Syrian Dentist Wins DAAD and Hans Riegel Scholarships to Study Global Health at University of Bonn

My name is Leen Alsabbagh, and I’m originally from Syria. I studied Dentistry at Damascus University, where I was also pursuing a Master’s degree in Pediatric Dentistry. During that time, I met my husband, who was preparing to continue his education in Germany through the DAAD scholarship. He introduced me to the field of Global Health, which immediately sparked my curiosity. As I started reading more about it, I became deeply inspired by its potential to address complex health challenges at a systemic level—something I had witnessed firsthand during the Syrian conflict. That motivated me to prepare my documents and apply for a scholarship to pursue an MSc in Global Health at Bonn University.

DAAD Scholarship Details

I was awarded the DAAD scholarship – Master Studies for All Academic Disciplines, which covers living expenses and travel costs.

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

Yes, I also received a second scholarship from the Hans Riegel Stiftung, which covers my tuition fees. After securing the DAAD scholarship, I contacted the coordinator of my desired MSc program at Bonn University and inquired about possible funding options for tuition. They informed me about this opportunity, and I was fortunate to be eligible and selected.

Educational Background

With a background in dentistry, I was part of the Syrian health system and personally witnessed its deterioration and fragmentation during the war. This experience gave me a strong desire to contribute to the rebuilding and strengthening of health systems. When I learned about the MSc in Global Health, I realized it was the perfect opportunity to shift my contribution from the clinical (micro) level to the health systems (macro) level, where I could potentially make a broader and more sustainable impact.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to German Institutions?

My husband played a significant role in supporting me during the application process. Since my English skills were already strong, I focused on practicing for the TOEFL exam format. I worked with a tutor who helped me refine my test-taking strategies, and I scored 102/120 on the TOEFL iBT.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to These Sch0larships?

To prepare for the scholarship applications, I first gathered all the necessary information about the programs I was interested in and reached out to previous scholarship recipients, including my husband, to gain insight and practical advice. Their guidance helped me understand how to tailor my application to meet the expectations of the selection committees.

I also began collecting all the required documents, which was a time-consuming process, especially given the administrative challenges in Syria. To strengthen my application and demonstrate genuine interest in the field, I took a short course in public health, which helped me better understand the field and align my academic background and career goals with the objectives of the scholarship.

Applying from Syria presented serious obstacles due to international sanctions. Many official websites were inaccessible without a VPN, and I often faced technical disruptions and sudden blocks that made the application process highly stressful and unpredictable. Despite these difficulties, I remained persistent, sought help when needed, and ultimately managed to complete my application successfully.

How was Your Experience at the University of Bonn?

The experience has been truly enriching, both academically and personally. I come from a country that has endured more than 14 years of war, with limited exposure to international perspectives. Studying in a diverse, multicultural environment alongside colleagues from all over the world has significantly broadened my horizons. The faculty and students were incredibly welcoming and supportive from day one—I never felt like a stranger.

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

Academically, I rate the institution very highly. The curriculum is comprehensive, the teaching staff are experts in their fields, and we are encouraged to think critically and work collaboratively. The program provides a perfect balance between theoretical foundations and real-world applications.

How Does the University of Bonn Support International Students?

Yes, the institution is very supportive of international students. In fact, the majority of the students in my program come from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which creates a diverse and inclusive environment.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or in German?

Yes, all of our classes are conducted in English.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing German?

No, academically there is no issue. All academic materials are in English, and everyone, including professors and staff, speaks English fluently. I haven’t faced any language-related obstacles.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

I believe the key to a strong application is having a clear, well-aligned narrative. My application reflected my past experiences, my motivations, and how they connected to the goals of the scholarship and the program. Many applicants submit fragmented documents that don’t reflect a consistent story or objective—clarity and cohesion make a real difference.

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

If I could do it again, I would plan everything earlier and allow more buffer time for unexpected issues. For example, my TOEFL Home Edition exam was canceled twice without explanation, reportedly due to security issues. In the end, I had to travel to another country to take the test. I nearly missed the scholarship deadline because of this. It taught me the importance of being prepared for delays.

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

Learn from others who’ve been through the process. Read successful applications, and take the time to understand what the scholarship committee is looking for. Then, align your application as closely as possible with those expectations, while staying true to your unique background and motivations. Preparation, persistence, and consistency are key