Hey Bursaries Room fam! Are you dreaming of taking your postgraduate studies to a whole new level, maybe even in Europe? Well, guess what – there’s an incredible opportunity that could make that dream a reality for South African students! We’re talking about the super prestigious DAAD Scholarships in Germany. If you’re looking to pursue a Master’s or PhD in a development-related field and boost your career, then you absolutely need to stick around for this!
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers these amazing scholarships specifically for graduates from developing and newly industrialised countries, including South Africa. This isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s about gaining international experience, contributing to development, and becoming a leader in your field. This bursary helps you cover your studies at a top German university, so you can focus on your academics and future impact.
Who Can Apply?
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of who qualifies for this awesome opportunity. Generally, the DAAD is looking for graduates who:
- Are currently working in a public, state, or private company in a developing country, involved in planning and executing development-focused projects (think technological, economic, or social areas).
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (usually four years) in a related subject.
- Have completed their academic degree with excellent results (in the upper third of their class).
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience *after* their first degree at the time of application.
- Had their academic degrees awarded normally not more than six years ago.
- Are nationals of an eligible country (South Africa is on the OECD-DAC list!).
- For courses taught in German: You’ll need a current German language certificate (minimum B1 level, no older than two years). Don’t worry, the DAAD scholarship even includes a preparatory German language course in Germany for up to six months!
- For courses taught in English: You’ll need proof of adequate English language skills as per the specific course regulations.
What Does It Cover?
This is the part everyone loves! The DAAD Scholarship is pretty generous. Here’s what you can expect it to cover:
- Monthly Stipend: You’ll receive 992 euros per month for Master’s students or 1,300 euros per month for doctoral candidates – that’s some solid support for living expenses!
- Insurance: Payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance cover are all included.
- Travel Allowance: Your travel costs are covered, unless already paid for by your home country or another source.
- Additional Benefits: Under certain circumstances, you might also get a monthly rent subsidy and even an allowance for accompanying family members. How cool is that?
- Duration: The scholarship lasts for 12 to 24 months for Master’s degrees (depending on the institution) and up to 42 months for PhDs.
- Study Fields: The scholarship supports Masters or PhD courses in a wide range of development-related fields, including Economic Sciences/Business Administration/Political Economics; Development Cooperation; Engineering and Related Sciences; Mathematics; Regional and Urban Planning; Agricultural and Forest Sciences; Natural and Environmental Sciences; Medicine and Public Health; Social Sciences, Education and Law; and Media Studies.
How to Apply?
Okay, ready to apply? This is super important: applications are made directly to the specific course you want to study, not directly to DAAD initially. Here’s your game plan:
- Find Your Course: First, check out the official DAAD list of development-related postgraduate courses for the 2026/2027 academic year. Each course has its own specific application deadline, which generally falls between August and October 2025.
- Check Eligibility and Requirements: Once you’ve picked your course, visit that specific university/course website to understand their precise application procedure, required documents, and exact deadline.
- Read the Fine Print: It’s always a good idea to read the DAAD FAQs and the 2026/2027 programme brochure for full details on the scholarship.
- Start Your Application: Prepare all your documents well in advance and submit them directly to the course or university as instructed.
- Official Website: For the most comprehensive information and to access the scholarship database, always refer to the official DAAD scholarship website: https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=3&origin=190&subjectGrps=F&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&detail=50076777
- List of Courses & Deadlines: Find the specific deadlines for each course here: List of all Postgraduate courses with application deadlines 2026/27
- Eligible Countries: Check if your country is on the eligible list here: Eligible Countries List
If studying in Germany and making a real-world impact sounds like your next big adventure, then seriously, don’t miss out on the DAAD Scholarships! This is your chance to get fully funded for a world-class education. Start preparing your application now and remember to explore more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room! Your future is calling!