How to Get a Scholarship to Study Abroad in Germany: Tips, Criteria, and Examples
Many students dream of studying in Germany due to the very good quality of education, nice universities, and relatively cheap living. Funding studies might seem to be a problem for most students. Yet, Germany has provided many scholarships to make it easier for international students to cater to the tuition fee and living costs in the country. Here’s an easy step-by-step guideline on how to apply for a scholarship to study in Germany with real-life examples and practical tips.
Why study in Germany?
Germany is a place that boasts the quality of education worldwide, especially in regards to engineering, sciences, and art. Additionally, most of the public universities do not charge tuition fees to the international students, which indeed is a low-cost destination. With a scholarship, studying in Germany can really be economic.
Types of Scholarships:
DAAD Scholarships
Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, or DAAD is Germany’s largest funding organization for scholarships abroad. DAAD is just like the portal of destinations. In this portal, an individual can find all the types of scholarships offered by it.
The DAAD also offers the largest scholarship in Germany. Hence, it funds international students to engage in all sorts of study programs, such as a bachelor’s, master’s, and even PhDs.
Deutschlandstipendium:
This one is offered to excellent students, and it provides money amounting to €300 every month. It is available to both German and international students.
Erasmus+ Scholarships:
If you already live in Europe and you want to go abroad and study or come to Germany, Erasmus+ will cover your study exchange in Germany.
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships:
It is intended for students who have an interest in politics and social issues with the target of advancing to a master’s or doctorate degree.
Scholarship at Heinrich Böll Foundation:
Its main aim targets those interested in environmental and social sustainability.
Kriterien für ein Stipendium
Bester Note:
For most scholarships, you will need to provide a good academic record.
Sprachkenntnisse:
Either English or German is generally a requirement. Ensure that you prepare TOEFL/IELTS or TestDaF/DSH scores.
Field of Study Match:
Make sure that your field of study matches that of the scholarship. For example, a scholarship on matters concerning the environment would look for students majoring in environmental sciences or any other related degrees.
Motivation Letter and Recommendations:
You will be expected to write an interesting motivation letter stating your reasons for studying in Germany and why you are a good candidate. Remember also to attach letters of recommendation from teachers or employers who know you.
Extracurricular Activities:
Scholarships such as the Deutschlandstipendium also include volunteer work and social activities. In case you have done community service, then put that within your application.
How to Get a Scholarship in Germany
Search Early for Scholarships:
You are expected to search for scholarships at least a year before you will be applying. This can leave you with enough time to prepare your application and gathering all of the required documents.
Dress Your Application:
End
Emphasize, in every application, skills and experiences that fit the requirements of each scholarship.
Pay Special Attention to the Motivation Letter:
It is now your time in the spotlight. Be honest and show clearly why you would like to study in Germany and how this will best help you to succeed in your career.
Learn Some German:Even if your course is in English, learning a little bit of German shows your commitment and makes easier to live in Germany .
Apply for Multiple Scholarships:
Don’t apply for just one scholarship. Instead, increase chances by applying for several.
Real-Life Examples
Akash’s Success with DAAD:
Akash is an engineering graduate of India who applied for a DAAD scholarship for a master’s course in renewable energy. He focused on sustainability while applying, and in his letter of motivation, he convinced the committee to provide him with a scholarship that will take care of tuition and accommodation.
Maria’s Experience with Deutschlandstipendium
Maria is a student from Brazil whose good grades and volunteer activities ensured she secured the Deutschlandstipendium .This 300 euros a month supported her in her small additional costs while studying.
