How to get a scholarship in Germany

Germany has long been one of the most attractive options for those who want to get a European education. This is especially true for students from Ukraine, who are increasingly choosing this destination for their bachelor’s, master’s, or even doctoral studies.

But there is a logical question: how to finance all this? This is where scholarships come in handy.

This article provides simple and concise information about the programs available, who can apply, what DAAD is, and how even little-known sources of support can be useful.

Why Germany is a popular destination for study

There are several obvious reasons:

1. High quality of education. Most universities in Germany are ranked among the best in the world.
2. Many programs are taught in English — even if you don’t know German, you have options.
3. Scholarships are available — you don’t have to be a genius, just motivated.
4. Large community of international students, including Ukrainians.
5. And in general, life in Germany is comfortable, safe, and offers plenty of opportunities for personal growth.

It is no surprise that Germany is one of the top destinations for applicants from all over the world.

Is education in Germany really free?

Yes, but there are some nuances. Tuition at most public universities is indeed free — you don’t pay for the education itself. But there is a so-called “semester contribution” (Semesterbeitrag), which can range from 150 to 350 euros per semester.

This is not a tuition fee, but rather an administrative fee that includes transportation, student services, and other support.

Another nuance is the cost of living: rent, food, health insurance, and books. This is why scholarships are necessary, as these expenses can amount to more than €800 per month.

Main types of financial aid

Scholarships in Germany can be divided into several types:

1. Academic scholarships — for academic performance, motivation, and project topic.
2. Social scholarships — if you come from a low-income family or difficult life circumstances.
3. Targeted programs — for women in science, refugees, activists, artists, etc.
4. From the university — sometimes the university itself has its own support program.
5. Foundations and organizations — for example, DAAD, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Erasmus+, etc.

In most cases, the scholarship covers not only tuition but also part or all of the living expenses.

The most well-known scholarship programs

Among the most well-known opportunities for studying abroad is the DAAD program — the German Academic Exchange Service. It is one of the largest and most reliable scholarship resources in Europe. DAAD offers dozens of programs for different levels: from bachelor’s to PhD, as well as for researchers and teachers. Conveniently, the official website has a filter that helps you select a program according to your educational level, specialty, and country of origin. Scholarships usually range from €850 to €1,200 per month, and sometimes additional payments are provided, for example, for travel, insurance, or language courses.

Another powerful tool for international academic mobility is Erasmus+. Although this program is not a traditional scholarship, it provides funding for short-term study or internships in European Union countries. Participants receive funds for travel, accommodation, and daily expenses, making participation in the program accessible to many students.

A separate category of scholarships is formed by programs offered by German political foundations such as the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, Heinrich Böll Stiftung, and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung. They are unique in that they support students with a strong social or research focus. It is important for applicants to have a strong academic record and experience in active community work. In addition to financial support, such programs offer extensive opportunities for networking, conference participation, and professional development.

Little-known but accessible programs

There are smaller but no less important opportunities:

• Hilfswerk Deutschland — assistance for students from crisis regions, including Ukraine.
• Deutschlandstipendium — support from the state and business, aimed at talented students.
• Stipendienlotse.de — a platform with dozens of small programs. There you can find support for specific specialties, such as ecology, medicine, and sociology.

Many of these scholarships are little known, which means less competition.

Who can apply

In general, the following people are eligible:

• High school graduates who want to enroll in a bachelor’s program.
• Students planning to pursue a master’s or PhD degree.
• Young scientists, teachers, artists, journalists.
• Even those who want to take language courses before starting their studies in Germany.

The main thing is to be motivated and have the basic requirements: good grades, a project, language skills (not always), and a clear goal.

How to prepare for application

1. Choose a program. Start with DAAD or Stipendienlotse — they provide a complete overview.
2. Prepare your documents: a motivation letter, CV, translations of diplomas or certificates, language certificate (TestDaF, IELTS, etc.), and sometimes recommendations.
3. The motivation letter is key. It should be personal, clear, and sincere. Explain why you chose this program, how you will use it, and what you will give back to society.
4. Don’t wait for deadlines. Applications are usually submitted 6–12 months before the start of the program.
5. Proofread all texts — mistakes or clichés reduce your chances.

Advice from scholarship recipients / Common mistakes

Scholarship recipients often emphasize that you should not doubt your chances just because you are not “perfect.” Even if you feel that you do not have enough experience or achievements, you should still apply. Many people received funding when they least expected it. It is also important to plan everything in advance — working with documents, translations, recommendations, and bureaucratic procedures takes time, so it is better not to leave anything to the last minute. If you don’t succeed on your first try, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. You can try another program, change your approach, or choose a different country.

Among the typical mistakes made by candidates, the most common is a motivation letter that is too general. Phrases like “I want to study in Europe because it’s cool” don’t impress the committee. Instead, it’s important to clearly explain why this particular program, country, and field of study match your goals. It is also worth paying close attention to the translation of documents — an incorrect or incomplete translation can be a formal reason for rejection. And, of course, deadlines. Ignoring deadlines, inaccuracies or errors in applications are a common reason for rejection, even for very strong candidates.

By the way, if you are also looking for an internship, work experience, or official employment after your studies, you may find it helpful to contact a job search company that has experience working with international students. Don’t ignore these resources — sometimes they open more doors than Google.