Are you a Ghanaian student dreaming of pursuing your studies abroad? The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship might be your golden opportunity. For decades, DAAD has been one of the most prestigious international scholarship providers, opening doors for academically strong students from developing countries, including Ghana.
If you're looking to study in Germany for your Master's or PhD on a fully funded program, this article is your complete guide to DAAD scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year.
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is a German organization that funds international academic exchange and education development. It supports over 100,000 students and researchers worldwide each year.
DAAD offers fully funded scholarships to talented and motivated students from developing countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Germany. Their aim is to build future leaders who will return home and contribute to their country's development.
Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)
For professionals from developing countries, including Ghana
Focus: Social sciences, engineering, business, education, health, and more
Duration: 12–24 months (Master's); 3–4 years (PhD)
DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme (Public Policy and Good Governance)
For future leaders in politics, law, and public administration
Master's programs only
Research Grants – Doctoral Programs in Germany
For PhD candidates pursuing individual or structured doctoral programs
In-Country/In-Region Scholarships (In collaboration with WAAS or universities in Ghana or West Africa)
DAAD scholarships are fully funded, covering almost every expense:
✅ Full tuition fees
✅ Monthly stipend (€934/month for Master’s; €1,200/month for PhD)
✅ Travel allowance (to and from Germany)
✅ Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
✅ Accommodation and living expenses
✅ German language course (up to 6 months) before the main course begins
You must:
Be a Ghanaian citizen or resident
Hold a Bachelor’s degree (usually with at least Second Class Upper)
Have at least 2 years of relevant professional experience (for EPOS)
Show academic excellence
Provide a well-structured study or research proposal
Be committed to returning home after your studies
Here’s what you typically need to apply:
DAAD Application Form (online via DAAD Portal)
Motivation letter (1–2 pages) explaining why you want to study in Germany
CV (signed, with academic and professional background)
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of work experience (letter from employer)
Recommendation letter(s) from professors or employers
Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Language proficiency:
English (TOEFL/IELTS) if program is in English
German (Goethe certificate) if required
Copy of passport
Phase
Date Range
Application Opens
August–October 2024
Internal Shortlisting
November–December 2024
Interview (if applicable)
January–February 2025
Final Selection & Results
March–April 2025
Start of Program in Germany
September–October 2025
You can apply to specific DAAD-partnered German universities offering eligible postgraduate courses. Some popular ones include:
University of Bonn
Technical University of Munich
University of Freiburg
Leipzig University
RWTH Aachen University
Each program has its own application procedure and academic requirements. Some may require you to apply both to the university and to DAAD simultaneously.
Find a suitable DAAD program via the scholarship database:
https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/
Check the course-specific requirements (some may require GRE, language scores, or specific background).
Apply to the German university directly (some allow simultaneous application to DAAD).
Register and submit your application on the DAAD portal:
https://portal.daad.de
Upload all required documents before the program’s deadline.
Write a clear and compelling motivation letter showing why Germany, why that course, and how it connects to your goals.
Show how your studies will benefit Ghana and your community.
Be specific in your research proposal or study objectives.
Apply early — well before deadlines.
Join local DAAD info sessions or webinars in Ghana.
DAAD Ghana Office (Goethe Institute Accra)
Visit: https://www.daad-ghana.org
Email: daad@daad-ghana.org
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The DAAD scholarship is one of the most powerful opportunities available to Ghanaian students who want to study abroad. With full financial support and access to world-class education in Germany, you can transform your future and make an impact when you return home.
If you’re eligible and committed, don’t miss the 2025–2026 application cycle. Start preparing early, ask for guidance when needed, and take your first step toward a fully funded education in Europe.
👉 Apply Now: https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/
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