For students and young professionals across the Global South, the DAAD EPOS Scholarship is one of the most reliable and respected fully funded opportunities in the world. Funded by the German Federal Government, this program supports outstanding individuals who are committed to development, policy change, public service, environmental protection, economic growth, and social impact.
Every year, thousands of applicants get a chance to pursue a Master’s degree at top public universities in Germany without paying tuition fees and while receiving a monthly stipend that covers all living expenses. If you are passionate about contributing to sustainable development in your home country, the DAAD EPOS program is specifically designed for candidates like you.
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What Makes DAAD EPOS Unique?
The DAAD EPOS program focuses on applicants from developing countries who already have work experience and want to advance their careers in development-related fields. “EPOS” stands for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses, meaning all eligible programs must directly support growth and progress in areas such as governance, economy, health, climate action, infrastructure, and social systems.
Unlike many scholarships that accept only university graduates with limited experience, DAAD EPOS prefers applicants who have already been working in their fields for at least two years. This makes the program ideal for young professionals who want to take the next step in their careers and return home with improved skills and leadership capacity.
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What the Scholarship Covers
Germany is one of the most affordable study destinations in Europe, and the DAAD EPOS Scholarship makes the experience even more accessible. Successful applicants receive:
• Monthly stipend of €934 for Master’s students
• Full tuition coverage (most German universities have no tuition fees at all)
• Travel allowance to and from Germany
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
• Study and research allowance
• Accommodation support (in some cases)
• Preparatory German language classes (2–6 months)
• Family allowance (for some cases)
The scholarship is generous enough that recipients can live comfortably, study without financial stress, and focus fully on academic and research goals.
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Fields of Study Covered
DAAD EPOS covers over 40 development-related Master’s programs, including:
• Public Policy & Governance
• Development Economics
• Public Health
• Water Engineering
• Sustainable Agriculture
• Environmental Management
• Urban Planning
• Natural Resource Management
• Education Planning
• Renewable Energy & Energy Transition
• Peace, Conflict & International Security
• Social Protection
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Engineering for Development
All programs are directly connected to social and economic progress in developing countries, making this one of the most targeted and practical scholarships available.
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Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for DAAD EPOS 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum second class upper or equivalent).
2. Have at least two years of relevant professional experience after graduation.
3. Work in a field related to the chosen course: NGOs, public institutions, private sector, research, international organizations, etc.
4. Be a citizen of an eligible developing country.
5. Demonstrate strong commitment to development and public service.
6. Provide proof of excellent academic performance.
7. Meet the language requirements (English or German depending on the program).
Being able to show a clear development-related career path is a major advantage. EPOS selectors want applicants who will return home and produce real impact.
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How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Each university has its own deadlines, but the general process is:
- Choose an Eligible Postgraduate Program
Visit the DAAD EPOS course list and identify programs aligned with your career.
- Prepare Your Documents
Typical requirements include:
• Motivation letter
• CV (in Europass format)
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Proof of work experience
• Employer recommendation
• Language certificates
• Research or study plan
• Passport copy
- Submit Applications to the University
You apply directly to the university, not DAAD.
Some programs require online portals, others require mailing documents.
- Wait for University Selection
Shortlisted students are forwarded to DAAD for final approval.
- Receive Final Decision
If approved, you will receive your official scholarship award letter and start the visa process.
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Tips for a Strong DAAD Application
• Show development impact: Demonstrate how your work has contributed to national or community improvement.
• Be specific: Explain clearly how the course links to your long-term goals.
• Connect your work experience to the program: This is one of the biggest selection criteria.
• Strong motivation letter: Be authentic, define your goals, and show long-term commitment.
• Mention national development priorities: Align your goals with your country’s development plans, SDGs, or AU Agenda 2063.
• Choose courses wisely: Pick programs that match your background and future goals.
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Why the DAAD EPOS Scholarship Matters
Germany prioritizes capacity building in developing countries. The goal is to support professionals who return home with new expertise, build institutions, influence policy, create jobs, and lead sustainable development projects.
The scholarship is not just about studying abroad, it’s about boosting the Global South’s leadership pipeline.
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