DAAD SCHOLARSHIP (2026/27)

Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)

Are you a young professional from a developing country looking to advance your career through world-class education? The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers an incredible opportunity for the year 2026/27 through its Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS). This initiative is designed for young, academically trained professionals who hold leadership positions and wish to enhance their knowledge and skills in their respective fields.

Why Choose DAAD’s EPOS Program?

DAAD’s EPOS program is a great chance for young professionals from developing countries. Every year, it offers special postgraduate courses designed for future leaders. These 1- to 2-year programs combine advanced education with practical skills, so you’ll be ready to solve real problems in your field after graduation. Whether you work in economics, engineering, healthcare, or environmental science, EPOS helps you learn from Germany’s top universities to improve your skills and boost your career.

Multiple renowned German universities offer master’s or postgraduate courses under the EPOS program. These include HTW Berlin, University of Göttingen (GAU Göttingen), University of Leipzig (U Leipzig), Ruhr University Bochum (RU Bochum), University of Bonn/United Nations University, Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences (HS Rhein-Waal), TU Dresden, University of Flensburg, University of Hannover, University of Applied Sciences Stuttgart (HfT Stuttgart), TU Berlin, TU Dortmund, University of Hohenheim, and University of Greifswald, among many others. Each participating university offers specific degree programs eligible under the EPOS scholarship, with varying application deadlines and requirements. This makes the EPOS program an excellent opportunity for highly qualified professionals to enhance their academic and professional skills in a world-class learning environment, while building networks that can support their future contributions to sustainable development back home.

Study Areas to Boost Your Career

EPOS offers many study programs that help with global development. Universities in Germany provide courses in:

• Economics, Business Administration, and Political Economics
• Engineering, Technology, and Applied Sciences
• Agriculture, Forestry, and Environmental Sciences
• Urban Planning, Social Sciences, and Law
• Public Health, Medicine, and Development Cooperation
• Media Studies and Education

These programs combine theory with practical learning to solve real-world problems. EPOS focuses on sustainable growth, innovation, and leadership, helping you gain skills that benefit your community. For detailed course information, including the course name, university, duration, and application deadline, please visit this link: https://surl.lu/hdizai.

Prerequisites and Requirements

To qualify for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Eligible Countries
   • Applicant must currently employed in a public authority, government, or private company in a developing country (eligible countries: https://surl.li/xfgnpj).
   • Involved in planning and managing projects focused on development policies.
     
2. Educational Qualification
   • For postgraduate courses: A bachelor’s degree in a related field.
   • For PhD programs: A master’s degree in a related field.
   • Submit a copy of your academic transcripts (grades) with an explanation of your university’s grading system.

3. Academic Performance and Work Experience
   • Must have completed their degree with above-average results (top one-third of their class).
   • Must have at least two years of relevant work experience after completing a bachelor’s degree.
     
4. Recent Academic Qualification
   • The last degree must not be older than six years.
     
5. Language Skills
   • NO IELTS – Must provide proof of English proficiency (for courses in English).
     
6. Proof of Employment

Submit the following documents:

• Employment certificates showing your job title, tasks, and duration of work.
• Two reference letters:
  • One academic (from a professor or university).
  • One professional (from your employer).
• Both letters must be signed, stamped, and on official letterhead.

7. Motivation Letter

Write a 1–2 page letter explaining:

• Why you want to join the program.
• How it aligns with your academic background, career goals, and personal growth.
• How you’ll contribute to your home country’s development after the course.

8. DAAD Application Form
   • Must complete the “Application for a research/study scholarship” form.
     
9. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Must submit a Europass CV in reverse chronological order (latest experience first).
   • CV must include all academic and professional details without any gaps.

APPLICATION AND SELECTION PROCEDURE

Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to how the DAAD EPOS scholarship application and selection process works:

Step 1: Apply Directly to Your Chosen Course

Start by submitting your full application (documents like transcripts, CV, reference letters, etc.) directly to the university offering the postgraduate course you want to join. You can apply to multiple courses. Make sure your application meets the specific requirements listed for that course (e.g., deadlines, documents, language tests)

Step 2: Course Selection Committee Reviews Applications

After the deadline, the university’s selection committee reviews all applications. They look for candidates who:

• Meet all eligibility criteria (education, work experience, etc.).
• Show strong academic and professional achievements.
• Have clear goals that align with the course and DAAD’s development focus.

The committee then creates a shortlist of top candidates and recommends them to the DAAD for scholarship consideration.

Step 3: DAAD Contacts Shortlisted Candidates

If you’re shortlisted, the DAAD will email you and ask you to upload your application to their official online portal. You’ll need to:

• Create an account on the DAAD portal (if you don’t have one).
• Submit all required documents again through the portal.
• Complete any additional steps (e.g., interviews, language tests) if requested.

Deadlines matter here too! Submit everything on time to stay in the running.

Step 4: Final Decision and Notification

The DAAD reviews the shortlisted applications and makes the final selection. They consider:

• Your academic and professional background.
• How well your goals match the scholarship’s purpose.
• Available funding and program quotas.

Successful candidates will receive an official scholarship offer via email. The email will explain the next steps, like visa procedures or pre-departure training.
Unsuccessful applicants will also be notified by email.

SCHOLARSHIP VALUE AND BENEFITS

Here’s a breakdown of what the DAAD EPOS scholarship offers to successful applicant

1. Monthly Stipend (Living Allowance)

• For Master’s/Postgraduate Students: €992 per month to cover living costs like food, rent, and daily expenses.
• For PhD Students: €1,300 per month to support your higher living expenses as a doctoral researcher.

2. Insurance Coverage

• The scholarship fully covers:
• Health Insurance: For medical emergencies or routine check-ups.
• Accident Insurance: Protection in case of injuries.
• Personal Liability Insurance: Covers accidental damage to property or harm to others.

3. Travel Allowance

• You’ll receive a one-time travel subsidy to help with flight costs to Germany.
• Exception: If your home country or another organization pays for your travel, this allowance will not be provided

4. Additional Support (Depending on Your Situation)

In some cases, you may qualify for extra benefits:

1. Rent Subsidy

If your monthly rent in Germany is unusually high, DAAD may provide a monthly rent allowance to reduce your housing costs.

• Family Allowance

If you bring family members (spouse, children) to Germany, you’ll receive a monthly allowance to support their living expenses.

Why This Matters

DAAD’s financial support ensures you can focus entirely on your studies without worrying about basic needs. From health insurance to family support, the scholarship is designed to make your stay in Germany safe, comfortable, and productive.

Key Tips for Success

• Apply early to avoid last-minute errors.
• Double-check that all documents (transcripts, references, etc.) are complete and translated if needed.
• Follow instructions carefully for both the university and DAAD portal.

This process ensures fairness and transparency, giving everyone a clear chance to showcase their potential. Good luck!