What are the Fully-funded Scholarships to Study in Germany?

Germany is a fantastic place to study without worrying about tuition fees, but there are other costs you need to consider. As an international student planning to study abroad, you’ll have to cover expenses like your flight ticket, living costs, books, student fees, and more.

These additional costs can be challenging to manage. However, there’s good news! You can discover fully-funded scholarships specifically designed for international students in Germany. These scholarships will provide the necessary financial support for you to study in Germany for free.

Germany is widely recognized as one of Europe’s most affordable destinations for studying abroad. It also boasts an excellent international reputation. The country is home to several prestigious universities, many of which are ranked highly in the latest QS World University Rankings. Additionally, Germany offers an increasing number of programs taught in English, particularly at the postgraduate level.

In this article, you’ll find a comprehensive list of fully funded scholarships available for international students who wish to study in Germany. The government, non-governmental organizations, and institutions offer these scholarships, ensuring a range of opportunities for those seeking to study in Germany for free.

Below, you’ll find a selection of scholarships available to international students at all degree levels who are interested in studying in Germany.

Table of contents

• Government-funded scholarships to study in Germany
• Non-government scholarships to study in Germany
• University-specific scholarships to study in Germany

Cost of Living in Germany

What is the Average Cost of Living in Germany in 2024?

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Living in Germany is known to be affordable compared to many other European countries. To cover your living expenses comfortably, budgeting around 934 euros per month as of 2024 is generally recommended.

This amounts to an average of 934 euros per month or approximately $906 US dollars. Over the course of a year, you can expect to allocate around 11,208 euros or roughly $10,876 US dollars to cover your basic living costs in Germany.

The prices for essential items like food, accommodation, bills, clothing, and entertainment in Germany are generally in line with the average costs within the European Union. However, it’s worth noting that your monthly rent will likely be your most significant expense while living in Germany.

By understanding the approximate cost of living in Germany and planning your budget accordingly, you can ensure that you have the financial stability to enjoy your time in this vibrant and culturally rich country.

If you’re planning to study and live as an international student in Germany, it’s good to know and have accurate expectations about the cost of living in Germany. This article covers all the details you need to know.

Understanding the Cost of Living in Germany

Are you a student who just received an exciting admission letter from a university abroad? The anticipation of what the future holds can make you feel like you’re floating above the clouds. But then reality sets in, and you start contemplating the challenges and responsibilities that come with studying abroad. In Germany, you’ll need to focus on your studies and grades and navigate various other aspects of living in a foreign country, often on your own.

Feeling a little apprehensive is natural, but don’t let that dampen your excitement. The key to ensuring a successful study-abroad experience lies in having a better understanding of what awaits you across the border and how to overcome the potential challenges.

That’s where this article comes in. We’re here to provide you with the information you need to know what to expect while living in Germany. Specifically, we’ll delve into the cost of living in Germany because, let’s face it, managing your finances is a crucial aspect of your study-abroad journey.

By gaining insights into the cost of living in Germany, you’ll be better equipped to plan and budget effectively. This knowledge will enable you to make informed decisions, ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in your studies and embrace the incredible experiences in this remarkable country.

So, let’s put any fears aside and dive into the details of the cost of living in Germany. With the right information and preparation, you’ll be ready to embark on your study-abroad adventure with confidence and enthusiasm.

Government-funded scholarships to study in Germany

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DAAD Scholarships: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is a great resource for international students looking to study in Germany. They offer a wide range of scholarships at different degree levels. You can access the DAAD scholarship database by clicking the link, which provides detailed information about the available scholarships.

Erasmus+: If you’re considering studying in Europe, Erasmus+ is a program you shouldn’t miss. Led by the European Commission, it’s the largest provider of scholarships for study in the EU. Erasmus+ offers grants that help cover living costs while participating in an exchange program to study in Europe.

Both DAAD Scholarships and Erasmus+ are excellent opportunities for international students seeking financial support to study in Germany or other European countries. These scholarships provide valuable funding and open doors to unforgettable academic experiences and cultural exploration. Don’t miss out on these exciting possibilities!

Non-government scholarships to study in Germany

Alfred Töpfer Foundation: This foundation provides scholarships for students from Europe (excluding Germany), Israel, and Turkey who are interested in pursuing a degree in fields related to culture, social sciences, the arts, architecture, agriculture and forestry. Please note that applications are not currently open, but you can check back at the end of 2017 for the next round of applications.

Einstein International Postdoctoral Fellowship: Sponsored by the Einstein Foundation, this fellowship supports postdoctoral researchers in conducting their research at a university in Berlin. It’s a prestigious opportunity for those seeking to advance their academic careers.

Heinrich Böll Scholarships for International Students: These scholarships are specifically designed for international students at the master’s or PhD level who wish to study in Germany at an accredited institution. They provide financial assistance and support for students pursuing their academic goals.

Humboldt Research Fellowships for Postdoctoral Researchers: Open to scientists and scholars of any subject and nationality, these fellowships offer support to postdoctoral researchers. Students from developing and emerging countries may also be eligible to apply for a Georg Forster Fellowship, which provides additional opportunities.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships: KAS offers monthly scholarships for international applicants under the age of 30 who have completed a university degree in their home country. To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate above-average academic performance, active involvement in voluntary work benefiting society, and an interest in political issues.

Kurt Hansen Science Scholarships: Funded by the Bayer Foundation, these scholarships are available to students pursuing a career in science education. They offer financial support for those training to become educators in the field of science.

Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowships (IIF) for Developing Countries: Sponsored by the European Commission, these postdoctoral research scholarships are aimed at international students who wish to study in Germany. This program can also offer additional scholarships for students from developing countries.

Mawista Scholarship: This scholarship supports students studying abroad while simultaneously caring for a child. It includes opportunities for those pursuing studies in Germany, providing financial assistance to help manage the unique challenges of studying with parental responsibilities.

Deutschland Stipendium: These merit-based scholarships, amounting to $354.36 per month, are available to highly talented students enrolled at German universities. Nationality and personal income do not affect your chances of being considered for these scholarships.

The Helmholtz Association: This association offers annual fellowships to doctoral and postdoctoral students worldwide. These fellowships provide an excellent opportunity to conduct paid research at a Helmholtz centre in Germany, contributing to scientific advancements in various fields.

These scholarships and fellowships open up exciting prospects for international students, offering financial support and invaluable academic and professional growth opportunities. Explore these options and easily seize the chance to pursue your studies in Germany.

University-specific scholarships to study in Germany

Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS): The University of Bremen in Germany offers exciting opportunities for pre-doctoral, PhD, and postdoctoral students through BIGSSS. This renowned institution provides a conducive environment for studying social sciences, enabling students to pursue their academic goals and contribute to cutting-edge research in the field.

DRD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africans: Students from developing countries in Sub-Saharan Africa who are interested in pursuing a master’s degree in development studies, public administration, or development management can benefit from merit-based scholarships at Ruhr-University Bochum. This program is twinned with UWC in South Africa, fostering a rich exchange of knowledge and experiences.

Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Doctoral Tuition Waivers: The Frankfurt School of Finance and Management offers ten tuition waiver scholarships for doctoral students. These scholarships support students pursuing English-language programs in finance, accounting, mathematics, and business administration. It’s an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers to enhance their expertise in these fields.

FRIAS Cofund Fellowship Programme for International Researchers: Universität Freiburg in Germany provides German scholarships through the FRIAS Cofund Fellowship Programme. This program offers international students the chance to study at a research-level program, immersing themselves in an intellectually stimulating environment and conducting high-quality research.

Hamburg University of Applied Sciences Masters Scholarships: International students enrolled in a master’s program at Hamburg University of Applied Sciences can benefit from scholarships. These scholarships cover various subjects, excluding design, public health, and public management, offering financial support to students pursuing their master’s degrees.

HHL International MSc Scholarship for Effective and Responsible Leadership: HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management offers scholarship opportunities for those interested in studying management at the master’s level. This scholarship aims to support students in developing effective and responsible leadership skills, preparing them for successful careers in the field.

Humboldt University International Research Fellowships: Humboldt University provides research fellowship opportunities for international students pursuing research in various disciplines such as history, anthropology, law, sociology, political science, geography, economics, and area studies. These fellowships enable students to engage in rigorous academic research and contribute to their respective fields.

International Doctoral Positions at Graduate School of East and Southeast European Studies: Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich and Universität Regensburg offer scholarships for research fellows of East and Southeast European Studies at the graduate level. These scholarships provide students with valuable opportunities to delve into interdisciplinary research and gain in-depth knowledge of the region.

International Ph.D. Fellowships at Max Planck Research School for Ultrafast Imaging and Structural Dynamics: Universität Hamburg offers scholarships for international students pursuing a PhD in physics or chemistry at the Max Planck Research School for Ultrafast Imaging and Structural Dynamics. These fellowships support students in conducting cutting-edge research in these exciting fields.

KAAD Scholarships for Developing Countries: KAAD offers scholarships for international students from developing countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. These scholarships enable students to pursue their master’s or PhD studies at a German university. Candidates should possess German-language skills and be of Catholic-Christian denomination.

Kofi Annan MBA Scholarships for Developing Country Students: The European School of Management and Technology (ESMT) in Berlin provides scholarships for up to five international students from developing countries. These scholarships support students in studying a full-time, one-year MBA program, equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge for leadership roles.

Ulm University Scholarships for International Students: Ulm University offers need-based scholarships for international students who are nearing graduation. These scholarships provide one semester’s financial support, helping students complete their studies.

Universität Hamburg Merit Scholarships: Merit scholarships are available for outstanding international students enrolled in any degree level or

subject at Universität Hamburg. These scholarships consider applicants’ academic excellence and financial needs. Recipients are encouraged to actively contribute to the internationalization of the university.

RWTH Aachen University scholarships: RWTH Aachen University provides funding opportunities for both international and home students. These scholarships support students in their academic pursuits at this renowned institution, fostering a vibrant and diverse educational community.

These scholarships offer exceptional opportunities for international students to pursue their academic dreams in Germany. Whether you’re interested in social sciences, finance, management, research, or various other fields, there’s a scholarship program tailored to your interests and goals. Don’t miss out on the chance to study in Germany and broaden your horizons through these esteemed scholarship opportunities.