DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026/27 (Fully Funded)

DAAD EPOS Scholarship 

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026/27 offers a life-changing opportunity for professionals from developing countries to pursue advanced education in Germany. This prestigious, fully funded program supports development-oriented postgraduate courses designed to create future leaders who will drive positive change in their home countries. The program aims to support highly qualified local specialists who, when interconnected with international partners, play an important role in the development of their countries. If you’re seeking to enhance your expertise and contribute to sustainable development, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the DAAD EPOS Scholarship.

What is the DAAD EPOS Scholarship?

The DAAD EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) Scholarship is a comprehensive funding program offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Since its launch in 1987, the program has awarded more than 7,000 scholarships to international students, with approximately 50% going to women. The impressive success rate shows that over 90% of scholarship recipients complete their studies and earn their degrees.

This initiative specifically targets highly qualified specialists from developing and emerging countries, equipping them with the knowledge and skills needed to address global challenges when they return home. The program recognizes that interconnected local specialists working with international partners play a crucial role in their countries’ development – creating a future with less poverty, better education, and improved health for all.

Key Benefits of the DAAD EPOS Scholarship

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship offers comprehensive support that covers all aspects of your study experience in Germany:

Benefit	Details
Tuition Coverage	Full coverage of tuition and study-related fees
Monthly Stipend	€992 for Master’s students; €1,300 for doctoral candidates
Health Insurance	Comprehensive health, accident, and personal liability insurance
Travel Allowance	Covers travel expenses to and from Germany
Family Allowance	Additional support for scholars with families (under certain circumstances)
Duration	12 to 42 months depending on the study program

These benefits ensure that scholars can focus entirely on their academic pursuits without financial concerns, maximizing their potential for success and future impact.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Applying for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances of success:

1. Research Available Programs: Review the complete list of EPOS programs for the 2026/27 academic year on the DAAD website.
2. Check Your Eligibility: Verify that you meet the scholarship criteria and come from an eligible country.
3. Prepare Your Documents: Gather all required application materials:
   • Completed application form
   • Curriculum vitae (using Europass template)
   • Letter of motivation linking your studies to development goals
   • Academic certificates and transcripts
   • Proof of English proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.0 or equivalent)
   • Letters of recommendation from university and employer
   • Proof of professional experience (at least two years)
4. Apply Directly to Universities: Submit your application directly to your chosen universities, not to DAAD. You may apply to up to three courses, listing them in order of priority.
5. University Selection: The universities review applications and select candidates to recommend to DAAD.
6. DAAD Portal Application: If recommended, you’ll receive instructions to upload your documents to the DAAD portal.
7. Final Selection: DAAD makes the final scholarship decisions and notifies successful applicants.

Important Tip: Application deadlines vary by program, so check the specific deadlines for each course you’re interested in. Most deadlines for 2026/27 programs fall between July and October 2025.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship, you must meet these essential criteria:

Academic Qualifications

• Educational Background: Hold a Bachelor’s degree (typically a four-year course) in a relevant field
• Academic Excellence: Demonstrate above-average results (top third of your class)

Professional Background

• Work Experience: Have at least two years of relevant professional experience after your Bachelor’s degree
• Current Employment: Work for a public authority, state or private company in a developing country
• Development Focus: Be engaged in planning and executing development-related projects

Personal Requirements

• Development Motivation: Demonstrate motivation related to development goals
• Change Agent Potential: Show commitment to initiating positive change in your personal and professional environment
• Return Commitment: Intend to apply acquired knowledge in your home country

Technical Requirements

• Language Proficiency: Possess adequate English skills (minimum IELTS score of 6.0 bands) or German language skills depending on the program
• Country Eligibility: Be a citizen of an eligible developing or emerging country as defined by DAAD
• Application Completeness: Submit all required documents by the specified deadline

Available Study Programs

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship offers a diverse range of development-focused postgraduate programs. Here are some of the key fields available:

• Environmental Studies and Sustainable Development
• Economic Sciences and Business Administration
• Development Cooperation
• Engineering and Related Sciences
• Regional Planning
• Agricultural and Forestry Sciences
• Mathematics
• Public Health
• Social Sciences and Education
• Media Studies

Each program is carefully designed to address specific development challenges and equip scholars with practical skills relevant to their home countries’ needs.

FAQ: Common Questions About DAAD EPOS Scholarships

Can I work while on the DAAD EPOS Scholarship?

Yes, you are generally allowed to work part-time while on the scholarship, provided it doesn’t interfere with your studies. Check with your university and DAAD for specific guidelines.

Do I need to be accepted into a Master’s program before applying for the scholarship?

No, you don’t need to be accepted into the master’s program before applying for the scholarship. The university will evaluate your eligibility for both the program and the scholarship simultaneously.

Can I apply to multiple programs?

Yes, you can apply for up to three courses. Make sure to list them in order of priority on your application.

Will I need to return to my home country after completing my studies?

The program is designed with the expectation that graduates will return to their home countries to implement their new knowledge. Research shows that over 70% of graduates return to their home countries or regions immediately after completing their studies.

Are there age restrictions for applicants?

There is no upper age limit for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship, but there may be a maximum timeframe between completing your Bachelor’s degree and starting the program.

Is an interview required as part of the application process?

Yes, some DAAD scholarships, including full PhD and PhD Sandwich scholarships, require interviews as part of the selection process.

Success Stories: Impact of DAAD EPOS Scholarships

The DAAD EPOS program has a proven track record of creating positive change through its alumni network. A 2013 survey revealed that more than three-quarters of scholarship recipients found a direct thematic connection between their EPOS studies and their subsequent employment. Many graduates have gone on to hold influential positions in their home countries, working in government ministries, educational institutions, and international organizations.

These success stories illustrate how the knowledge and skills gained through the EPOS program directly translate to real-world impact in developing regions around the globe.

Conclusion: Your Path to Global Impact

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026/27 represents more than just financial support for your studies – it’s an investment in your potential to drive meaningful change. By joining this prestigious program, you’ll gain world-class education, international connections, and practical skills that will empower you to address critical development challenges in your home country.

Take the first step toward this transformative opportunity by exploring the available programs and preparing your application. Your journey to becoming a change agent for sustainable development starts here!

Ready to apply? Visit the official DAAD website to access the complete program brochure and application materials for the 2026/27 cycle.

Sign up for our scholarship alerts to be notified when application deadlines approach. Don’t miss your chance to transform your career and make a lasting impact in your community!