DAAD EPOS Scholarship in Germany 2026

DAAD EPOS Scholarship Program: An Opportunity for Professionals from Developing Countries to Pursue Postgraduate Studies in Germany 2026

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), through its EPOS program (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses), offers funding opportunities for postgraduate studies in Germany. This initiative aims to strengthen the skills of professionals from developing or emerging countries so that they can actively contribute to the sustainable progress of their nations. Beneficiaries have the opportunity to pursue a Master’s or Doctorate at a German university and acquire essential knowledge to fight poverty, improve access to education, and promote public health.

Program Objective

The EPOS program aims to enhance the training of qualified professionals in technological, economic, and social fields, thereby fostering sustainable development in developing countries. It offers graduates the opportunity to deepen their academic and professional skills and to put these achievements at the service of the social and economic progress of their home country.

Eligibility Criteria for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship

To apply, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Degree: Hold at least a Bachelor’s degree (equivalent to four years of study) in a relevant field.
• Experience: Provide proof of at least two years of professional experience related to development policy, acquired before submitting the application.
• Recency of degree: The first academic degree should generally not be older than six years at the time of application.
• Nationality: Must come from one of the countries declared eligible in the call for applications.
• Personal commitment: Candidates must also demonstrate a clear willingness to assume social and professional responsibilities and to actively contribute to positive transformations in their personal or professional environment.

Who Can Apply?

Graduates with at least two years of professional experience and originating from countries listed as eligible [see list here].

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship provides comprehensive support to recipients during their academic and personal stay in Germany, including:

• Monthly allowance: €992 for Master’s students, and €1,300 for doctoral candidates (increased to €1,400 as of February 2026).
• Insurance coverage: Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.

Additional Support:

• Contribution toward accommodation costs.
• Financial support for accompanying family members.
• Coverage of travel expenses, unless already funded by the home country or another organization.

Language Requirements

• Programs in German: Applicants must have at least a B1 level in German. When the program is taught in German, the scholarship includes a six-month intensive language course in Germany. Before starting the program, candidates must have passed the TestDaF (level 4) or DSH 2.

• Programs in English: Applicants must present a valid English proficiency certificate such as TOEFL or IELTS.

Required Application Documents

The application file must include the following:

• EPOS Application Form: Completed and signed.
• Curriculum Vitae: Detailing academic and professional background.
• Letter of Motivation: Clearly stating academic, professional, and personal reasons for applying. If applying for multiple programs, motivation must be explained separately for each.
• Letter of Recommendation: Issued by the current employer, on official letterhead.
• Employment Certificates: Proof of at least two years of professional experience after completing the first university degree.
• Language Certificates: Proof of English or German proficiency, depending on the program.
• Diplomas and Transcripts: Certified copies of university degrees and transcripts, with official translations in English or German if necessary.

Selection Procedure

The selection process takes place in several stages:

1. The complete application file must be submitted directly to the targeted Master’s or Doctoral program.

2. An evaluation committee reviews the applications and proposes a shortlist of candidates eligible for the DAAD scholarship.

3. Preselected candidates then receive an official invitation from DAAD to submit their application via the DAAD online portal.

4. At the end of the process, final results are communicated to successful applicants.

Application Process

The application process involves several steps:

1. Submit your application directly to the chosen programs (a maximum of three applications is allowed), clearly indicating the priority order of your choices.

2. Prepare all required documents (see list above).

3. Send these documents to the German university or institution offering the selected program.

4. If preselected for the scholarship, DAAD will provide the necessary instructions to submit your complete file via its online platform.

Click HERE to Apply (Official Website)

Application Deadlines

Deadlines vary depending on the selected program. It is therefore essential to carefully check the websites of the specific programs or the official scholarship brochure to know the exact dates.

Final Note

The DAAD scholarship for postgraduate studies in Germany is a valuable opportunity for graduates from developing countries who wish to deepen their expertise and actively participate in the sustainable development of their home country. To maximize your chances of success, make sure to thoroughly check the eligibility requirements, carefully prepare all required documents, and submit your application within the given deadlines.

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