Discover the best fully funded Germany scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses for international students pursuing Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs.
Explore German scholarships that provide monthly stipends, housing, and full financial support.
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking high-quality education with low or no tuition fees. But what truly makes Germany stand out is the availability of fully funded scholarships—especially those that cover living expenses entirely. Living costs in Germany can range from €900 to €1,200 per month, so securing a scholarship that offers full financial support can make education accessible to students from all economic backgrounds.
This in-depth guide explores where to find Germany scholarships that fully cover living expenses, the eligibility criteria, benefits, application tips, and a complete list of major scholarship providers.
1. Why Germany is the Best Choice for Fully Funded Scholarships
Germany is a dream destination for international students—and for good reasons:
1.1. Tuition-Free Public Universities
Most public universities in Germany charge zero tuition fees, even for international students. Students only pay an administrative semester contribution between €200 and €400.
1.2. High Living Costs Covered by Scholarships
Germany offers multiple scholarship schemes that fund:
- Monthly stipends (€861–€1,200)
- Travel expenses
- Health insurance
- Research allowances
- Family benefits (for PhD students)
- Rent subsidies
1.3. Globally Recognized Degrees
German universities rank among the top 100 worldwide, offering:
- Practical learning
- Industry collaborations
- Research opportunities
- Strong employability
1.4. Strong Post-Study Work Opportunities
Germany allows graduates to apply for:
- 18-month job search visa
- Blue Card for permanent residency
- High-paying job opportunities
2. Fully Funded Germany Scholarships That Cover Living Expenses
Here is a detailed list of the top sources where you can find Germany scholarships that cover full living expenses.
3. Top Germany Scholarships That Offer Full Living Expenses
3.1. DAAD Scholarships (German Academic Exchange Service)
The DAAD Scholarship is the most prestigious and popular fully funded program for international students in Germany. It provides complete financial support, including a generous monthly stipend that covers all living costs.
3.1.1. What DAAD Scholarship Covers
- Monthly stipend:
- €934 for Master’s
- €1,300–€1,500 for PhD
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance
- Fully funded German language course
- Research and study allowance
- Rent subsidy (in special cases)
- Family benefits for married scholars
3.1.2. Who Can Apply
- Graduates from developing and developed countries
- Students applying for Master’s or PhD programs
- Academic excellence
- Relevant professional experience (1–2 years for some programs)
3.1.3. Where to Find DAAD Scholarships
You can find DAAD programs through:
- Universities
- DAAD scholarship database
- German embassies
- Research institutes
3.2. Deutschlandstipendium National Scholarship Program
This is a merit-based scholarship funded by the German government and private sponsors. While it is not fully funded, many universities combine it with additional financial packages that can help cover living expenses.
Benefits
- €300 per month
- Renewable each year
- Awarded based on exceptional academic achievement
3.3. Erasmus+ Scholarships for Germany
Erasmus+ offers fully funded scholarships for:
- Master’s mobility programs
- Joint European degree programs
- Exchange semesters in Germany
What It Covers
- Monthly stipend (€850–€1,200)
- Tuition support
- Travel allowance
- Cultural integration expenses
3.4. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
This foundation provides fully funded scholarships for students interested in:
- Social justice
- Democracy
- Environmental protection
Benefits
- Master’s: €934 per month
- PhD: €1,350 per month + €100 research allowance
- Health insurance
- Family and childcare allowance
Eligibility
- Strong academic performance
- Community involvement
- Commitment to sustainability and social causes
3.5. Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships
Ideal for students pursuing:
- Political science
- Law
- Economics
- Journalism
- Humanities
Financial Coverage
- €934 monthly stipend
- Health insurance
- Family allowance
- Research funding
Requirements
- Strong academic profile
- Leadership qualities
- Active social engagement
3.6. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarship
FES supports students committed to:
- Social democracy
- Human rights
- Equality
Coverage
- Full monthly living expenses
- Health insurance
- Travel support
3.7. Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships
Focused on:
- Social equality
- Feminism
- Political activism
Coverage
- €934–€1,350 per month
- Research and travel allowances
3.8. KAAD (Catholic Academic Exchange Service) Scholarships
KAAD supports international students from developing countries who wish to pursue postgraduate studies.
Benefits
- Full living expenses
- Language courses
- Family allowance
- Accommodation support
Requirements
- Catholic students (or open to interfaith candidates)
- Academic excellence
- Leadership potential
3.9. Humboldt Research Fellowships (Postdoctoral)
A fully funded scholarship for researchers pursuing postdoctoral studies.
Benefits
- €2,700 monthly stipend
- Travel allowances
- Family and children’s support
- Health insurance
3.10. Marie Curie Research Fellowships
One of Europe’s most prestigious research funding programs.
Benefits
- Full living allowance (€4,880/month before tax)
- Research support
- Family and travel assistance
4. German Universities That Offer Fully Funded Scholarships Covering Living Costs
Many public universities in Germany offer institutional scholarships that cover full living expenses for outstanding students.
4.1. TU Munich Scholarships
- Monthly living stipends
- Research funding
- Merit-based support
4.2. Heidelberg University Scholarships
- International student stipends
- Research travel grants
4.3. Free University of Berlin
- International Scholarship Fund
- Living expense support
4.4. RWTH Aachen University
- Full-funded doctoral scholarships
- Research funding
5. Where to Search for Fully Funded Germany Scholarships
Here are the most reliable sources for finding scholarships that cover living expenses in Germany:
5.1. DAAD Scholarship Database
Contains hundreds of fully funded scholarships.
5.2. University International Offices
Every university lists:
- Scholarships
- Summer grants
- Living cost support programs
5.3. German Foundations
Each foundation focuses on specific academic or social goals.
5.4. Research Institutes
Like:
- Max Planck
- Fraunhofer
- Leibniz institutes
5.5. Government Portals
Official education and immigration websites publish:
- Funding programs
- Student support schemes
6. Eligibility Criteria for Fully Funded Germany Scholarships
While each scholarship has its own requirements, most follow these criteria:
6.1. Academic Excellence
A strong GPA and academic performance are essential.
6.2. Language Proficiency
- English: IELTS/TOEFL
- German: TestDaF/DSH (if course is in German)
6.3. Motivation and Recommendation Letters
Strong letters demonstrating:
- Leadership
- Career goals
- Research potential
6.4. Work Experience (For Some Programs)
Especially for development-related fields.
6.5. Community or Political Engagement
Foundations like FES, KAS, and Rosa Luxemburg expect social involvement.
7. Documents Required for Fully Funded Germany Scholarships
Common Documents Include
- Passport copy
- Academic transcripts
- CV or Resume
- Motivation Letter
- Letters of Recommendation
- Study Plan
- Research Proposal (PhD)
- Language test scores
- Work experience certificates
8. Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Fully Funded Germany Scholarships
8.1. Start Early
Applications open 6–12 months before program start.
8.2. Write a Powerful Motivation Letter
Highlight:
- Your goals
- Why Germany
- Why the scholarship
- Future impact
8.3. Highlight Research Interest (for PhD)
Show original ideas and innovations.
8.4. Gain Relevant Experience
Internships, volunteering, and leadership roles matter.
8.5. Apply to Multiple Germany Scholarships
Increase your chances by applying to 4–6 scholarship programs.
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with incomplete documents
- Weak motivation letter
- Missing deadlines
- Lack of clarity in academic goals
- Ignoring eligibility criteria
Also Read: Which Canadian Scholarships Are Available for International Students in 2025?
Sources
10. FAQs
1. Do Germany Scholarships really cover full living expenses?
Yes. Scholarships like DAAD, Heinrich Böll, KAS, and KAAD provide full monthly stipends covering rent, food, health insurance, and living costs.
2. Can I get a fully funded scholarship without IELTS?
Some universities accept:
- Medium of Instruction Certificate
- Duolingo
- University interviews
But major scholarships require English or German proficiency.
3. Are there fully funded scholarships for Bachelor’s programs in Germany?
Yes, but they are fewer. Deutschlandstipendium and foundation scholarships may cover living expenses for bachelor’s students with exceptional merit.
4. How much is the monthly cost of living in Germany Scholarships?
Approximately €900–€1,200 per month depending on the city.
5. Can working part-time help with expenses?
Yes. Students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
6. Do Germany Scholarships cover accommodation?
Some programs provide:
- Rent subsidy
- University dorm accommodation
- Financial support for housing
7. Are PhD scholarships fully funded in Germany?
Yes. Most PhD scholarships cover living expenses, research costs, and family allowance.