A performance-based scholarship from a German university goes to students who show above-average academic results and meet the selection criteria of that university. The universities make the selection themselves, often within the framework of the Deutschlandstipendium (national scholarship programme). This guide explains typical requirements, how much support you can expect and how to apply.
Short answer: A performance-based scholarship goes to students with above-average academic results who still have at least two semesters of the standard period of study ahead of them. According to the call for applications of Hochschule München for the winter semester 2026/27, the Deutschlandstipendium was 300 euros per month. Half of the funds come from the federal government and half from private sponsors. Last updated: October 2026.
The Most Important Points at a Glance
- Universities themselves award most performance-based scholarships, often through the Deutschlandstipendium.
- According to the call for applications of Hochschule München (winter semester 2026/27, status April 2026), the support is 300 euros per month.
- The funds come half from federal money and half from private sponsors.
- Typical requirements are above-average results and at least two semesters of the standard period of study still remaining.
- Application windows are short. At Hochschule München, online applications ran from 27 April to 17 May 2026.
Who Can Apply for a Performance-Based Scholarship?
The criteria differ between universities. The call for applications from Hochschule München shows which points are typically checked. It is an example and not a rule for your university.
| Criterion | Example from the call for applications | What you should check |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Only above-average results are considered | Transcript and your average compared with your cohort |
| Remaining period of study | At least two semesters of the standard period of study must remain | Study plan and number of semesters |
| Double funding | Anyone who already receives performance-based support averaging at least 30 euros per month is excluded | Notices for other scholarships and grants |
| Income | Not named as a requirement in the call for applications | Read the call of your own university in full |
Double funding is the point people most often overlook. If you already hold a scholarship, check the rules of the new offer before you apply. A written answer from the university is more reliable than assumptions.
How High Is a Deutschlandstipendium?
According to the call for applications of Hochschule München, the support is 300 euros per month. It is usually approved first for two semesters. An extension is possible if talent and performance justify it and the standard period of study has not yet been reached. Regular proof is required for this.
A calculation helps put this into perspective. Assumption: 300 euros per month over twelve months, which corresponds to two semesters.
| Item | Amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly support | 300 euros | According to the call of Hochschule München, winter semester 2026/27 |
| Support over two semesters (assumption: twelve months) | 3,600 euros | Calculation example, not a promise of funding |
| Share of federal and private funding | 50 percent each | According to the same call |
Whether the support covers your living costs depends on your situation. A scholarship is usually a supplement, not a replacement for other income.
How Does the Application Work?
- Find the current call for applications of your university in the scholarship portal or at the student records office. Read all the criteria.
- Gather the documents required, for example your transcript, CV and letter of motivation. Requirements differ between universities.
- Note the deadline in your calendar and submit complete documents on time.
- Keep proof ready in case the university asks for additional information during the selection process.
Apply early, even if the deadline still seems far away. This leaves you time to supply missing documents if the university asks. Processing times and selection rounds vary by university and semester, so the information from the student records office is the most reliable source.
What Counts in the Selection Process?
Universities usually assess grades and your progress so far. The call for applications may also ask you to explain your motivation or to show social commitment. Whether and how this applies to you is stated in the call of your university. Follow those requirements, even if other application guides suggest something different.
In many cases, a selection committee makes the decision. A clear, factual justification helps the committee place your application. Say what you study, what you plan to do with it and why the support helps your studies. Exaggeration and empty phrases tend to hurt rather than help.
Three mistakes happen especially often:
- The deadline is missed because the call was read too late. Note the date immediately.
- The documents are incomplete, for example because the transcript is missing or out of date.
- Another scholarship is not disclosed, even though the call asks about double funding.
How Does a Scholarship Affect BAföG?
Whether a scholarship and BAföG can be combined depends on the counting rules that apply in your case. The office for training assistance decides whether a scholarship is counted towards BAföG. Clarify this before you accept an offer, so you are not surprised by the notice. An overview of the funding options is in our guide to BAföG 2026 eligibility, amount and repayment.
Where Can You Find More Scholarships?
Besides performance-based scholarships from your university, foundations run their own selection procedures. Our overview of scholarships for students in Germany is a good starting point, and our tips on how to apply for a scholarship explain what selection committees look for. Many scholarship bodies ask for motivation and commitment in addition to good grades.
If you apply for several offers, keep a short overview of deadlines, criteria and required documents. This helps you spot where double funding could arise and avoid errors in your details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to apply for a performance-based scholarship myself?
In most cases, yes. Ask the student records office whether your university uses a different procedure. Always submit a complete application if the call requires it.
Can I receive two scholarships at the same time?
That depends on the offer. The call of Hochschule München excludes students who already receive performance-based support averaging at least 30 euros per month. Other foundations have their own rules. Read the conditions of each offer before you accept.
How long is a Deutschlandstipendium paid?
According to the call of Hochschule München, it is usually approved first for two semesters and can be extended up to the standard period of study. Proof of performance and progress is required for this.
Is the Deutschlandstipendium available at every university?
No. Whether your university awards it is answered by the student records office or on the university website. The number of places also varies.
What You Should Do Now
- Check whether your university offers a performance-based scholarship or the Deutschlandstipendium, and note the deadline.
- Compare your transcript with the criteria in the call. If the gap is large, ask the student records office whether applying is still worthwhile.
- Clarify possible double funding and the effect on BAföG before you accept an offer.
- Submit a complete application and keep the documents ready for questions.
Related Articles
- Scholarships for students: Types, providers, requirements
- How to Apply for a Scholarship: Tips That Impress
- BAföG 2026: Eligibility, Amount and Repayment Explained
- Studying Without BAföG: Your Funding Options
Sources: Call for applications, Deutschlandstipendium winter semester 2026/27, Hochschule München, status 8 April 2026, PDF (in German). For other rules of your university, please check directly with the university.
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
