How a Nigerian Scholar Secured the DAAD-EPOS Full Scholarship to Study Tropical Hydrogeology at TU Darmstadt

My name is Joshua Odeyemi from Nigeria. I am a passionate geoscientist with professional experience in the fields of hydrogeology, environmental and engineering geosciences in both the private and public sectors. I hold a Bachelor of Technology degree in Applied Geology from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. Aside from my strong academic and professional background in Hydrogeology, my passion for proffering solutions to various water challenges in my home country, while contributing my part to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, spurred my interest to pursue further education in the field.

DAAD-EPOS Scholarship Details

I am the recipient of the DAAD-EPOS Scholarship (2024-2026) studying for the Master of Science in Tropical Hydrogeology and Environmental Engineering (MSc. TropHEE) at the Institute of Applied Geosciences of Technische Universität Darmstadt, Germany. The scholarship amount is approximately 12,000 Euros per year, alongside some other benefits.

Luckily, I was also awarded the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship for the Groundwater and Global Change (GroundwatCH) program (2024-2026), but I decided to go for the DAAD scholarship.

Educational Background

I graduated among the top 5% of my class with a grade of 4.32 on a 5-point scale (86.4%). Through this education, I gained foundational knowledge of a broad range of field-based concepts which cut across Hydrogeology and Hydrology, Environmental Geology, Geological and Geophysical Field Mapping, Engineering Geology, Geophysics, Analytical Chemistry, and Geochemistry, and had excellent grades in them. I was also involved in numerous research initiatives, which I believe had prepared me to apply for this particular field.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Technical University of Darmstadt?

Well, for someone like me who has been applying for scholarships for more than 6 years now, I already have most of my application documents ready. I only did more research and made a few adjustments to my letter of motivation and CV. Although I had written the TOEFL twice and the GRE once, they were not needed per se for my DAAD and Erasmus scholarship application. I only added them to boost my chances for selection, but I am not so sure if they did.

How Did You Prepare to Apply for the Scholarship?

As the phrase goes, 'Proper (Early) Preparation prevents poor performance'. Therefore, I made sure I was properly prepared to apply for the scholarships.  The first thing I did was find a mentor (a current scholarship holder) in the program(s) to assist and guide me through the application process and give me some advice on how to get the scholarship - I believe this was quite beneficial.  I ensured that I prepared a convincing letter of motivation/person statement and had excellent letters of recommendation from my company and previous professors.  I also took some online classes, went to several conferences, volunteered more, and did other things to improve my application's competitiveness.

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

So far, my experience at the institution has been awesome.

How Do You Rate the Technical University of Darmstadt Academically and Why?

I give the university a 10/10 for academic quality.  In addition to academic knowledge, the institution adds more practical experience to the learning process.

How Does the Technical University of Darmstadt Support International Students?

The institution supports international students through its International Office, offering help with visas, housing, and orientation. Programs like TUtor International provide guidance, social activities, and integration support. Language courses and academic workshops assist with German skills and study techniques. The Career Service helps with internships, job applications, and navigating Germany’s work culture. Students also benefit from mental health services, intercultural events, and access to international student organizations. Housing assistance and buddy programs further ease the transition.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or German? 

The courses are taught in English.  To fit into the new environment, you will need to know German.  However, the DAAD supported all scholars to take a free two-month language course upon arrival in Germany.  There are also free language-learning classes available at universities.

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

No, if the courses are taught purely in English.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

First, I give glory to God.  Also, I made sure that my motivation letter was engaging and that my CV listed all of my accomplishments, skill sets, and work experience in both the public and private sectors, among other things.  My referees also provided excellent letters of recommendation for me.

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

I honestly don’t know because I really gave my best into the application like it was my last application ever.

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

• Start early - Research programs and deadlines well in advance. If possible, get a mentor to guide you in your application process.
• Tailor your application - Modify your motivation letter to align with the scholarship’s goals.
• Show impact - Highlight how your past work and future plans contribute to society or your home country.
• Strong academics and references - Have competitive grades and secure solid recommendation letters from your employers/past lecturers.
• Clarity and sincerity - Be honest, clear, and passionate about your career and professional goals.

Above all, understand that you need to be hungry and ready for success.