If you’re a Nigerian student dreaming of studying in Germany for free or with full financial support, the DAAD scholarship is one opportunity you can’t afford to miss.
This blog post will break down everything you need to know about the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) scholarship, how it works for Nigerians, the benefits, who can apply, and how to get started.
What is the DAAD Scholarship?
The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is one of the world’s largest funding organizations supporting international academic exchange. It offers thousands of scholarships each year for international students, including Nigerians, to study in Germany at no or very little cost.
The DAAD scholarship program is designed to promote the education and training of talented international graduates at German universities. It supports Master’s, PhD, and sometimes undergraduate programs, depending on the course and university.
Why Nigerians Should Apply for the DAAD Scholarship
Germany has become a popular study destination for Nigerian students, and for good reasons:
- Tuition-Free Education: Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees.
- Globally Recognized Degrees: Degrees from German universities are respected worldwide.
- Fully Funded Support: The DAAD covers living costs, health insurance, and travel allowances.
- Career Opportunities: Germany has a strong economy and many international job prospects.
- Diverse Research Opportunities: Ideal for students interested in science, tech, engineering, and innovation.
The DAAD scholarship helps you eliminate financial barriers while accessing one of the best education systems in the world.
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Types of DAAD Scholarships Available to Nigerians
Here are some of the most common DAAD scholarship programs Nigerian students can apply for:
1. Postgraduate Courses with Relevance to Developing Countries
- For: Nigerian graduates with work experience
- Covers: Master’s and selected PhD programs in development-related fields
- Fields: Engineering, public policy, agriculture, economics, and more
2. Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes
- For: Nigerian PhD students
- Supports: Full PhD in Germany or research stays
- Duration: 3–4 years
3. Short-Term Research Grants
- For: Young Nigerian researchers and lecturers
- Covers: 1–6 months of research at a German university
4. EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses)
- For: Mid-career professionals
- Focus: Master’s in subjects critical to development
Key Benefits of the DAAD Scholarship
When you win a DAAD scholarship as a Nigerian student, here are the life-changing benefits:
- Monthly Stipend
- Master’s students: €934/month
- Doctoral students: €1,200/month
- Travel Allowance
- Covers flight from Nigeria to Germany and back
- Health, Accident, and Personal Liability Insurance
- Free or Low-Cost German Language Course
- Up to 6 months before your studies begin
- Tuition Fees (where applicable)
- Mostly covered or free at public universities
- Family Benefits
- Additional support for students traveling with family
Who is Eligible for the DAAD Scholarship?
To be eligible for the DAAD scholarship as a Nigerian, you need to meet the following criteria:
- Academic Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree with at least a second class upper (2:1) for master’s programs
- A master’s degree for PhD applicants
- Work Experience:
- At least two years of professional experience for most development-related programs
- University Admission:
- You must apply for admission to a German university as part of your application
- Return Intentions:
- You should demonstrate that you intend to return to Nigeria to apply your knowledge
- Graduation Date:
- Your last degree should be within the last 6 years
Required Documents for Nigerian Applicants
Here’s a list of documents you’ll likely need for the DAAD application:
- DAAD application form (filled online via the DAAD portal)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in the Europass format
- Letter of motivation (1–2 pages)
- University degree certificates and transcripts (with English translation)
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of work experience
- Research proposal (for PhD)
- Admission letter from German university (if available)
- Language test results (TOEFL, IELTS, or German proficiency, depending on the course)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Here’s a simplified guide to applying for the DAAD scholarship as a Nigerian:
Step 1: Research Suitable Programs
- Visit the DAAD scholarship database: https://www.daad.de/en/
- Filter by “Developing countries” and Nigeria
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
- Get transcripts, certificates, and recommendation letters early
- Write a strong motivation letter
Step 3: Apply to German Universities
- Apply directly to the course you want to study (check the deadline)
Step 4: Apply for the Scholarship via DAAD Portal
- Register and submit your scholarship application online
Step 5: Wait for Response
- You may be invited for an interview or asked for additional documents
Important Deadlines and Timeline
- Most DAAD scholarships open between August and October of each year.
- Application deadlines usually fall between October and December.
- Scholarships start the next academic year in October.
It’s important to check each course’s specific deadline on the university or DAAD portal.
DAAD Scholarship Success Tips for Nigerians
Here are expert tips to improve your chances of winning:
Start Early – Begin preparations at least 6 months before the deadline
Focus Your Motivation Letter – Explain clearly why you chose your course and how it will help Nigeria
Be Specific in Your Research Proposal – If you’re applying for PhD or research grants
Get Strong References – Choose academic or professional referees who know your work
Meet All Criteria – Don’t skip requirements like language tests or university applications
Use the DAAD Nigeria Office – Reach out for help or attend information sessions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can undergraduate students in Nigeria apply for DAAD?
No, The DAAD does not typically offer undergraduate scholarships to Nigerians.
2. Do I need to know German to apply?
Not necessarily. Many courses are taught in English, but learning German is a plus.
3. Is the DAAD scholarship competitive?
Yes, very. But if your documents are strong, you stand a good chance.
4. Can I work while studying on DAAD?
Yes, international students in Germany are allowed to work part-time.
5. What if I don’t get the DAAD scholarship?
Look for other options like Erasmus+, Heinrich Böll, or university-specific scholarships.