KAAD Scholarship 2026: Fully Funded Master’s and PhD in Germany

Applications are now open for the KAAD Scholarship 2026 in Germany. This fully funded postgraduate scholarship supports international students who want to pursue a Master’s degree, PhD, or short-term postdoctoral research at a German university.

The program is funded by Katholischer Akademischer Ausländer-Dienst (KAAD), the scholarship organisation of the Catholic Church in Germany. It is designed for academically strong graduates from developing and emerging countries who are committed to contributing to the development of their home countries.

Below you’ll learn what the KAAD Scholarship 2026 covers, who is eligible to apply, the documents you need, and how the application process works.

About the KAAD Scholarship 2026 in Germany

The KAAD Scholarship is one of the major scholarship programs of the Catholic Church in Germany. It supports postgraduate students and researchers from Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and parts of Eastern and Southeastern Europe.

The program focuses on:

• Academic excellence
• Social and religious engagement
• Long-term development impact in the scholar’s home country

KAAD works closely with Catholic partner committees and alumni networks in eligible countries. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies and contribute to national development. If a scholar does not return, the scholarship may be converted into a loan.

In addition to financial support, KAAD offers spiritual guidance, networking opportunities, and leadership development.

Also Apply: UNIV’R Master’s Scholarship Programme 2026 (Fully Funded Study in France for Refugee Students)

Benefits of the KAAD Scholarship 2026

The KAAD Scholarship is fully funded. Selected scholars receive:

• Full financial support for living expenses
• Accommodation support
• Health insurance coverage
• Funding for German language training (up to 6 months before studies begin)
• Access to German universities and research institutions
• Participation in seminars, networking events, and academic programs
• Ongoing personal and spiritual support

The scholarship is highly competitive and awarded to candidates with strong academic and leadership potential.

Eligibility Requirements for KAAD Scholarship 2026

To qualify for the KAAD Scholarship 2026 in Germany, applicants must:

• Come from a developing or emerging country in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, etc.
• Currently live in their home country
• Hold a completed university degree
• Have relevant professional experience
• Be applying for: A Master’s degree in Germany, a PhD program in Germany, or a short-term postdoctoral research stay (2–6 months for university lecturers)
• Be willing to return to their home country after completing their studies
• Have German language skills before starting the academic program (KAAD can sponsor a preparatory language course)
• Be a Catholic Christian or belong to another Christian denomination

Applicants from other religions may apply if recommended by Catholic partners and committed to interreligious dialogue.

Documents Required for KAAD Scholarship 2026

While document requirements may vary slightly by country, applicants for the KAAD Scholarship 2026 should generally prepare:

• Completed the KAAD application form
• Academic certificates and transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
• Proof of professional experience
• Letters of recommendation
• Proof of German language proficiency (if available)
• Proof of application or admission to a German university (if available)

Applicants should confirm specific requirements with the KAAD partner committee in their home country.

How to Apply for KAAD Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)

The KAAD Scholarship 2026 application process is handled through partner committees in your home country.

Here is the typical process:

1. Confirm your eligibility

Review the academic, regional, and religious criteria carefully.

2. Contact the KAAD partner committee in your country

This step is essential. They provide local guidance and deadlines.

3. Prepare your documents

Write a clear motivation letter and, if required, a solid research proposal.

4. Submit your application through the partner committee

Follow all instructions provided.

5. Attend interviews if shortlisted

Some candidates may be invited for interviews

Timelines may vary slightly depending on your country’s partner committee.

Also Apply: Heydar Aliyev International Education Grant Program in Azerbaijan (Fully Funded)

Deadline for KAAD Scholarship 2026

The official deadline for the KAAD Scholarship 2026 in Germany is:

December 31, 2026

However, some partner committees may have earlier internal deadlines. Applicants should confirm timelines locally to avoid missing important dates.

Apply for the KAAD Scholarship 2026 in Germany