DAAD FAQ 2027

Not for that programme. DAAD does not fund a Master’s that has already begun in Germany, and only funds programmes starting in the winter semester of 2027/28. A study year in Germany within a Master’s at your home university can be funded. The STEM programme excludes anyone who already holds a Master’s.

There’s no official minimum. Our estimate is that winners are usually in the top 10-20% of their class. Strong professional experience and a strong motivation letter can help, but grades do the heavy lifting.

Your most recent degree should not be more than 6 years old at the deadline. For a 16 November 2026 deadline (2027/28 intake), that means graduated no earlier than 16 November 2020. Earlier country deadlines move this cut-off back slightly. Childcare, illness, disability or military service can justify an older degree.

It depends on the program. Many German Master’s programs are taught in English; for those you need English at the level your university sets (often around IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80+). German-taught programs usually ask for B2/C1, DSH or TestDaF.

You normally apply from your country of origin, which is usually where you have spent most of your life. Applying from your current country of residence is possible only under certain conditions. Check DAAD’s important information for scholarship applicants (section A.5).

Only with DAAD’s approval, and your supervisor or course coordinator must agree too. Earnings above EUR 603 gross a month are deducted from your stipend. Student residence rules allow 140 full or 280 half days of work a year. HiWi (student assistant) jobs are a common choice.

Generally no. Your award is only valid for the host university named in your application. Ask DAAD before any change; switching without approval puts your scholarship at risk.

The 25% rule covers study periods or placements abroad that are part of your degree. They are usually funded only if essential, not in your home country, and no longer than a quarter of the scholarship period (up to 50% for joint and double degrees). For private trips, check the conditions in your award letter.

Most German public universities charge no tuition, and DAAD does not pay tuition fees. Exceptions: Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students EUR 1,500 a semester, and TUM charges EUR 4,000–6,000 a semester for many Master’s programmes. You will also pay a semester fee (roughly EUR 100-350), which often includes a transit pass.

No. If you do not have it when you apply, you must submit it before funding begins. Your award is only valid if you are admitted to the host university named in your application.

Yes. You can apply again in a later cycle if you still meet the rules, such as the 6-year degree limit. Use the time to improve your motivation letter, gain experience, or retake a language test.

It matches the standard length of your program. Master’s: 10-24 months, with a progress check after the first year. Doctoral Programmes in Germany: up to 4 years, awarded for 3 at first. Research stays: 2-12 months for doctoral candidates. The exact duration is in your award letter.