The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst — German Academic Exchange Service) has launched its 2026 scholarship application cycle. The DAAD is one of the world's largest scholarship organisations, funding over 100,000 scholarships annually across 137 countries. For Indian students, the EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) program is the most commonly accessed.
DAAD Programs Available for Indian Nationals
- EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses): For students from India who wish to do a master's in specific development-relevant fields. Deadline: October 15, 2025
- Research Grants (Doctoral): PhD funding for strong academic candidates with a research proposal. Deadline: Rolling
- Helmut-Schmidt Programme (MIPLC): For law and social science students. Deadline: October 31, 2025
- DAAD University Partnerships: Contact your specific German university's international office for institution-specific DAAD funding.
EPOS Program Details
- Value: €861/month living stipend + health insurance + travel allowance + tuition
- Duration: Course duration (typically 1–2 years)
- Eligible fields: Agriculture, Economics, Engineering, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, Health and Medicine — all with a development focus
- Key requirement: Minimum 2 years of relevant professional work experience
- Return obligation: Scholarship recipients are expected to return to India after completing their degree
DAAD scholarships are highly competitive — India receives approximately 400–500 DAAD scholarships annually across all programs. Early application with a strong personal statement and research proposal is essential.
DAAD Application Checklist
- ✅ Letter of motivation (1,000–1,500 words)
- ✅ CV/Resume in tabular form
- ✅ Copies of academic certificates and transcripts
- ✅ Language certificates (German or English as required by the specific program)
- ✅ Two academic references from faculty members
- ✅ Proof of work experience (minimum 2 years)
GS Study Abroad helps Indian students prepare DAAD scholarship applications from shortlisting to essay writing. Get DAAD scholarship guidance.