List of Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany 2025. Germany is one of the most sought-after locations for overseas students because of its well-known excellent standard of education and tuition-free or inexpensive schooling. Living expenditures, however, can still add up, even with very cheap tuition. Thankfully, there are plenty of fully financed scholarships available in Germany in 2025 for students from foreign countries. These scholarships cover living expenses in addition to tuition. With the help of these scholarships, students can continue their education stress-free in a vibrant and cutting-edge setting.
We have put together an extensive list of fully funded scholarships in Germany for 2025 in this guide. Regardless of your preference for undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies, these scholarships provide funding in a wide range of subjects and fields.
1. Scholarships offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
The DAAD Scholarships are among the most prestigious scholarships for international students pursuing graduate degrees in Germany. These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to contributing to the development of their home countries.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from developing and newly industrialised countries who have a bachelor’s degree and at least two years of professional experience.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, health insurance, travel allowance, and research expenses.
- Application Deadline: Typically between October and December 2024, depending on the programme.
Tip: Research the specific DAAD programmes that align with your academic goals and ensure that you meet the language requirements, as many programmes are offered in both English and German.
2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
The Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships are awarded to international students at all levels of study who wish to pursue their education in Germany. The foundation aims to support students who demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability, human rights, and democracy.
- Eligibility: Open to international students pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or PhD programs in Germany. Candidates must demonstrate academic excellence, social engagement, and a commitment to the foundation’s values.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly living stipend, travel allowance, and additional allowances for family members (if applicable).
- Application Deadline: March 1 and September 1, 2025, depending on the program and level of study.
Tip: Emphasise your commitment to environmental issues and social justice in your application, as these are core values of the foundation.
3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships
The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships support international students who exhibit academic excellence, political awareness, and a commitment to social or political issues. This scholarship is ideal for students interested in political science, law, economics, or related fields.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with a strong academic record and a demonstrated commitment to social and political causes. Candidates must be under the age of 30.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly living stipend, travel costs, and additional support for research and internships.
- Application Deadline: July 15, 2024, for the 2025 academic year.
Tip: Include details of your political engagement and leadership experiences in your application to strengthen your profile.
4. Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships
The Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships are offered to international students who are committed to social democracy and the foundation’s values. These scholarships are available for undergraduate and postgraduate students from developing countries.
- Eligibility: Open to international students from developing countries who demonstrate a commitment to social justice, democracy, and academic achievement. Proficiency in German is required for most programs.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly living allowance, health insurance, and travel allowance.
- Application Deadline: Rolling deadlines, with a recommendation to apply as early as possible.
Tip: Familiarise yourself with the foundation’s values and tailor your application to reflect your alignment with their mission and goals.
5. Deutschlandstipendium (Germany Scholarship Programme)
The Deutschlandstipendium provides financial support to talented students enrolled in German universities. It is funded by the German government and private sponsors, and it is awarded based on merit rather than financial need.
- Eligibility: Open to international and domestic students enrolled in a German university who demonstrate academic excellence and social engagement.
- Coverage: €300 per month, which can be combined with other financial aid programmes. It is awarded for at least two semesters.
- Application Deadline: Varies by university, typically between June and October 2024.
Tip: Apply directly through your chosen German university, as each institution manages its own Deutschlandstipendium selection process.
6. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree Scholarships
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJMD) Scholarships offer fully funded opportunities for students to study in Germany as part of a joint master’s programme with other European universities. These scholarships are available for a variety of disciplines and encourage mobility within Europe.
- Eligibility: Open to students from any country pursuing a master’s degree in a participating Erasmus Mundus programme.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, travel costs, monthly living allowance, and health insurance.
- Application Deadline: December 2024 to January 2025, depending on the specific programme.
Tip: Select an Erasmus Mundus programme that includes a semester in Germany and aligns with your career goals. Each programme has its own application process and requirements.
7. Humboldt Research Fellowship for International PhD Students
The Humboldt Research Fellowship offers fully funded scholarships for international students pursuing doctoral research in Germany. The fellowship is awarded to highly qualified candidates in all academic fields who wish to conduct research in collaboration with a German institution.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with a master’s degree and a strong academic record. Applicants must have a research proposal and the endorsement of a German host institution.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, travel expenses, and research costs.
- Application Deadline: Rolling, with applications accepted year-round.
Tip: Focus on developing a well-structured research proposal and secure a German host institution’s endorsement before applying.
8. KAAD Scholarships for Developing Countries
The Catholic Academic Exchange Service (KAAD) provides scholarships for students from developing countries who wish to pursue graduate studies in Germany. These scholarships are offered to students with a commitment to social responsibility and who have a religious affiliation, typically Catholic.
- Eligibility: Open to students from developing countries who are members of the Catholic faith or have ties to the Christian community. A strong academic record and social commitment are essential.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel costs.
- Application Deadline: January 15 and June 30, 2025, depending on the specific scholarship round.
Tip: Demonstrate how your education will contribute to the development of your home country and align with the values of the KAAD.
9. University of Freiburg Global Scholarships
The University of Freiburg offers various scholarships for international students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. These scholarships are often based on academic merit and are designed to attract outstanding students to the university.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with a strong academic record and demonstrated potential for success at the University of Freiburg.
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition fees, and in some cases, living expenses.
- Application Deadline: Varies by programme, typically between December 2024 and February 2025.
Tip: Contact the admissions office at the University of Freiburg to learn about specific scholarship opportunities for your chosen programme.
10. RWTH Aachen University Scholarships for International Students
RWTH Aachen University offers fully funded scholarships to international students pursuing undergraduate and graduate studies. These scholarships are merit-based and are available in various fields, including engineering, sciences, and business.
- Eligibility: Open to international students with an excellent academic record who are admitted to RWTH Aachen University.
- Coverage: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and research costs for specific programs.
- Application Deadline: January 2025 for most programs.
Tip: Prepare a strong academic record and consider applying for research-based programmes to increase your chances of securing a scholarship.
Conclusion
International students have great opportunities to pursue their academic goals without financial stress thanks to the fully funded scholarships in Germany for 2025. Germany is a top choice for international students due to its excellent educational system and reasonably priced cost of living. With the help of these scholarships, you can fully devote yourself to your studies and cultural experiences, as they cover living expenses as well as tuition fees.
Whether you’re interested in pursuing an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral degree, these scholarships offer a pathway to achieve your academic and career aspirations in Germany. Start preparing early, research specific requirements, and put together a strong application to maximise your chances of securing one of these scholarships.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for multiple fully funded scholarships in Germany?
Yes, you can apply for multiple scholarships as long as you meet the eligibility requirements for each. Be sure to tailor your application to each specific scholarship.
2. What documents are required for fully funded scholarships in Germany?
Most scholarships require academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and proof of language proficiency (German or English, depending on the program). Some may also require a research proposal for graduate studies.
3. When should I start applying for scholarships for the 2025 academic year?
Start preparing your applications by mid-2024, as many scholarship deadlines fall between late 2024 and early 2025.
4. Are fully funded scholarships in Germany competitive?
Yes, fully funded scholarships in Germany are highly competitive. Submitting a well-prepared application that highlights your achievements and goals will improve your chances of success.
5. Are there scholarships available for specific fields of study in Germany?
Yes, many scholarships are offered for specific fields, such as engineering, science, social sciences, and the humanities. Research each scholarship to find the ones that best match your academic and career goals.
By starting early and crafting a compelling application, you can take advantage of these fully funded scholarships and embark on an enriching educational journey in Germany.
