As of 2025, Germany has increased its international scholarship funding by 15% to support a growing influx of Indian students. DAAD alone is expected to offer over 1,200 scholarships this year, with new subject-specific awards introduced to promote STEM and sustainability studies. This marks a strong push toward making higher education in Germany more accessible and inclusive.
Germany is becoming a top choice for Indian students seeking quality education at low or no tuition fees. With programs taught in English and a wide range of scholarships, it's now easier than ever to study in Germany for free.
These scholarships offer more than just financial aid—they open doors to global exposure, research, and long-term career growth at some of the top universities in Germany.
This blog covers the top scholarships in Germany for Indian students in 2025, including government, non-government, degree-specific, and university-based options. It also explains the eligibility criteria, application process, and tips to help you apply confidently.
Looking to study in Germany with financial aid? Explore top universities, popular courses, and visa guidance in our Study in Germany section.
Top Germany Scholarships for Indian Students in 2025
Germany has a broad spectrum of financial aid services either sponsored by the government or given by individual organizations and foundations. To make their navigability easier, we have categorized these scholarships into two broad categories, i.e. government-funded and non-government-funded.
Government Funded Scholarships
Directly or indirectly these scholarships are financed by the German government. They also would deal with fostering academic and career growth, especially in important research and development areas. Some of the most prominent ones are presented below:
Non-Government Funded Scholarships primarily rely on Political funds, religious outfits, independent research foundations or educational trusts. These are mostly performance-based and apply to students who have high academic records as well as good leadership.
Scholarship Name
Amount
Applicable For
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships
€1,312 or ~INR 1,31,000 (For EU Nationals)
Master’s / PhD
€934 or ~INR 93,200 (For Non - EU Students)
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships
€934 or ~INR 93,200 for Graduates
Master’s / PhD
€1,400 or ~INR 1,39,800 (for PhD
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Scholarships
€830 (~INR 83,000) for Bachelor’s
UG/PG
€850 (~INR 85,000) for Master’s
Humboldt Research Fellowship
€2,670 (~INR 2,66,000) for Fellowship (6-24 Months)
Doctoral (PhD)
TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship
€1,000 (~INR 1,00,000) per month
Master’s (Data Engineering / Data Science - Mathematics)
How to Apply and Get German Scholarships for Indian Students?
Timeline for applying Germany scholarships for Indian Students
Applying for scholarship in Germany is a process that requires proper strategy. These are the main steps that every student is supposed to revolve around:
Start Early: You must start researching at least 8 to 12 months before you are willing to enrol and get admission. Most scholarships also have their deadlines early, usually September to March. Applications made early in advance have higher possibilities of a successful application due to the ability to have all the needed documents and better preparation.
Make a Shortlist of Relevant Scholarships: Search DAAD, university websites and databases of private scholarships. Research and list down scholarships that are relevant to your program, academic background and career objectives. Learn about their eligibility, deadlines and their benefits.
Make a Preparation of Necessary Documents: Most scholarships will want a Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LORs), transcripts, admission document proof, language convention scores (IELTS/TOEFL/German), and your resume. Make sure that all documents should be signed correctly, formatted and translated in case it is necessary.
Benefits of Making Online Applications: Most applications are done online. The application form should always be checked twice and valid up-to-date documents uploaded. Do not wait up to the final deadline to make a submission.
Follow Up: There are scholarships which demand additional contact such as video interviews, verification of documents or written tasks. Make sure you watch your e-mail closely and reply as quickly as possible lest you get disqualified.
Stay Organized: Make a checklist or a spreadsheet having all details like deadlines, document status, scholarship stages and results. This will help avoid missing out on any steps or opportunities.
Degree-Specific Germany Scholarships for Indian Students
Certain scholarships in Germany cater only for specific degrees (Bachelor’s, Master’s or MBA). A student having some knowledge about these scholarships is going to be in benefit since these scholarships reduce the cost of living in Germany by quite a good amount.
Following is a categorized section of scholarships for different degrees:
Bachelor’s Scholarships in Germany
Bachelor's students in Germany can avail several funding options. Most are merit-based and focus on academic excellence and social involvement.
Scholarship Name
Amount
DAAD Wise Scholarship
€861 per month (INR ~86200)
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES)
€830 per month (~INR 83100)
Mawista Scholarship
€500 per month (~INR 50100)
Master’s Scholarship in Germany
There are several German scholarships for Indian students who wish to pursue a master's in any German university. They offer financial aid and opportunities for academic excellence.
Scholarship Name
Amount
DAAD Scholarship
€1,300 (INR 1,29,621) per month
Helmut-Schmidt-Programme
€934 (INR 83,432) per month
Heinrich Boll Scholarship
€1,312 (INR 131465) For EU Nationals €934 (INR 93588) For Non - EU Students
There are special scholarships to international students in several universities in Germany. Such scholarships tend to cover tuition expenses or living expenses or sometimes even certain academic projects. Some are among the most well-known:
Humboldt Research Fellowship - Targets postdoctoral scholars in all fields. It offers 2700 euros/month and extra research grants to finance projects in partner universities or institutes.
TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship - TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship is offered by Technical University of Munich. It offers a monthly stipend of €1,000 per month for students pursuing master’s courses, especially from Data Engineering and analytics or Mathematics in Data Science. It helps students in STEM fields particularly those registering in Master programs in accordance with the MDSI initiative.
Hans Peter Wild Talent Scholarship - This scholarship is meant to support all students who are talented in a MINT subjects (Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences and Technology). It is offered by Heidelberg University and offers a sum of €1,000 awarded for first two semesters at Bachelor’s or Master’s level.
University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships - This type of scholarship is given to international students whose academic results are comparatively high. It offers scholarship awards up to €930 per month. It gives a semester or more of financial aid that is offered on a monthly basis.
Benefits of Getting Scholarships in Germany for Indian Student
The availability of scholarships in Germany is not only a relief financially. They develop an environment of scholarly and career development. These are among the key benefits:
Monetary Gains: Scholarships may pay the entire college fees, and give a monthly allowance. This lowers the burden among the students and families.
Living Allowance: Most scholarships are accompanied with a monthly living allowance which is used to pay rent, food, travel and other daily expenses.
Medical and travel cover: Certain scholarships also cover you with the insurance and the student does not incur extra expenses.
Visas and Residency Support: Student visa and residence extended visas are easily obtained by scholarship holders.
Research and Networking: A lot of scholarships are accompanied by the possibilities to join an exclusive research group, networking events, and workshops.
Career Benefit: As someone who is awarded a scholarship, it is an addition to your CV and will give you an advantage in bagging future employment, not just in Germany but in any part of the world.
Tips for Getting Scholarship in Germany
Scholarships in Germany are competitive, but with the right approach, you can significantly improve your chances. From timely applications to strong documentation, each step matters.
Below are some practical tips to help you secure a scholarship for your studies in Germany.
Submit your Term: Deadlines are often tight on most scholarships. Early application is an indicator of seriousness and provision of follow-ups.
Write a Good Statement of Purpose: Your statement of purpose must show your background, objectives and reason why you deserve them.
Select Solid References: Do not use people you work with or know as sources of recommendation.
Use Extracurriculars: Activities in volunteer organizations, internships, student clubs will enhance your candidacy.
Academic Performance: You should have a GPA of above 70-75 percent or percentage in case you want to be accepted.
Apply to More than One Scholarship: Do not only hope on one. To expand your portfolio and have the best possibility of being successful.
Conclusion
Germany remains to be a role model in terms of high-quality and cheaper education. The opportunities are endless and the Indian students are given a lot of opportunities to fund their dreams due to the variety of scholarships on offer at various levels and fields.
A Germany Scholarship for Indian Students would help you get rid of a huge financial burden and open the door of a global career regardless of whether you study a bachelor or master degree, or an MBA. Find out as soon as possible, apply intelligently and make the most out of what Germany offers in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the fully-funded scholarships for Indian students?
Fully funded options include DAAD EPOS, KAAD, and Erasmus+. These scholarships typically cover tuition fees, monthly living expenses, travel allowances, and health insurance—making them ideal for Indian students aiming to study in Germany with minimal financial burden.
Q2. Which scholarship in Germany should we prefer: Government Funded or Private?
Government-funded scholarships like DAAD are more comprehensive, covering tuition, living, and travel. However, private scholarships may cater to specific fields, making them valuable if they match your profile. Prefer government options, but apply to both for broader chances.
Q3. Which German scholarship is best for Indian students?
DAAD is widely considered the best scholarship for Indian students. It's government-funded, offers a wide range of programs, and supports tuition, living costs, and travel, making it the most accessible and reliable option for various academic backgrounds.
Q4. How much CGPA is required for a scholarship in Germany?
Most scholarships require a minimum CGPA of 7.5 on a 10-point scale or 70–75% overall. Competitive programs may expect even higher scores, especially for fully-funded or research-based scholarships like DAAD or Erasmus+.
Q5. What amount can I get through scholarships to study in Germany?
Scholarship amounts vary but generally range from €300 to €1,350 (INR 30,000–1,35,000) per month. Some scholarships, like DAAD, may also cover full tuition, travel, and living expenses, significantly reducing your financial burden.
Q6. Who is eligible for the DAAD scholarship?
Students applying for postgraduate or PhD programs with excellent academic records and confirmed admission to a German university are eligible. Work experience, a strong SOP, and research alignment with German priorities also improve your chances.
Q7. Which scholarship is easy to get in Germany?
The Deutschlandstipendium is relatively easier to get, especially for undergraduate and postgraduate students. It’s based on academic performance and social engagement, and doesn’t require German citizenship or fluency in the German language.
Q8. How much percentage is required for scholarship in Germany?
A minimum of 70–75% in your previous academic program is commonly required. Some scholarships, especially research-oriented ones, may expect a higher percentage or strong academic ranking within your graduating class.
Q9. How difficult is it to get a scholarship in Germany?
It's competitive but not impossible. Strong academics, a compelling statement of purpose, complete documents, and timely application are key. Government scholarships like DAAD are more selective, while university and private ones may have more flexible criteria.
Q10. USA or Germany: which one is better for scholarships for Indian students?
Germany offers more tuition-free options and affordable scholarships, especially through public universities. While the USA has more scholarship programs, studying in Germany tends to be more cost-effective overall for Indian students.
Q11. What are the current changes for an Indian student to get Germany scholarship?
In 2025, new scholarships targeting sustainability, AI, and STEM fields have launched. Funding pools have expanded, and application processes are increasingly digital. These updates improve access and support for Indian students pursuing in-demand subjects.
With over a decade of expertise in international education, Jyotsna has held impactful roles at the British Council, Unilodgers, a prominent UK university, and IDP Education, empowering countless stud...
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