EPOS Scholarship 2026: Complete Guide to DAAD’s Development-Related Postgraduate Program

EPOS Scholarship 2026: Complete Guide to DAAD’s Development-Related Postgraduate Program

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) offers a prestigious fully-funded opportunity for professionals from developing and newly industrialized countries to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany. This comprehensive scholarship program aims to cultivate specialists who will contribute to sustainable development in their home countries. If you’re seeking to enhance your expertise while gaining international experience, the EPOS Scholarship for the 2026-2027 academic year might be your pathway to academic and professional advancement.

What is the DAAD EPOS Scholarship?

The Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) program is a specialized scholarship initiative offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, EPOS is designed specifically to support qualified professionals from developing and newly industrialized countries who aim to contribute to economic and social development in their regions.

Since its inception in 1987, the EPOS program has supported over 7,000 scholars, with approximately 50% of scholarships awarded to women. The program’s success is evidenced by the fact that more than 70% of graduates return immediately to their home countries or regions after completing their studies, applying their knowledge to address development challenges.

What sets EPOS apart from other scholarship programs is its specific focus on development-related fields and its requirement for professional experience, ensuring that participants can immediately apply their enhanced skills to real-world development issues upon returning home.

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Eligible Fields of Study

The EPOS Scholarship covers a wide range of development-related fields, encompassing various disciplines that contribute to sustainable development. The program supports both master’s and doctoral studies in the following areas:

• Economic Sciences, Business Administration, and Political Economics
• Development Cooperation
• Engineering and Related Sciences
• Regional and Urban Planning
• Environmental Sciences (Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Environmental Management)
• Public Health, Medicine, and Medical Education
• Social Sciences, Education, and Law
• Media Studies

Within these broad categories, DAAD collaborates with select German universities to offer specific postgraduate programs. Some of the notable programs available under the EPOS Scholarship for 2026-2027 include:

• Master’s Program in International and Development Economics (MIDE)
• Small Enterprise Promotion and Training (SEPT) MBA Program
• Master’s in Intellectual Property and Competition Law
• International Education Management (INEMA)
• Sustainable Development Management
• Master’s in Sustainable Energy and Development (SEDev)
• Master of WASTE (Resource Management and Waste Disposal)
• Doctoral Programs at select universities, including the University of Bonn

For a complete and up-to-date list of all available programs, interested applicants should consult the official DAAD EPOS brochure for 2026-2027, which details all participating universities and their specific course offerings.

EPOS Scholarship Benefits

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship is fully funded, covering almost all expenses related to studying in Germany. This comprehensive financial support allows scholars to focus entirely on their academic pursuits without financial worries. The scholarship benefits include:

Benefit	Details
Monthly Stipend	€934 for master’s students and €1,200-€1,300 for doctoral candidates
Travel Allowance	Round-trip travel expenses between home country and Germany
Tuition and Fees	Full coverage of university tuition and administrative fees
Health Insurance	Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage
Housing Support	Monthly rent subsidy and one-time settlement allowance
Family Support	Additional allowances for accompanying family members (under certain conditions)
Language Courses	German language courses prior to the start of the academic program (if necessary)
Study and Research Allowance	Annual research grant for books, attendance at conferences, etc.

Additionally, EPOS scholars become part of a vast international network of DAAD alumni, which offers continued support, networking opportunities, and potential collaborations long after the scholarship period has ended. This network is an invaluable resource for professional development and international cooperation.

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Eligibility Requirements

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship targets specific candidates with particular academic qualifications and professional experience. To be eligible for this scholarship program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Nationality

Applicants must be nationals of a developing or newly industrialized country. DAAD maintains a list of eligible countries that typically includes nations from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and parts of Eastern Europe. The eligibility of specific countries may vary by program, so applicants should verify their country’s eligibility in the official program documentation.

Academic Qualifications

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year course) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant field of study. The academic record should be above average, typically placing them in the top third of their class. For doctoral programs, a master’s degree is required.

Professional Experience

A minimum of two years of relevant professional experience after obtaining the first degree is mandatory. This requirement distinguishes EPOS from many other scholarship programs and ensures that candidates have practical insights into development challenges in their fields.

Development-Related Motivation

Applicants must demonstrate a clear development-related motivation. They should articulate how they plan to contribute to addressing development challenges in their home countries after completing their studies in Germany. This typically involves showing a commitment to taking on social responsibility and initiating change in their professional environments.

Language Proficiency

Language requirements vary depending on the program of study:

• For programs taught in German: Applicants must demonstrate a minimum German language level of B1 at the time of application. Before starting the actual academic program, they must successfully pass the DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 language examination. A six-month preparatory German language course in Germany is typically included in the scholarship.
• For programs taught in English: Applicants must meet the English language requirements specified by their chosen program, typically equivalent to TOEFL iBT 80 or IELTS 6.0.

Age Limit

While there is no strict age limit for the EPOS Scholarship, the program is designed for early to mid-career professionals. Candidates are typically expected to be able to contribute to development efforts for many years after completing their studies.

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Application Process

The application process for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship is detailed and requires careful preparation. Applications must be submitted directly to the respective university program, not to DAAD headquarters. Each program may have specific additional requirements and deadlines, so it’s crucial to check the individual program details in the EPOS brochure.

Application Timeline

Applications for programs starting in the academic year 2026-2027 typically open in 2025. Deadlines vary by program but generally fall between August and October 2025. For example:

• Master’s Program for International and Development Economics: Deadline typically around August 31, 2025
• Doctoral Program at University of Bonn: Deadline typically around August 31, 2025
• Small Enterprise Promotion and Training (SEPT) MBA: Deadline typically around October 1, 2025

It’s essential to plan well in advance, as gathering all required documents, securing recommendations, and preparing a compelling application can take several months.

Required Documents

While specific requirements may vary by program, the following documents are typically required for EPOS applications:

1. DAAD Application Form: The official application form must be completed accurately and thoroughly.
2. Curriculum Vitae: A detailed CV in the Europass format, providing comprehensive information about educational background and professional experience without any unexplained gaps.
3. Letter of Motivation: A compelling statement (usually limited to two pages) explaining the applicant’s personal and professional background, academic interests, and future plans. This document should clearly articulate the connection between the chosen program and development-related goals.
4. Academic Degrees and Transcripts: Certified copies of all academic degrees and transcripts. If these documents are not in English or German, certified translations must be provided.
5. Certificates of Employment: Documentation proving at least two years of relevant professional experience, including details of responsibilities and achievements.
6. Recommendation Letters: Academic and professional recommendations on letterhead with signature and official stamp. These should come from professors and employers familiar with the applicant’s qualifications.
7. Language Certificates: Proof of language proficiency in either German or English, depending on the program requirements.
8. Research Proposal or Study Plan: For doctoral programs, a detailed research proposal is required. For master’s programs, a study plan or statement of research interests may be requested.
9. Additional Program-Specific Documents: Some programs may require additional documents such as GRE scores, writing samples, or field-specific certifications.

All documents must be submitted in either English or German. If original documents are in another language, certified translations are required.

Application Submission

Applications must be submitted directly to the respective university program, following their specific submission guidelines. Most programs accept applications through their online portals, though some may still require hard copies of certain documents to be mailed.

Applicants can apply for up to three different EPOS programs simultaneously. If applying to multiple programs, candidates must list them in order of priority in the DAAD application form and maintain the same priority ranking across all applications.

Selection Process

The selection process for EPOS Scholarships is rigorous and competitive. After the application deadline, the process typically follows these stages:

1. Initial Screening: Universities review applications to ensure they meet all basic eligibility requirements.
2. Academic Evaluation: Qualified applications are evaluated based on academic merit, relevance of prior experience, and quality of the study/research plan.
3. Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, conducted either in person, via telephone, or through video conferencing.
4. University Selection: Each participating university selects and nominates candidates for the DAAD scholarships.
5. DAAD Approval: DAAD reviews the university nominations and makes the final selection of scholarship recipients.
6. Notification: Results are typically announced between December and February for programs starting in the following academic year.

Selection committees evaluate applications based on academic achievement, professional experience, the quality and relevance of the motivation letter or research proposal, and the applicant’s potential to contribute to development in their home country.

Tips for a Successful EPOS Scholarship Application

1. Start Early

The EPOS application process is thorough and time-consuming. Begin preparing your application at least 6-8 months before the deadline. This gives you ample time to research programs, gather required documents, secure recommendations, and craft compelling application materials.

2. Choose the Right Program

Research available programs thoroughly to find those that best match your academic background, professional experience, and career goals. Consider factors such as the program’s content, teaching methods, duration, and the university’s expertise in your field of interest. Select programs where you can clearly demonstrate the relevance of your profile and how the program will enhance your ability to contribute to development in your home country.

3. Emphasize Development Relevance

The EPOS Scholarship specifically targets development-related studies. Your application should clearly articulate:

• The development challenges you’ve encountered in your professional experience
• How the specific program will equip you with knowledge and skills to address these challenges
• Your concrete plans for applying your education to development work upon returning home
• The broader impact your enhanced expertise could have on your institution, sector, or country

4. Highlight Professional Experience

Unlike many scholarships that primarily focus on academic achievement, EPOS places significant emphasis on relevant professional experience. Detail your work experience, highlighting responsibilities, achievements, and any involvement in development-related projects or initiatives. Use concrete examples to demonstrate your practical insights into development challenges and your potential to implement solutions.

5. Craft a Compelling Motivation Letter

Your motivation letter is a crucial component of your application. Make it clear, concise, and compelling, addressing:

• Your personal and professional background
• Why you’ve chosen this specific program and university
• How the program aligns with your career goals
• Your concrete plans for applying your knowledge after completing the program
• Your commitment to development work and social responsibility

Avoid generic statements and instead provide specific examples and plans that demonstrate your genuine commitment to development.

6. Ensure Document Quality

Pay careful attention to the quality and presentation of all application documents:

• Follow all formatting guidelines precisely
• Ensure translations of documents are certified
• Proofread all materials thoroughly for errors
• Present your CV clearly and professionally, using the required Europass format
• Ensure recommendation letters are on official letterhead with appropriate signatures and stamps

7. Prepare for Potential Interviews

If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Prepare by:

• Reviewing your application materials thoroughly
• Researching the program and university in depth
• Practicing articulating your development-related goals
• Preparing examples of how you’ve addressed development challenges in your work
• Being ready to discuss current development issues in your field and country

Life in Germany as an EPOS Scholar

Being awarded an EPOS Scholarship offers not only academic opportunities but also the chance to experience life in Germany, a country known for its high quality of education, innovation, and cultural richness.

Academic Experience

EPOS scholars benefit from Germany’s excellent higher education system, characterized by:

• High-Quality Teaching: Courses are taught by experts in the field, many with extensive international and practical experience.
• Practice-Oriented Approach: Many programs include practical components such as projects, case studies, and field trips to complement theoretical knowledge.
• Advanced Research Facilities: Universities offer state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and research centers.
• International Environment: Students have the opportunity to learn alongside peers from around the world, enriching the educational experience through diverse perspectives.

Cultural Integration and Support

DAAD and participating universities offer various forms of support to help international students integrate into life in Germany:

• Orientation Programs: Introduction to the university, city, and German culture.
• Language Support: German language courses to facilitate daily communication and cultural integration.
• Cultural Events: Organized activities to help international students experience German culture and build networks.
• International Offices: Dedicated support services for international students, assisting with practical matters such as accommodation, health insurance, and residency permits.

Networking and Professional Development

Beyond formal education, EPOS scholars have opportunities for professional growth through:

• DAAD Alumni Network: Access to a global community of professionals and academics.
• Conferences and Seminars: Opportunities to present research and connect with experts in the field.
• Industry Connections: Many programs facilitate interactions with relevant industries and organizations.
• Research Collaborations: Possibilities to engage in international research projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I apply for an EPOS Scholarship if I don’t have exactly two years of work experience?

The minimum requirement is two years of relevant professional experience after completing your first degree. Applications with less experience typically won’t be considered. However, if you have slightly less than two years but will complete the two-year requirement before the program starts, you might be eligible, though this depends on the specific program’s policies.

2. Do I need to speak German to apply for an EPOS Scholarship?

This depends on the language of instruction of your chosen program. For programs taught in German, you need at least B1 level German proficiency when applying and must achieve DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 level before beginning your studies. For programs taught in English, you typically need to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS, without German language requirements. However, basic German skills are always beneficial for daily life in Germany.

3. Can I bring my family with me to Germany on an EPOS Scholarship?

Yes, EPOS scholarship holders can bring their spouse and children to Germany. Under certain conditions, the DAAD provides additional monthly allowances for accompanying family members. However, you’ll need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support your family and arrange suitable accommodation. Family members typically need to apply for their own visas and residence permits.

4. What happens after I complete my studies under the EPOS Scholarship?

The expectation is that EPOS graduates return to their home countries to apply their knowledge and contribute to development. DAAD research shows that over 70% of EPOS alumni return immediately to their home countries or regions after completing their studies. Many work in positions where they directly apply their acquired knowledge to development-related issues. The DAAD Alumni network offers continued support for professional development and international collaboration.

5. Can I work part-time while studying in Germany on an EPOS Scholarship?

International students in Germany, including scholarship holders, are permitted to work part-time (up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year) alongside their studies. However, EPOS programs are often intensive, leaving limited time for additional work. Additionally, the scholarship provides sufficient financial support to cover living expenses, reducing the need for supplementary income. Always check with DAAD and your university regarding any specific restrictions for scholarship holders.

6. What are my chances of receiving the EPOS Scholarship?

The EPOS Scholarship is highly competitive, with many well-qualified applicants applying each year. Selection is based on academic excellence, relevant professional experience, quality of the motivation or research proposal, and the applicant’s development-related motivation. While definitive acceptance rates aren’t published, your chances improve significantly if you have an outstanding academic record, substantial relevant work experience, strong recommendations, and a compelling case for how your studies will contribute to development in your home country.

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Conclusion

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship represents a significant opportunity for professionals from developing and newly industrialized countries to enhance their expertise and contribute to sustainable development in their home regions. By providing comprehensive financial support for studies at renowned German universities, the program facilitates both academic advancement and practical application of knowledge to address real-world development challenges.

If you’re passionate about making a difference in development-related fields and meet the eligibility criteria, the EPOS Scholarship could be your pathway to building the necessary skills and networks. The application process requires thorough preparation and attention to detail, but the rewards—both personal and professional—make it well worth the effort.

For the most current and detailed information about the EPOS Scholarship for 2026-2027, including specific program offerings, deadlines, and application requirements, always refer to the official DAAD website and the latest EPOS brochure. Start your preparation early, craft a compelling application that highlights your development-related experience and goals, and take the first step toward an enriching educational journey in Germany.