months before the deadline to prepare your application thoroughly. This timeframe allows you to gather documents, write and revise your essays, and handle any unexpected issues that might arise.

Reach out to people who have previously won the scholarship. We have many scholarship recipients on LinkedIn who are usually willing to help. Don't hesitate to connect with them and ask if they can review your application and provide feedback. Their insights from going through the same process are invaluable, and most are happy to help fellow applicants.

Take their suggestions seriously and make necessary corrections to strengthen your application. Fresh eyes often catch things you might have missed or suggest improvements you hadn't considered.

Once you've done all of this - submitted your best possible application with all requirements met - pray to God and hope for the best. At that point, you've done everything within your control, and the rest is in the hands of the selection committee.