The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD, Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is one of the best-known funders of students and doctoral candidates. Anyone searching for a DAAD scholarship quickly meets many programmes with different target groups, countries and study stages. That can look confusing, but it is manageable: the key is to find the right call for applications first and only then prepare the application. This guide shows you how to proceed and where to find binding information on deadlines.
Short answer: You search for DAAD scholarships in the DAAD scholarship database. Applications go through the DAAD application portal, and for some programmes only through a nomination. The DAAD overview page lists no fixed deadlines for the programmes it covers. The deadline is stated in the individual call for applications. Which programmes are open to you depends on your origin, study stage and goal. Last updated: November 2026.
The most important points at a glance
- Start with the DAAD scholarship database rather than general search results.
- Many programmes address particular countries of origin or study stages, so check this first.
- Applications run through the DAAD application portal, and some programmes require a nomination instead.
- Fixed deadlines are published in the call for each programme, not on the overview page.
- A scholarship only makes sense if your study plan and the application route fit together.
Which DAAD programmes exist for students?
The DAAD bundles its scholarships on an overview page. There the programmes are arranged by target group and study goal. The table below shows some examples of how the page describes them. It is not a complete list, and the target groups apply only as the page states them.
| Programme (example) | Target group according to the overview | Application route |
|---|---|---|
| Study scholarships for all academic subjects | Mainly people from industrialised countries | Scholarship database, then application portal |
| Study scholarships, master programme in STEM subjects | Students from developing and emerging countries | Scholarship database, then application portal |
| Hilde Domin Programme | At-risk students and doctoral candidates denied the right to education in their home country | Nomination by an institution based in Germany |
| Scholarship for the entire doctorate in Germany | Mainly applicants from developing and emerging countries | Scholarship database, then application portal |
The overview shows that entry requirements vary considerably between programmes. A programme aimed at people from developing countries does not automatically suit your situation. Check the target group before you invest time in an application. For a general introduction to scholarships, the German guide Stipendium im Studium finden: Arten, Anbieter und Voraussetzungen (in German) is helpful.
How do you search the scholarship database?
The DAAD database is the central entry point. It lists calls for applications that can be filtered by funding type, study stage and origin. Read the call in full before you decide. It should contain information on requirements, benefits and the deadline, and those points differ from programme to programme.
- Define your goal: Decide whether you want to study abroad, conduct research or begin a doctorate.
- Check the target group: Compare your origin and study stage with the call for applications.
- Note the deadline: Enter the closing date in your calendar with a reminder at least two weeks before.
- Collect documents: Prepare certificates, your CV, a motivation letter and any proof of language skills in advance.
How does the application through the portal work?
Most programmes require an application through the DAAD application portal. The exact input depends on the programme, but the process is similar: create an account, select the programme, enter your details, upload documents and submit on time. Make sure documents are in the required formats and complete, because late additions are not always possible.
The Hilde Domin Programme works differently. There you do not apply yourself. An institution based in Germany nominates you, and only then does the DAAD invite the person to apply through the portal. Anyone who might qualify learns this through the nominating institution rather than by registering independently.
What should you consider about deadlines and study abroad?
Many funding programmes are tied to a stay abroad, for example an exchange semester or a master programme abroad. For an exchange semester, it is worth reading the German guide Auslandssemester planen: Bewerbung, Erasmus und Finanzierung (in German), because you should check whether different sources of funding can be combined.
A scholarship usually does not replace planning for the rest of your studies. Clarify in advance whether the funding is offset against other income, a part-time job or other benefits. For longer stays abroad, an overview of the total financing is especially valuable.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a DAAD scholarship for every student?
No. The programmes follow target groups defined in each call for applications. Some are limited to people from certain countries or study stages. Check the details in the call before you apply.
Where can I find the current deadline?
The deadline is stated in the call for the specific programme in the scholarship database. The DAAD overview page lists no fixed deadlines, so the call is the binding source.
Can I apply directly for the Hilde Domin Programme?
No. The programme requires a nomination by an institution based in Germany. A direct application is not provided for this programme.
What is the difference to a doctoral scholarship?
A doctoral scholarship funds the research phase of a dissertation, while a study scholarship funds studies. For the financing of a doctorate there is a separate German guide: Promotion finanzieren: Stelle, Stipendium oder Eigenmittel im Vergleich (in German).
Do I need a motivation letter?
That depends on the programme. Many calls ask for a motivation letter or a project description. The exact requirements are in the call and in the portal, not in a general guide.
A strong application shows why this particular programme fits your study path. Describe concretely which research question or field motivates you and which earlier steps have prepared you for it. General statements about openness to the world do not replace a traceable reason. Read the call a second time and pick up its wording, so that it becomes clear that you have understood the programme properly.
Many applicants also underestimate the time needed for administrative steps. Certified copies, translations and language certificates can take several weeks. Start with these items as soon as the call is published, and keep a copy of everything you submit, because you may need it for a later application or for a financing question.
What to do now
- Open the DAAD scholarship database and filter by your study goal and origin.
- Read the call in full and note the target group, deadline and documents.
- Prepare documents and a motivation letter that you can adapt for several applications.
- Submit on time through the portal and keep the confirmation.
Related reading
- Stipendium im Studium finden: Arten, Anbieter und Voraussetzungen (in German)
- Auslandssemester planen: Bewerbung, Erasmus und Finanzierung (in German)
- Auslandsstudium finanzieren: Auslands-BAföG, Erasmus und Stipendien (in German)
- Promotion finanzieren: Stelle, Stipendium oder Eigenmittel im Vergleich (in German)
Sources:
- DAAD: Overview of DAAD scholarships (in German)
- DAAD: Scholarship database (in German)
Last updated: November 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
