Germany is among the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students due to its high-quality education, world-class universities, and affordable tuition fees. To make education even more accessible, various Scholarship for Indian Students in Germany help students cover tuition, living expenses, and other costs.
If you’re an Indian student planning to study in Germany, this guide will provide you with all the details on government, non-government, and university-funded scholarships. We’ll also cover eligibility criteria, application processes, and key tips to maximize your chances of securing a scholarship.
Why Study in Germany?
- World-Class Education: Germany is home to top-ranked universities and cutting-edge research facilities.
- No Tuition Fees: Public universities offer high-quality education with minimal or no tuition fees.
- Strong Job Market: Germany boasts a strong economy with numerous job opportunities, particularly in engineering, IT, and business.
- Cultural Experience: Rich history, diverse culture, and opportunities to travel across Europe.
- International Environment: High percentage of international students, fostering global networking.
- Student Benefits: Affordable living costs and student discounts on travel, public transport, and more.
How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany?
To secure a scholarship in Germany, follow these steps:
- Research Available Scholarships – Identify scholarships based on your degree, university, and eligibility.
- Check Eligibility Requirements – Each scholarship has unique criteria based on academic performance, research, and extracurriculars.
- Prepare Required Documents – Gather academic transcripts, recommendation letters, SOPs, and language proficiency test scores.
- Apply to Universities – Secure admission to a German university before applying for most scholarships.
- Submit Scholarship Applications – Fill out online applications before deadlines. Some scholarships require essays or interviews.
- Await Selection Results – Scholarship committees review applications and shortlist candidates.
- Accept the Scholarship & Prepare for Germany – Once awarded, complete formalities and apply for a student visa.
Benefits of Scholarships in Germany
Germany offers generous scholarships to international students, making higher education highly accessible. These scholarships not only reduce the financial burden but also provide access to world-class education. As a result, studying in Germany becomes both affordable and rewarding for Indian students.
- Reduced Financial Burden – Scholarships cover tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
- Access to Top Universities – Germany is home to prestigious institutions like TU Munich, Heidelberg University, and RWTH Aachen.
- No Tuition Fees at Public Universities – While many public universities charge little to no tuition, scholarships further ease costs.
- Better Career Opportunities – A degree from Germany, combined with international exposure, enhances career prospects.
- Research & Innovation – Germany is a global leader in research, offering scholarships specifically for research-based programs.
Types of Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students
1. Government-Funded Scholarships in Germany
Germany offers multiple government scholarships for Indian students, making studying abroad more affordable.
DAAD Scholarship
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) Scholarship is Germany’s largest government-funded scholarship program. Primarily, it aims to support international students across various academic levels. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, the DAAD offers comprehensive funding opportunities. Moreover, it plays a key role in promoting academic exchange and international cooperation.
What is the DAAD Scholarship?
The DAAD Scholarship provides financial aid to students pursuing full-time degree programs or research in Germany. It covers:
- Monthly stipend (€861 for master’s, €1,200 for PhD)
- Travel allowances
- Health insurance
- Tuition fee coverage (if applicable)
Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Scholarship
- Must be an Indian citizen
- Strong academic record (minimum CGPA of 8.0 or 75%+)
- IELTS or TOEFL scores (minimum IELTS 6.5+ required)
- Proof of admission to a German university
DAAD Scholarship for Bachelors in Germany for Indian Students
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount | Duration |
| DAAD Undergraduate Scholarship | Enrolled in a German public university | €850/month | 1-2 years |
DAAD Scholarship for Masters in Germany for Indian Students
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount | Duration |
| DAAD EPOS Scholarship | Master’s in development studies, engineering, etc. | €861/month + tuition | 1-2 years |
| DAAD Helmut Schmidt Program | Master’s in public policy & governance | €850/month | 1-2 years |
Scholarship Requirements
- Academic transcripts
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letter of Recommendation (LORs)
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS/TOEFL/TestDaF)
- Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
How to Apply for a DAAD Scholarship from India?
- Choose a Program – Visit the official DAAD website and select a course or scholarship program suitable for your field of study.
- Check Eligibility – Carefully read the requirements for academic qualifications, language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and work experience if needed.
- Prepare Your Documents – Common requirements typically include academic transcripts, a CV (preferably in Europass format), a letter of motivation, reference letters, and language certificates. Additionally, applicants may be required to submit further documentation depending on the specific scholarship or program.
- Apply Online via the DAAD Portal – Create an account on the DAAD portal and complete your application form. Upload all documents in the prescribed format.
- Submit to the University (if applicable) – Some programs may require a separate application to the German university alongside the DAAD application.
- Wait for Results – Selection is highly competitive; once applications are reviewed, shortlisted candidates are then notified via email. In some cases, interviews may also be conducted as part of the final selection process.
DAAD Scholarship for Indians: Key Selection Criteria
- Academic Excellence – Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance and research potential, especially in their field of interest.
- Relevant Work Experience – For Master’s and PhD programs, practical experience or research work related to the chosen course is highly valued.
- Well-Written SOP & LORs – Your Statement of Purpose and Letters of Recommendation should clearly align with your academic goals and future plans.
- Language Proficiency – A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent in TestDaF is typically required, depending on the course.
- Extracurricular Activities – Involvement in leadership roles, volunteer work, or social impact projects can strengthen your profile.
When to Apply for the DAAD Scholarship from India?
You should apply for the DAAD Scholarship 6–12 months before your intended course start date. Most programs have deadlines between October and January for the following academic year. Always check the specific program page on the DAAD website for accurate dates and application timelines.
BONUS: List of All DAAD Scholarships for Indians (2025)
| Scholarship Name | Intent | Amount | Duration |
| DAAD EPOS | Development-related master’s | €861/month | 12-24 months |
| DAAD Research Grants | PhD & Postdoc research | €1,200/month | 12-36 months |
| DAAD Short-Term Research Grants | Research stays in Germany | €1,200/month | 1-6 months |
Other Government Scholarships for Indian Students
Erasmus+ Scholarships
The Erasmus+ Program funds master’s students enrolled in Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programs across Europe, including Germany.
Key Highlights –
- Full funding covering tuition, travel, visa, and living expenses.
- Study in 2–3 different European countries under a single program.
- Offers a Joint Master’s Degree from partner universities.
Applications typically open October to January each year, for courses starting in September.
Deutschlandstipendium
The Deutschlandstipendium is a merit-based scholarship program that offers financial support to students pursuing higher education in Germany. It is awarded regardless of the student’s nationality and aims to foster excellence in education.
Key Highlights –
- €300 per month to support living expenses.
- Financial support for up to 2 years, depending on academic progress.
- In some cases, additional opportunities for mentoring, internships, and networking.
Applications usually open in the spring or early summer for the upcoming academic year. Check specific university websites for deadlines and procedures.
2. Non-Government Scholarships
These scholarships are offered by foundations, organizations, and universities.
| Name of the Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount |
| Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship | Master’s & PhD students in STEM & social sciences | Monthly stipend + travel & research grants |
| Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship | Master’s & PhD students with leadership potential | €850/month (Master’s) & €1,200/month (PhD) |
| Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship | Bachelor’s & Master’s students in Germany | €744/month + health insurance |
University-Funded Scholarships in Germany
Numerous universities in Germany offer institutional scholarships specifically for Indian students. In addition to national programs like DAAD, these university-funded options provide valuable financial support for international education.
| University | Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount |
| Jacobs University | Merit-based Scholarship | High-achieving students | Partial tuition waiver |
| RWTH Aachen | AICES Scholarship | Master’s in Computational Engineering | Covers tuition & living costs |
| Technical University Munich | TU Munich Scholarships | Strong academic and research background | Monthly stipend, research and project grants |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | Goethe University Frankfurt Scholarships | Excellent academic record, non-German students | Monthly stipend, research support |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Scholarship for Indian Students in Germany
1. Can Indian students get a scholarship in Germany?
Yes, Indian students can apply for a range of scholarships in Germany. Notably, options include government, non-government, and university-funded programs such as DAAD, Erasmus+, Deutschlandstipendium, and more.
2. How much CGPA/ Percentage is required for the DAAD scholarship?
A minimum CGPA of 8.0 (or 75% – 80% marks) in the last degree is recommended to increase the chances of securing a DAAD scholarship. However, requirements vary based on the program and university.
3. Is IELTS required for Germany?
Yes, for most English-taught programs, students need an IELTS score of 6.5 or above. Some universities may also accept TOEFL (minimum 90) or TestDaF (for German-taught programs).
4. Is it hard to get a DAAD scholarship for Indian students?
Yes, the DAAD Scholarship is highly competitive. However, a strong academic background, along with relevant research experience and well-crafted SOP and LORs, significantly increases your chances of success.
5. Can Indian students study in Germany without a scholarship?
Yes, Indian students can study in Germany without a scholarship, as most public universities have no tuition fees. However, students must cover living expenses (around €850-€1,200 per month), which can be managed through part-time jobs and student loans.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Germany offers a wealth of scholarship opportunities for Indian students, from government-funded programs like DAAD to university-specific awards. These scholarships not only offer financial support and academic excellence but also open doors to experiencing Germany’s vibrant culture. With proper preparation and commitment, Indian students can truly thrive abroad.
