Open calls for DAAD funding

Have you completed a Master’s degree with above-average results? This scholarship programme offers the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree in Germany.
Programme Highlights
• Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office
• Doctoral studies at German universities
• Start of scholarship: October 2027
Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

More info

This scholarship programme targets high-achieving students from eligible developing and emerging countries who would like to complete a Master’s degree in the STEM subjects at a German university.

It offers the opportunity to progress academic and professional careers in innovation-driving STEM fields in Germany with a Master’s degree in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and engineering.

Funding is available for a complete Master’s degree (full-time, on-campus) at a state or state-recognised university in Germany in the STEM subjects of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and engineering. Study programmes with integrated stays outside Germany are excluded.

Interdisciplinary degree programmes must have a designated STEM focus. It must be a tuition-free Master’s degree programme.

Funding is not possible for a Master’s degree programme that has already begun in Germany. Funding is only available for degree programmes starting in winter term 26/27.

Deadline: 30 September 2026

More info 

We have a 3-part Web Seminar series to guide you through the application process in July, August and September respectively.

Register here to participate.

The programme is aimed at early career researchers as well as established academics and scientists from countries on the OECD DAC list in Sub Saharan Africa:Latin America and Asia are additionally envisaged as target regions. It funds short research stays in Germany as well as preparatory and cooperation visits to support the implementation of development related research projects and the establishment of international scientific collaborations.
Scholarship holders will deepen their subject specific, methodological and analytical skills, expand their scientific networks and increase their visibility in the international research context. After completion of the funding period, they will apply the knowledge and contacts gained at their home institutions and contribute there to research, teaching, knowledge transfer and institutional development.
The programme is financed by funds from the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Who can apply?

Applications are open to doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, university teachers and established academics and scientists from countries on the OECD DAC list—primarily in Sub-Saharan Africa, but also in Latin America and Asia, who are employed at a university or a research institute in their home country.
Women, socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals and persons from disadvantaged regions or groups are especially encouraged to apply.
You are not eligible to apply if you are already in Germany at the time of application or are conducting your entire doctoral or postdoctoral research at a German higher education institution.

More info