Short answer: The Deutschlandstipendium pays 300 euros a month. The federal government and private donors each fund half, and your university selects the recipients. The amount does not depend on income, and the scholarship is not counted against BAföG. Last updated: October 2026, based on information from the programme and the universities.
The German merit scholarship (Deutschlandstipendium) is a funding programme for students at German higher education institutions. It pays 300 euros a month, regardless of your income or your parents’ income. If you come across the term in application portals or university letters, this entry explains what it means.
The Most Important Points at a Glance
- The Deutschlandstipendium pays 300 euros per month (as of 2026).
- It does not depend on income. Neither your income nor your parents’ income decides.
- The federal government and private donors each cover half of the amount.
- It is not counted against BAföG and does not have to be repaid.
- There is no legal entitlement. The university selects recipients and sets the deadlines.
- Funding is limited to the regular period of study, but you can apply again.
What Is Behind the Term?
Under the Deutschlandstipendium, universities fund students, generally from all subjects, who stand out through academic performance, commitment or special circumstances. Each university sets its own criteria. The overview of scholarships for students covers the other funding routes.
How Much Does the Scholarship Pay Over Time?
Assumption: you receive the funding for twelve months, that is two semesters of about six months each. That gives 300 euros × 12 = 3,600 euros a year.
| Feature | Detail | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Amount | 300 euros per month | 2026 |
| Funding | Half federal government, half private donors | 2026 |
| Income check | None | 2026 |
| BAföG offset | No, not counted | 2026 |
| Duration | Usually two semesters, at most up to the regular period of study | 2026 |
| Legal entitlement | No | 2026 |
Source: deutschlandstipendium.de programme website, plus university information, last updated 2026.
How Does the Scholarship Fit with BAföG?
The two can be combined. The Deutschlandstipendium is not BAföG but a separate form of funding. Still, ask your BAföG office (Amt für Ausbildungsförderung) how it treats the payment, especially if you also receive BAföG. The glossary entry on the BAföG needs rate (Bedarfssatz) (in German) explains how BAföG need is calculated.
Who Can Apply?
As a rule, you can apply at your university if it offers the programme. It assesses academic performance, commitment and, in some cases, special personal circumstances. There is no legal entitlement. Applying can still be worthwhile, because universities select according to their own priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to repay the Deutschlandstipendium?
No. The Deutschlandstipendium is a grant, not a loan. You receive the amount without any repayment obligation, as long as you meet your university’s conditions.
Can I apply more than once?
Yes, many universities allow you to apply again. However, funding is limited to the regular period of study. Your university decides again each time whether to consider you.
When is the application deadline?
Each university sets its own deadlines. You will find them on your university’s website. Allow some time, because documents such as an enrolment certificate can take a while to obtain.
Can I combine the scholarship with another one?
That depends on the rules of your university and of the other funder. Ask both before you accept. This helps you avoid double funding, which may have to be paid back.
What to Do Now
- Find out on your university’s website about deadlines, criteria and required documents.
- Check whether you already receive BAföG and clarify any offset with your BAföG office.
- Submit your application in full and on time, with your CV and supporting documents.
- Stay reachable after you apply in case the university has follow-up questions.
Related Reading
- Scholarships for students: Types, providers, requirements
- How to Apply for a Scholarship: Tips That Impress
- Is a Scholarship Taxable? Tax and Social Insurance
- BAföG needs rate explained (in German)
Sources: Deutschlandstipendium, programme website (last updated 2026), University of Erfurt, information on the Deutschlandstipendium (last updated 2026).
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
