Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for international Students 2025–2026

Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for international Students 2025–2026

Germany has become one of the most popular study destinations for international students because of its world-class universities, affordable living costs, and high-quality education system. Every year, hundreds of international students apply to German universities for undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs in fields such as engineering, medicine, business, social sciences, and IT. To make education more accessible, several fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students 2025–2026 are now available, covering tuition fees, monthly stipends, accommodation, health insurance, and travel costs.

Whether you want to pursue higher studies at top institutions like the Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, or RWTH Aachen, or enroll in specialized research programs, these scholarships provide financial support and open doors to international career opportunities. Many of these scholarships are offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), government organizations, and top universities themselves, ensuring that talented international students can achieve their academic goals without financial burden.

In this guide, you will find a complete list of the best scholarships in Germany for international students 2025–2026, along with details about benefits, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for international Students 2025–2026

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DAAD Scholarship 2025-2026 in Germany offers fully funded Master’s and PhD opportunities at top universities, covering tuition, stipend, travel, insurance, and more.

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Apply for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026 in Germany. This fully funded program supports international students pursuing Master’s and PhD degrees.

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The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship 2025-2026 in Germany offers fully funded support for undergraduate and postgraduate students with monthly stipends, health insurance, and allowances. Apply now to join 40 scholars committed to academic excellence and social democracy.

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Apply for the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS) PhD Scholarship 2025-2026 in Germany. This fully funded program offers €1,700 monthly, health insurance, and social benefits.

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Apply for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships in Germany with €1,350 monthly stipend, research allowance, and health care support. Open to international master’s and PhD students in all fields except medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.

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Apply for the Neufert-Foundation Scholarships in Germany to study a Master’s in Architecture, Landscaping, or Urban Development with full academic support. Open to international students beginning their Master’s program.

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Constructor University Scholarships in Germany offer fully funded support of up to €10,000 per year for international students in undergraduate and master’s programs. Apply now to study at Jacobs University with top-ranked English-taught programs in Data Engineering, Supply Chain Management, and other globally in-demand fields.

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Humboldt Research Fellowships 2025-2026 in Germany provide fully funded postdoctoral opportunities with €3,200 monthly, family support, and research funding.

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DAAD Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
DAAD Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded

DAAD Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is available to pursue masters or PhD at the top German Universities. DAAD scholarships cover monthly payments of 992 euros for graduates or 1,400 euros for doctoral candidates.

Well-trained experts, who are networked with international partners, play an important part in the sustainable development of their countries. They are the best guarantee for a better future with less poverty, more education, and health for all. With its development-oriented postgraduate study programs, the DAAD promotes the training of specialists from developed and newly industrialized countries.

The scholarships offer foreign graduates from developed and newly industrialized countries from all disciplines the chance to take a postgraduate or Master’s degree at a state or state-recognized German university, and in exceptional cases to take a doctoral degree, and to obtain a university qualification (Master’s/PhD) in Germany.

DAAD Scholarship 2026 Summary

  • Level of Study: Doctoral (PhD) / Masters

  • Institution: DAAD

  • Study in: Germany

  • Courses Offered:

    • Economic Sciences, Law

    • Agricultural and Forest Sciences

    • Art, Design

    • Engineering and Natural Sciences

    • Humanities and Social Sciences

    • Language and Cultural Studies

    • Mathematics, Natural Sciences

    • Medicine, Health Sciences

    • You can also see the complete list of available Postgraduate Courses.

  • Program Period: Between 12 and 36 months depending on the length of the chosen study program.

  • DAAD Scholarship Deadline: Depending on the chosen study program; please check deadlines here.

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Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026

The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded award for international students. It is available for both Master’s and PhD programs, covering the full cost of study for the entire duration of the degree.

These scholarships are designed for talented international students who wish to pursue postgraduate or doctoral studies in Germany during the 2025-2026 academic year. The foundation ensures full financial support throughout the program, enabling scholars to focus entirely on their research and academic goals.

The scholarship office of the Heinrich Böll Foundation manages the program and grants awards to outstanding graduates and doctoral candidates from outside Germany.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Master’s, PhD

  • Institution(s): The Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung

  • Study in: Germany

  • Deadline: September 01, 2025 / March 01, 2026

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Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships 2025 (Fully Funded)
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship 2025-2026

The Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded opportunity available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Germany. The scholarship provides a monthly allowance of up to EUR 850, health insurance coverage, and, if applicable, family and childcare allowances.

Each year, up to 40 outstanding students are awarded this scholarship, which also includes a seminar program designed to strengthen academic expertise and social skills. Students from all subject areas are eligible, provided they demonstrate strong academic performance, plan to study in Germany, and are committed to the values of social democracy.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Diploma

  • Institution(s): Friedrich Ebert Stiftung

  • Study in: Germany

  • Opportunity Focus Areas: Many courses are supported, but not pure study abroad programs outside the EU

  • Program Period: The maximum funding period corresponds to BAföG regulations

  • Number of Scholarships: Up to 40

  • Deadline:

    • Masters: April 30, 2025, for summer semester / October 31, 2025, for winter semester

    • Bachelor / Diploma / Magister students as well as students aiming for a state examination: After the 1st semester and later. up to 3 semesters before the end of the standard period of study

    • Medical students: After the 4th semester or after the physics until the end of the 6th semester

    • PhD students: At any time

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International Max Planck Research School PhD Scholarship 2025-2026
International Max Planck Research School PhD Scholarship 2025-2026

The IMPRS PhD Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded doctoral award available to outstanding international candidates. The funding package includes comprehensive health coverage, retirement contributions, and additional social benefits. Doctoral researchers receive a minimum monthly stipend of €1,700 net, after taxes and deductions.

The International Max Planck Research School for Cell, Developmental, and Systems Biology provides a world-class training environment for PhD candidates. Located in Dresden, the program is spread across three research institutes and integrates disciplines such as biology, chemistry, physics, and computer science. With faculty and collaborators from more than 50 countries, the school encourages cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary work on key scientific challenges, including fundamental questions like: How do cells assemble into tissues and organisms?

IMPRS actively seeks innovative and ambitious young scientists who are naturally inquisitive and motivated to explore new frontiers in research. Selected scholars demonstrate both academic excellence and leadership potential, with the ability to succeed in a competitive, collaborative, and interdisciplinary scientific setting.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Doctoral (PhD)

  • Institution(s): International Max Planck Research School

  • Study in: Germany

  • Courses Offered:

    • Physics

    • Biology

    • Chemistry

    • Computer science

    • Applied Mathematics

    • Life Sciences

    • Engineering

  • Program Period: 4 Years

  • Deadline: Applications are accepted at any time

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Rosa Luxemburg Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026
Rosa Luxemburg Foundation Scholarship 2025-2026

Great news for postgraduates! Applications are now open for the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships, offering full financial support for international master’s and PhD students.

The Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships 2025-2026 provide a monthly allowance of €1,350, plus a €100 research cost subsidy and additional health care support. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, the scholarship duration is based on the standard study period (Regelstudienzeit), with possible extensions.

Beyond financial aid, the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung offers a variety of academic and professional development opportunities, including political education events, summer schools, workshops, seminars on research methodology, and training in rhetoric, conflict management, and self-management.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Master’s, PhD

  • Institution: Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung

  • Host Country: Germany

  • Fields of Study: All fields except Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Medicine

  • Program Duration: Master’s – up to 3 years; PhD – up to 4 years

  • Application Deadline: October 1, 2025 (for summer semester start on April 1)

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Neufert-Foundation Scholarships 2025-2026
Neufert-Foundation Scholarships 2025-2026
Pursue Your Master’s Degree in Germany

Great news for aspiring architects! Applications for the Neufert-Foundation Scholarships are currently open.

The Neufert-Foundation Scholarships welcome international students who wish to pursue a Master’s degree in Architecture, Landscaping, or Urban Development in Germany. Eligible applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree and be starting their Master’s studies.

The foundation is dedicated to preserving the cultural and architectural legacy of Prof. Ernst Neufert, a renowned Bauhaus student and author of Bauentwurfslehre. His extensive travels shaped his globally recognized work, inspiring the foundation to support young architects in gaining valuable international experience.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Master’s

  • Institution: Neufert-Foundation

  • Host Country: Germany

  • Fields of Study: Architecture, Landscaping, Urban Development

  • Program Duration: 1.5 to 2 years

  • Application Deadline: May 15

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Constructor University Scholarships 2025-2026
Constructor University Scholarships 2025-2026

Constructor University Scholarships 2025-2026 are fully funded opportunities for international students. These scholarships are available for master’s studies and provide merit-based financial support of up to €10,000 per year.

At the master’s level, students enhance their expertise, specialize in a chosen field, and strengthen their academic qualifications. Master’s students at Jacobs University are trained to research and analyze issues from multiple perspectives, extending beyond traditional disciplinary boundaries.

Jacobs University offers two English-taught master’s programs—Data Engineering (MSc) and Supply Chain Management (MSc)—in fields of Big Data and Logistics, both with strong international career prospects.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Undergraduate and Masters

  • Institution(s): Constructor University

  • Study in: Germany

  • Opportunity Focus Areas:

  • Program Period: 2 years

  • Deadline: Click here to see the deadlines

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Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)
Humboldt Research Fellowship 2026 (Fully Funded)

The Humboldt Research Fellowships 2025-2026 are fully funded opportunities for international researchers. These fellowships are available exclusively for postdoctoral studies and provide a monthly stipend of €3,200, along with additional financial support for accompanying family members and research-related expenses.

Funded by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the program is designed for outstanding scholars and scientists from abroad who are at the start of their research careers. Eligible applicants must have earned their doctorate within the last four years and are invited to spend 6–24 months conducting research in Germany.

The fellowship requires collaboration with an academic host at a German research institution. Applicants are free to select their research topic and host, but the project details — including duration and objectives — must be agreed upon in advance. Please note that short-term visits for training, study programs, or conferences are not covered under this fellowship.

Scholarship Summary

  • Level of Study: Post-Doctoral

  • Institution(s): Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

  • Study in: Germany

  • Courses Offered: Click here to find all the available courses

  • Program Period: Six to 24 months

  • Deadline: Open throughout the year

Why Study in Germany?

  • Free or low-cost tuition at most public universities

  • Globally ranked institutions such as TU Munich, Heidelberg University, and LMU Munich

  • Diverse range of English-taught programs for international students

  • Strong focus on research and innovation

  • Post-study work visa opportunities

  • Safe and student-friendly cities

  • Growing international student community in major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt

Top Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for international Students

Below are some of the most prestigious scholarships that cover tuition, living expenses, travel costs, and more:

General Eligibility Criteria

While requirements vary across scholarships, general conditions include:

Criteria

Details

Nationality

international

Academic Performance

Minimum 75–80% or GPA equivalent

Degree Level

Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD

Language Requirements

IELTS/TOEFL (English), TestDaF/DSH (German, if required)

Motivation Letter

Clearly explaining study goals and how it aligns with scholarship

Research Proposal (PhD only)

For research-based programs

Work/Volunteer Experience

Preferred but not mandatory in some cases

How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Select your program and university on DAAD or respective websites

  2. Check scholarship deadlines (usually between October–March each year)

  3. Prepare documents:

    • Academic transcripts & certificates

    • Passport copy

    • English/German language test scores

    • Motivation letter

    • Research proposal (if applicable)

  4. Apply online via the scholarship provider portal or university portal

  5. Submit notarized hard copies (if required)

  6. Wait for interview or selection results

Best Cities in Germany for international Students

City

Highlights

Berlin

Multicultural, tech hub, excellent universities like Humboldt & TU Berlin

Munich

Home to TU Munich and LMU; scenic, safe, and academically rigorous

Heidelberg

Germany’s oldest university, strong research culture

Frankfurt

Business and finance center with job opportunities

Aachen

Known for engineering; home to RWTH Aachen University

Stuttgart

Strong in automotive and mechanical engineering

FAQs – Fully Funded Germany Scholarships for internationals

1. Are there tuition fees in Germany?
Most public universities do not charge tuition fees, except for a small semester contribution (around €250).

2. Is IELTS mandatory?
Yes, for English-taught programs. A minimum band score of 6.5 is usually required.

3. Can I apply without knowing German?
Yes, many Master’s and PhD programs are in English. German is helpful for daily life and jobs.

4. How many DAAD scholarships can I apply for?
You can apply for only one DAAD scholarship program per year.

5. Do I need a blocked account?
Not for most fully funded scholarships, but if self-financing or partial funding, yes.

6. Are living costs covered?
Yes, most scholarships provide a monthly stipend for accommodation, food, and transport.

7. Is it easy to find part-time work in Germany?
Yes. International students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year.

8. Can I bring family on a student visa?
Yes, but financial proof and accommodation is required.

9. Are these scholarships competitive?
Yes, but strong academic records and a clear motivation letter increase chances.

10. Do I need to return to Pakistan after my studies?
Not necessarily. Many students stay for work using Germany’s post-study work visa.

11. Are these scholarships available every year?
Yes, most scholarships have annual cycles.

12. Can I apply if I have a 3rd division or below 3.0 GPA?
Chances are slim; most programs require strong academic performance.

13. Is health insurance provided?
Yes, fully funded scholarships include health coverage.

14. Can undergraduate students apply?
Few options exist at the Bachelor level, mostly for postgraduate or PhD studies.

15. Can I study medicine on these scholarships?
Medicine is highly competitive and usually requires proficiency in German.

16. When should I apply?
Start applications 6–12 months before the intake, especially between October–March.

17. What’s the academic intake in Germany?
Major intakes are Winter Semester (October) and Summer Semester (April).

18. Are there scholarships for short courses or training?
Yes, DAAD and others offer short-term research and training scholarships.

19. Are documents required in German?
English documents are accepted for English-taught programs; some may need translations.

20. How do I find a supervisor for PhD scholarships?
Search university websites or DAAD portals and email professors with a research proposal.

Final Thoughts

Germany offers an exciting and accessible path for international students dreaming of international education. With dozens of fully funded scholarships, high-quality universities, and welcoming policies for international students, now is the time to prepare and apply.

Whether you're looking to pursue advanced engineering, public policy, medical sciences, or research, Germany could be your gateway to a brighter academic future — without the burden of student debt.