Call for Applications: DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2025-26 (Fully Funded) by Germany Government

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is pleased to announce the opening of applications for the EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) Scholarship program for the academic year 2025-26. This prestigious scholarship is fully funded by the German government and aims to support highly qualified international students pursuing Masters, MPhil, PhD, and Doctoral degrees at German state universities.

About DAAD and EPOS Scholarship

The DAAD is the largest funding organization in the world supporting the international exchange of students and scholars. The EPOS program is a flagship initiative under DAAD, designed to offer exceptional students from developing countries the opportunity to undertake postgraduate studies at Germany's top universities. The program is structured to foster professional development in disciplines crucial to the development of their home countries.

Objective

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) facilitates the training of specialists from developing and newly industrialized nations through its postgraduate study programs focused on development. Local professionals with the necessary training who are connected to foreign partners are crucial to the long-term growth of their nations. They offer the best assurance of a brighter future with increased access to healthcare, education, and reduced poverty. 

The scholarships provide international graduates from developing and newly industrialized nations with at least two years of work experience the opportunity to enroll in a postgraduate program or earn a Master's degree at a state or state-recognized German university. In exceptional circumstances, students may be able to pursue a doctorate degree and earn a master's or doctoral degree in Germany.

What the DAAD EPOS Scholarship Covers

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship is renowned for its comprehensive support package, which ensures that recipients can focus entirely on their academic pursuits without financial burden. The scholarship covers:

• Airfare Tickets: Fully funded round-trip airfare from the recipient's home country to Germany.
• Accommodation: Provision of suitable housing arrangements for the duration of the study.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage to ensure well-being throughout the study period.
• Monthly & Family Allowance: A generous monthly stipend to cover living expenses, including additional allowances for accompanying family members.
• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of all tuition and related academic fees.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria to be considered for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship:

1. Nationality: Must be a citizen of a developing country as classified by the OECD DAC list.
2. Academic Background: Hold a Bachelor's degree (typically a four-year course) in an appropriate subject.
3. Professional Experience: Possess at least two years of relevant professional experience.
4. Commitment to Development: Demonstrate a strong motivation to contribute to the development of their home country.

Fields of Study

The EPOS Scholarship supports a wide range of postgraduate courses with development-related focus, including but not limited to:

• Economic Sciences/Business Administration/Political Economics
• Development Cooperation
• Engineering and Related Sciences
• Mathematics
• Regional and Urban Planning
• Agricultural and Forest Sciences
• Environmental Sciences
• Public Health/Medicine
• Social Sciences, Education, and Law
• Media Studies

Application Process

The application process for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship is thorough and requires careful preparation. Interested candidates must follow these steps:

1. Identify Suitable Courses: Review the list of eligible courses and universities available on the DAAD website. Select the program that aligns with your academic and professional goals.
2. Prepare Application Documents: Compile the required documents, which typically include a CV, academic transcripts, proof of professional experience, and a motivation letter.
3. Submit Applications: Apply directly to the chosen course/university through their respective application portals. Each course/university may have specific requirements and deadlines.
4. DAAD Application: After applying to the university, submit the DAAD scholarship application form and additional documents through the DAAD portal.

Selection Process

The selection process for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship is highly competitive and merit-based. It involves several stages:

1. Pre-selection by Universities: The universities conduct an initial screening of applications to shortlist candidates for the DAAD scholarship.
2. DAAD Review: The DAAD reviews the shortlisted applications and assesses the candidates based on academic excellence, professional experience, and relevance of their proposed study to development.
3. Interviews: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews to further evaluate their suitability for the scholarship.

Important Dates

• Application Period: Applications are typically open from August to October 2024, depending on the specific course and university.
• Notification of Results: Successful applicants are usually notified by March 2025.
• Commencement of Studies: Scholarship recipients are expected to commence their studies in Germany in October 2025.

Benefits of Studying in Germany

Germany is renowned for its high-quality education system, cutting-edge research facilities, and vibrant cultural life. By studying in Germany, scholarship recipients will benefit from:

• World-Class Education: Access to excellent academic programs and innovative research opportunities.
• Cultural Diversity: Exposure to a diverse and multicultural environment that fosters global understanding and cooperation.
• Professional Networking: Opportunities to connect with leading academics, researchers, and professionals in their field of study.
• Career Prospects: Enhanced career prospects both in Germany and internationally, with a strong emphasis on employability and practical skills.

How to Apply

For detailed information on the application process, eligibility criteria, and required documents, please visit the official DAAD scholarship database at DAAD Scholarship Database. 

For any inquiries or further assistance, please contact the DAAD office in your home country or the International Office of the respective German university.

Apply now and embark on a transformative educational journey with the DAAD EPOS Scholarship!