If you are a refugee student looking to pursue higher education in Germany, you may be eligible for fully funded scholarships offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). The DAAD provides financial support to refugee students to help them achieve their academic goals. These scholarships cover various expenses, including tuition fees, living costs, and travel expenses, allowing students to focus on their studies without financial burdens.
Who Qualifies
To be eligible for these scholarships, you must hold a valid visa or residence permit in one of the following categories:
* Subsidiary protection
* Refugee status
* Temporary residence permit
* Permanent residence permit
* Humanitarian residence permit
* Other visa categories may also be considered on a case-by-case basis
Available Scholarships
The DAAD offers several scholarship programs for refugee students in Germany. Here are five examples of fully funded scholarships:
1. Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
The EPOS scholarship covers €750 per month for living expenses, €1,500 for travel expenses, and tuition fees. To be eligible, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have at least two years of work experience. The application deadline is typically in July or August, and you can find more information on the official DAAD website.
2. Helmut-Schmidt-Programme (HSP)
The HSP scholarship covers €750 per month for living expenses, €1,500 for travel expenses, and tuition fees. To be eligible, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have a strong academic record. The application deadline is typically in July or August, and you can find more information on the official DAAD website.
3. Master's Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance (PPGG)
The PPGG scholarship covers €750 per month for living expenses, €1,500 for travel expenses, and tuition fees. To be eligible, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have a strong academic record. The application deadline is typically in July or August, and you can find more information on the official DAAD website.
4. DAAD Scholarship for Refugee Students
The DAAD Scholarship for Refugee Students covers €600 per month for living expenses and tuition fees. To be eligible, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have a strong academic record. The application deadline is typically in December or January, and you can find more information on the official DAAD website.
5. Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship covers €750 per month for living expenses, €1,500 for travel expenses, and tuition fees. To be eligible, you must hold a bachelor's degree and have a strong academic record. The application deadline is typically in December or January, and you can find more information on the official website.
Application Steps
To apply for these scholarships, follow these steps:
- Check the eligibility criteria and ensure you meet the requirements.
- Choose the scholarship program that best fits your academic goals and interests.
- Review the application deadline and timeline.
- Prepare the required documents, including academic transcripts, language proficiency certificates, and a motivation letter.
- Submit your application through the official website or by mail.
- Wait for the review process and receive notification of the outcome.
- If selected, confirm your acceptance and review the terms and conditions of the scholarship.
- Begin your studies and enjoy the benefits of the scholarship
Documents Checklist
To apply for these scholarships, you will need to submit the following documents:
* Academic transcripts and diplomas
* Language proficiency certificates (e.g., English or German)
* Motivation letter
* Letter of recommendation from a professor or academic supervisor
* Proof of financial need
* Copy of your visa or residence permit
* Passport photo
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any specific language requirements for the scholarships?
The DAAD typically requires English language proficiency, but some programs may also require German language skills. You can check the specific requirements for each scholarship on the official DAAD website.
Can I apply for multiple scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships, but you can only receive one award. Make sure to review the eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.
What are the living costs in Germany for international students?
The living costs in Germany vary depending on the location, but a student can expect to pay around €600-€800 per month for accommodation, food, and other expenses.
Can I work part-time while studying in Germany with a scholarship?
Yes, international students with a scholarship can work part-time for up to 20 hours per week. However, you should check with your scholarship provider and the immigration authorities to ensure you comply with the regulations.
How long does it take to process the scholarship application?
The review process can take several months, and you should apply well in advance of the deadline to ensure your application is processed on time.
What are the academic requirements for the scholarships?
The academic requirements vary depending on the scholarship, but most programs require a strong academic record and a bachelor's degree.
Can I bring my family with me to Germany if I receive a scholarship?
The DAAD typically does not provide financial support for family members, and you should review the regulations and requirements for family reunification in Germany.
Are there any specific requirements for the motivation letter?
The motivation letter should be well-written and concise, explaining your academic goals, interests, and motivations for applying for the scholarship.
Additional Resources
For more information on higher education in Germany and available scholarships, visit the official government website or the DAAD website.
To learn more about opportunities for refugee students and migrant scholars, visit our blog at https://migrantscholar.com/blog
Related Guides
- Germany scholarships for migrants
- DAAD scholarships
- scholarships for refugees
- fully funded scholarships
- scholarship deadlines 2026
- scholarship glossary
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Last Reviewed: 26 July 2026