DAAD Alternatives 2027
DAAD is not the only option. Here are other awards worth applying to in the same cycle to fund your studies in Germany.
ScholarshipUnion Editorial
2 min read
Updated Oct 5, 2026
Other Ways to Fund Your Studies in Germany
DAAD is not the only option. Several other scholarships can fund your studies in Germany, and it makes sense to apply to more than one in the same cycle. Here's how they compare at a glance.
| Scholarship | Stipend | Deadline / note |
|---|---|---|
| Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus | EUR 800–1,400/mo | Varies by program |
| Studienstiftung | Up to EUR 1,155/mo | Must be enrolled in Germany |
| Konrad Adenauer | Up to EUR 992/mo | Jul 15 (in Germany) |
| Heinrich Böll | EUR 992/mo | Mar 1 / Sep 1 |
| University-specific | Varies widely | Check each university |
| DAFI / UNHCR | Full funding for refugees | Study in your host country, not Germany |
Erasmus+ / Erasmus Mundus
These are EU-funded exchange and joint degree programs, with a monthly grant of EUR 800–1,400. Some joint Master's programs are fully funded.
Apply through the specific Erasmus Mundus consortium, not through DAAD.
Studienstiftung des Deutschen Volkes
Germany's largest scholarship foundation. It accepts international students who are already enrolled at a German university, and puts a strong emphasis on academic excellence and community engagement. Everyone gets EUR 300 a month for study costs, plus up to EUR 855 a month depending on family income.
Konrad Adenauer Foundation
A political foundation linked to the CDU that funds international students in Germany. It places an emphasis on social and political engagement, and the scholarship includes seminars and networking events. Master’s students get up to EUR 992 a month; you need German at B2 before your studies start. The 15 July deadline is for applicants in Germany; some KAS offices abroad also take applications.
Heinrich Böll Foundation
Linked to the Green Party, with a strong focus on sustainability, democracy, and human rights. It funds Master's and PhD students from all countries.
University-Specific Scholarships
Many German universities offer their own scholarships: TU Munich, LMU, Heidelberg, FU Berlin, and others. Check each university's international office.
These are often less competitive than DAAD. Funding varies widely, so check each university.
DAFI / UNHCR Scholarship
Specifically for refugees, run by UNHCR and funded mainly by the German government. It supports refugees studying in their country of asylum, not in Germany, so it is not a route to a German degree. Refugees already in Germany should look at DAAD’s own programmes and the foundations above.