Last updated: March 21, 2026
DAAD Eligibility & Requirements 2026
Quick Eligibility Checker
Answer 4 quick questions to see if you qualify.
Do you have at least a Bachelor's degree (or will you before the scholarship starts)?
Still in final year? That counts if you can show proof of expected graduation.
Was your most recent degree awarded within the last 6 years?
For the 2026 intake, that means graduated October 2019 or later.
Have you been living in Germany for less than 15 months?
Short visits and conferences don't count. Enrollment or employment does.
Do you have a valid language certificate (less than 2 years old)?
IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat, or onSET.
You meet the basic eligibility criteria!
You pass all four checks. Next step: review program-specific requirements below.
Start Your ApplicationYou may not be eligible right now
One or more criteria aren't met. Check alternatives or see if your specific program has exceptions.
Explore AlternativesAcademic Requirements
What selection committees actually look at.
Your GPA
No official minimum, but successful applicants are typically in the top 10-20% of their class. DAAD compares grades against your country's national average.
Does Your Degree Match?
Your previous degree should relate to what you want to study in Germany. Doesn't need to be exact, but there should be a clear connection. Switching fields? Your motivation letter must explain why the change makes sense.
Work Experience (Some Programs)
EPOS and Helmut Schmidt require at least 2 years of professional experience after your Bachelor's. Internships during your degree don't count.
Language Requirements
Certificate must be less than 2 years old. No exceptions.
Critical: Your certificate must be less than 2 years old on the application deadline. Perfect IELTS from 3 years ago? Expired. Plan your test so the certificate is still valid when you submit.
Can Your Country Apply?
Almost certainly yes. DAAD is open to virtually every country. Some programs specifically target developing countries (OECD DAC list), giving those applicants access to more options like EPOS.
Is There an Age Limit?
No maximum age. They use the 6-year degree rule instead. A 35-year-old who finished a Master's four years ago qualifies just like a 24-year-old fresh grad. For EPOS, being older can actually help.
Program-Specific Requirements
Select a program to see its specific requirements.
Bachelor's
Not required
German or English
Degree < 6 years old
Bachelor's
2 years minimum
English (mostly)
Developing countries only
Bachelor's
2 years minimum
English
Public policy focus
Master's
Not required
German or English
Supervisor letter needed
Doctorate
Not required
German or English
Research proposal required
Doctorate
Not required
English
18-month split stay
Always double-check on the official DAAD website. Requirements can change between cycles.