20+ Scholarships for Undergraduates in German for 2025/2026 Intakes

Germany has emerged as a premier destination for international students seeking high-quality education with minimal to no tuition costs. The country’s commitment to educational excellence and support for international students makes it an attractive option for undergraduate studies. Scholarships for Undergraduates in Germany significantly reduce living expenses, making education in one of Europe’s top destinations financially accessible to international students. This comprehensive topic explores the diverse scholarship opportunities available to undergraduate students looking to pursue their academic dreams in Germany.

Are There Scholarships for Undergraduate Students in Germany?

Absolutely! Although many scholarships are targeted at graduate or doctoral students, several programs are open to undergraduate international students. Whether you’re enrolling in an German-taught or English-taught bachelor’s program, there are funding opportunities available.

Types of Scholarships for Undergraduates in Germany

Whether government-backed or university-led, scholarships for undergraduates in Germany are available through three primary sources: public funding, university initiatives, and private foundations.

There are three main types of German bachelor scholarships:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships
2. University-Specific Scholarships
3. Non-Governmental Scholarships

1. Government-Funded Scholarships

Here are some of the government-funded scholarships for International students to study in Germany

I. Deutschlandstipendium

• Overview: A merit-based scholarship providing financial support to high-achieving students.
• Amount: €300 per month.
• Duration: Initially awarded for two semesters; can be extended.
• Eligibility: Open to both domestic and international students enrolled in German universities.
• Application: Students apply directly through their universities.

II. DAAD Scholarships

• Overview: The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for various study levels, including limited options for undergraduates.
• Notable Program: DAAD-WISE (Working Internships in Science and Engineering) for Indian students.
• Amount: €861 per month plus travel and insurance allowances.
• Duration: 2-3 months.
• Eligibility: Indian students enrolled in Indian institutions in fields like engineering, mathematics, and natural sciences.

2. University-Specific Scholarships

Many institutions provide exclusive scholarships for undergraduates in Germany to help top-performing international students reduce living costs while studying. Examples include:

• RWTH Aachen University: Offers the RWTH Education Fund for outstanding students.
• University of Heidelberg: Provides various scholarships for international students based on merit and need.
• Technical University of Munich (TUM): Offers scholarships for international students, including the TUM Global & Alumni Office scholarships.

3. Non-Governmental Scholarships

Here are the Non-Governmental Scholarships for International Students pursuing undergraduate studies in Germany.

I. Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes

• Overview: Germany’s largest and most prestigious scholarship foundation.
• Support: Provides financial and academic support to exceptionally talented students.
• Eligibility: Highly competitive; less than 0.5% of German students are awarded.
• Application: Candidates are usually nominated by their schools or universities.

II. Political and Religious Foundations

Several foundations affiliated with political parties or religious organizations offer scholarships:

• Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS): Supports students with a strong interest in politics.
• Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES): Focuses on students committed to social democracy.
• Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung: Supports students with a focus on environmental issues and sustainability.
• Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung: Aims at students engaged in social justice and political activism.

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Government and Organization-Funded Scholarships in Germany

Among all options, government-funded scholarships for undergraduates in Germany like the Deutschlandstipendium and DAAD-WISE program offer consistent and merit-based support.

1. DAAD Scholarship Programs (Undergraduate level: limited, e.g., WISE Program)

2. Expatrio Scholarship

3. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

4. Deutschlandstipendium National Scholarship Program

5. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship

6. Erasmus+ Scholarship Programs

7. Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships

8. StipendiumPlus

9. Bayer Foundation Fellowships

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Scholarships Offered by German Universities

Many institutions provide exclusive scholarships for undergraduates in Germany to help top-performing international students reduce living costs while studying

10. Humboldt Research Fellowship

11. TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship

12. Heidelberg University HAUS Scholarships

13. University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships

Federal German State-Specific Scholarships

Germany is a federal republic consisting of 16 states (Bundesländer), many of which run their own scholarship programs to promote higher education and attract talented students, both domestic and international. These state-specific scholarships often cater to students enrolled in universities within that particular federal state and are either merit-based, need-based, or focused on promoting mobility and innovation.

14. Baden-Württemberg Stiftung

15. Bavaria – Max Weber Program

16. Bavaria – Marianne-Plehn-Program

17. The Lower Saxony Scholarship (Niedersachsenstipendium)

18. Berlin – Elsa Neumann Scholarship

MBA Scholarships for International Students in Germany

Though MBA programs are postgraduate, many undergrad students exploring future options start with foundational scholarships for undergraduates in Germany.

19. ESMT MBA Scholarships

20. HHL Leipzig Scholarships

21. WHU Otto Beisheim Scholarships

22. Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Scholarships

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General Scholarship Application Requirements

Most scholarships for undergraduates in Germany have a standard list of requirements including academic transcripts, motivation letters, and language proficiency.

1. Excellent academic credentials
2. Proof of German language proficiency (for German-taught programs)
3. Standardized test scores (if applicable)
4. Motivation letter
5. Letters of recommendation
6. Proof of financial need (for need-based scholarships)

Application Timeline

• Typical Application Window: 12-18 months before intended start of studies
• DAAD Scholarship Applications: Usually open September-November for the following academic year
• University-Specific Scholarships: Varying deadlines (typically 6-12 months in advance)

Scholarships Acceptance Rate

With some scholarships for undergraduates in Germany offering over 40% acceptance, your chances improve significantly if you apply early and to multiple programs.

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Cost Comparison: Studying in Germany With vs. Without Scholarships

Germany already offers tuition-free education at most public universities, but the real financial challenge for students is covering living expenses. Here’s a clear comparison of costs for undergraduate students with and without scholarships:

A scholarship like the Heinrich Böll Stiftung (€934/month) or Deutschlandstipendium (€300/month) can reduce your annual costs by up to 70%

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Top German States by Number of Scholarships Awarded

Some German states are more generous in terms of funding. Some states offer more Scholarships for Undergraduates in Germany than others, with regions like Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia leading in financial aid opportunities. Below is a table showing regional scholarship availability and notable programs:

Scholarships in Germany 2025–26: Application Deadlines

When planning to apply for Germany bachelor scholarships, timing is everything. Most of the bachelor’s scholarships in Germany follow an annual or biannual application cycle, and deadlines can vary significantly depending on the provider whether it’s a German university scholarship, a private foundation, or a government agency.

Scholarship Deadlines for 2025–26 Intake

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Top Scholarships by Indian Government for Undergraduates in Germany

The Indian government offers multiple scholarships and financial assistance programs for Indian students who wish to pursue bachelor’s degrees in Germany. These scholarships are designed to promote academic excellence, support economically disadvantaged students, and encourage international education.

1. National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)

2. JN Tata Endowment for the Higher Education of Indians

Though not fully government-funded, this is a trust-backed and long-running national scholarship endorsed by leading Indian institutions.

3. Inlaks Shivdasani Foundation Scholarship

4. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

5. KC Mahindra Scholarships for Education Abroad

6. Narotam Sekhsaria Foundation Scholarship

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How to Apply for Scholarships in Germany for Undergraduates

Here is the Step-by-Step Process:

1. Shortlist the scholarships you are eligible for
2. Prepare your documents (academic transcripts, SOP, LORs, language certificates)
3. Check deadlines (some are early – up to 6-9 months before the academic year starts)
4. Apply online or through the university/organization’s portal
5. Appear for interviews or additional assessments (if required)
6. Wait for the result – usually announced 2-3 months after application

Tips to Win a Bachelor’s Scholarship in Germany

Here are the tips to win a Bachelors Scholarship in Germany.

1. Start early – Many deadlines are months in advance.
2. Craft a strong SOP – Personalize your motivation letter.
3. Highlight extracurriculars – Especially civic engagement or leadership.
4. Get strong recommendation letters – From teachers who know you well.
5. Show language skills – Even basic German helps your chances.
6. Apply for multiple scholarships – Don’t put all your hopes on one

Conclusion

With hundreds of Scholarships for Undergraduates in Germany available, from prestigious national schemes like Deutschlandstipendium and DAAD, to German university scholarships like the ones offered by Hamburg or Heidelberg. If you’re planning to study in Germany for the 2025 – 26 academic year, start early and apply widely. With a proactive approach, earning a Germany bachelor scholarship can dramatically reduce your education expenses and enhance your global academic journey.

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