Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes (German Academic Scholarship Foundation)
by Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes
Stipend
Up to 855 EUR/month (need-based)
Duration
Standard study period (renewable)
Level
Bachelor, Master, PhD
Deadline
Varies by pathway. You and Europe: July–October. Self-application and professor nomination windows vary by university.
Overview
Germany's largest and most prestigious academic scholarship foundation supports fewer than 0.5% of German students. It is politically independent and non-denominational. International students can access it primarily through the "You and Europe" programme for Master's studies or via professor nomination.
Provider
Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes
Type
foundation Scholarship
Who Can Apply
Primarily German/EU students; limited access for international students via "You and Europe" programme or professor nomination
Degree Levels
Bachelor, Master, PhD
Benefits & Financial Support
Funding Amount
Up to 855 EUR/month (need-based) + 300 EUR/month study allowance; PhD: 1,650 EUR/month + 100 EUR/month research
About
The Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes (German Academic Scholarship Foundation) is the largest and most prestigious scholarship organisation in Germany. Unlike the political foundations, it is politically independent, non-denominational, and non-partisan. It awards scholarships based purely on academic excellence, intellectual curiosity, and community engagement.
Benefits — Students
- Need-based basic scholarship up to 855 EUR/month (calculated per BAfoG)
- Study allowance of 300 EUR/month (income-independent, for all scholars)
- Health and long-term care insurance subsidies
Benefits — PhD Scholars
- Monthly stipend of 1,650 EUR (from October 2025)
- Research allowance of 100 EUR/month
Access for International Students
- You and Europe Programme: Open to European students for 3–4 semester Master's programmes in Germany starting autumn 2026
- Students of all nationalities enrolled at German universities may be nominated by professors
- Self-application possible through specific pathways for enrolled students
Selection Process
- Academic assessment, essay, and multi-day selection seminar
- Highly competitive — fewer than 0.5% of all German students receive this scholarship
Eligibility Requirements
- Outstanding academic achievement
- intellectual curiosity
- social engagement. International students: primarily via You and Europe programme or professor nomination at a German university.
What This Scholarship Covers
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and daily expenses
Health Insurance
Mandatory health, accident, and liability insurance
Study Materials
Annual allowance for books and study supplies
How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet the nationality, degree level, academic, and language requirements listed above.
Prepare Documents
Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, letters of recommendation, language certificates, and motivation letter.
Find a Programme
Identify the German university and programme you want to study. Some scholarships require university admission before applying.
Submit Application
Apply through the official application portal before the deadline. Upload all required documents as PDFs.
Interview & Selection
If shortlisted, attend an interview (may be online). Selection committees assess academic merit, motivation, and fit.
Receive Decision
Scholarship decisions typically arrive 3–6 months after the deadline. If awarded, complete visa and enrolment procedures.
Application Document Checklist
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV / resume)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- Bachelor's or Master's degree certificate
- Academic transcripts with grades
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH)
- Letter(s) of recommendation from university professors
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- University admission letter (if already accepted)
Note: Exact document requirements vary. Always check the official scholarship page for the definitive list.
Need Help With Your Application?
Scholarship applications are competitive — a strong profile evaluation, polished SOP, and the right university selection make the difference. GradGermany's experts can help at every step.
Quick Facts
- Amount
- Up to 855 EUR/month (need-based) + 300 EUR/month study allowance; PhD: 1,650 EUR/month + 100 EUR/month research
- Duration
- Standard study period (renewable)
- Degree Levels
- Bachelor Master PhD
- Deadline
- Varies by pathway. You and Europe: July–October. Self-application and professor nomination windows vary by university.
- Who Can Apply
- Primarily German/EU students; limited access for international students via "You and Europe" programme or professor nomination
Frequently Asked Questions About the Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes (German Academic Scholarship Foundation)
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