DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) Scholarships 2026-27 in Germany

The DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) Scholarships support professionals from developing and newly industrialised countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany. Through development-focused master’s and doctoral programmes, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) aims to strengthen local expertise and build sustainable solutions to global development challenges.

By training skilled professionals who remain connected to international academic and professional networks, the programme contributes to long-term social and economic development in scholars’ home countries, particularly in areas such as education, health, governance, and sustainable growth.

About the Scholarship

The scholarship enables qualified graduates from a wide range of academic disciplines to pursue a postgraduate or master’s degree, and in exceptional cases a doctoral degree, at state or state-recognised universities in Germany. Candidates are expected to return to their home countries after completion and apply their knowledge in development-related fields.

Applicants must already have relevant professional experience, ensuring that academic learning is closely linked to real-world impact.

Application Deadline

Deadlines vary depending on the chosen study programme and university. Applicants are advised to check individual course deadlines carefully.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a graduate from an eligible developing or newly industrialised country
• Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (usually a four-year programme)
• Have at least two years of professional experience after graduation
• Demonstrate strong academic performance
• Show clear motivation for development-oriented work
• Be willing to contribute to social and institutional change after completing the programme

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Duration of Funding

• 12 to 42 months, depending on the selected study programme

Scholarship Benefits

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Monthly stipend of €992 for master’s degree holders
• Monthly stipend of €1,300 for doctoral candidates (€1,400 from February 2026)
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
• Travel allowance (unless covered by another funding source)

Additional benefits may include:

• Monthly rent subsidy
• Monthly allowance for accompanying family members (where applicable)

Selection Criteria

Successful candidates typically demonstrate:

• Strong academic qualifications
• Relevant professional experience aligned with development goals
• Motivation to apply their education to social and economic development
• Leadership potential and commitment to positive change in their communities

How to Apply for the DAAD EPOS Scholarships

1. Select up to three EPOS-listed programmes
2. Apply directly to each university, not DAAD
3. Clearly indicate that you are applying for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship
4. Submit all required documents before the programme-specific deadline
5. Shortlisted candidates are nominated by universities to the DAAD
6. DAAD makes the final scholarship decision

APPLY FOR THE DAAD EPOS SCHOLARSHIPS