Scholarships for Indian Students in Germany

Germany is one of the few countries where world-class education doesn’t have to break your bank. With zero tuition fees at public universities and numerous scholarships exclusively for Indian students, studying here is more affordable than ever. Whether you’re eyeing government-backed funding or research grants, there’s an opportunity waiting for you.

With Hamlets Education, you don’t have to navigate this alone. We help you shortlist the best options, fine-tune your application, and boost your chances of securing funding. Why wait? Your German education starts now!

Types of Scholarships for Indian Students in Germany

Germany offers a wide range of scholarships that make studying in the country affordable and accessible for Indian students. Whether you’re a high-achiever, in need of financial aid, or pursuing research-driven studies, there’s a scholarship tailored for you. Some of the most sought-after scholarships have been described in the following section:

1. Germany Government Scholarships

Germany’s DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is one of the largest scholarship providers in the world, offering funding for undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD students.
These scholarships typically cover tuition fees (if applicable), a monthly stipend (€861 for graduates, €1,200 for PhD students), health insurance, and travel costs.
Another major initiative is the Deutschlandstipendium, a merit-based scholarship that provides €300 per month to outstanding students, co-funded by private sponsors and the German government.

2. Indian Government and Private Scholarships

The Indian government also offers funding for students heading to Germany, including the National Overseas Scholarship (NOS) which supports students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing a master’s or PhD abroad.
The J.N. Tata Endowment Scholarships provides loan scholarships with flexible repayment terms for Indian students studying internationally.
Additionally, private organisations like the Inlaks Foundation provide funding for arts, architecture, and social sciences students heading to Germany.

3. University-Specific Scholarships

Many German universities offer internal scholarships for international students based on academic merit, leadership skills, or financial need. Some universities even waive tuition fees entirely for top-performing students. Examples include:
- Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships (for socially engaged students)
- Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships (for students with strong academic and environmental/social commitment)
- RWTH Aachen University Scholarships (for research-oriented STEM students)

4. Industry and Research-Based Scholarships

Germany is a global research hub, with industries and institutions funding students in specialised fields like engineering, renewable energy, AI, and business studies. Scholarships from foundations like:
- Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (for students in political science, law, and public affairs)
- Siemens and Bosch Research Grants (for engineering and tech students)
- Max Planck Society & Helmholtz Scholarships (for doctoral research)

5. Specialized and NGO Scholarships

The Erasmus+ Scholarships offers funding for exchange students and joint-degree programs in Germany.
DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses are available for students from developing countries pursuing degrees in sustainable development.

Scholarship Eligibility Requirements for Indian Students in Germany

Securing a scholarship in Germany requires strong academic performance, language proficiency, and a well-prepared application. While most scholarships prioritize high grades, others also consider research potential, financial need, or leadership experience. Requirements vary, so carefully reviewing each scholarship’s criteria is essential.

Essential Eligibility Factors

1. Academic Performance

Scholarships in Germany, especially those from DAAD and university-specific programs, demand strong academic records. Undergraduate applicants generally need at least 80% in Class 12 from CBSE, ISC, or State Boards. For postgraduate scholarships, a first-class bachelor’s degree, usually with a minimum of 75% or an equivalent CGPA, is required. Research-based scholarships often prioritise candidates with published work or a well-documented thesis.

2. Standardized Test Scores

Although many German universities do not mandate GRE or GMAT scores, some scholarships for business and STEM programs consider them for selection. A GRE score above 310 or a GMAT score exceeding 600 can improve eligibility for merit-based financial aid. Some programs may have specific subject requirements, so checking university guidelines is advisable.

3. English Proficiency

Most international students opt for English-taught programs, which require proof of English proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL. A score between 6.0 and 7.5 in IELTS or 80 to 100 in TOEFL iBT is typically expected. However, for German-taught programs, exams like TestDaF (minimum TDN 4 in all sections) or DSH-2 certification are necessary. Even for English courses, learning basic German can enhance scholarship opportunities and improve living experiences in Germany.

4. Leadership & Extracurricular Activities

Scholarships such as the Deutschlandstipendium favour candidates who demonstrate leadership skills, social commitment, or exceptional extracurricular achievements. Holding leadership roles in student councils, participating in global competitions, volunteering for social causes, or excelling in sports can add significant weight to an application. Beyond academics, scholarship committees look for individuals who actively contribute to society and show potential for future impact.

5. Financial Need

Some scholarships, such as BAföG and private funding programs, consider financial background alongside academic merit. Applicants need to provide official income proofs like salary slips, tax returns, or bank statements. Additionally, a personal statement explaining financial constraints and the necessity of scholarship assistance can strengthen the application. Sponsorship letters and other financial aid details may also be required.

6. Scholarship Essay (Statement of Purpose) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

Some scholarships, such as BAföG and private funding programs, consider financial background alongside academic merit. Applicants need to provide official income proofs like salary slips, tax returns, or bank statements. Additionally, a personal statement explaining financial constraints and the necessity of scholarship assistance can strengthen the application. Sponsorship letters and other financial aid details may also be required.

7. Citizenship & Residency Requirements

Most scholarships are open to Indian nationals with a valid passport, but some have age restrictions. Master’s scholarships typically set an upper limit of 35 years, while PhD funding often has no fixed age cap but may require relevant work experience. Some programs also mandate medical fitness certificates as part of the eligibility process.

8. Application Deadlines & Submission

Scholarship deadlines in Germany generally fall before university admission deadlines. Applications for government scholarships typically close between November and March, while university-specific scholarships may have deadlines between January and May. Private and research grants often have rolling deadlines. Ensuring timely submission of all required documents, including attested transcripts and officially translated certificates, is crucial to avoid disqualification.

Top Scholarships for Indian Students to Study in Germany

Germany’s robust scholarship system provides Indian students with multiple funding opportunities, including government-sponsored programs, university-specific grants, and private-sector sponsorships. These financial aid options help ease the cost of studying abroad, making quality education more accessible. Explore available scholarships today and take a decisive step toward your academic success!

German Government Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
DAAD Scholarships	- Master’s: €861/month + travel + insurance PhD: €1,200/month + research grants	- Indian nationals - Min. 75% in undergrad (varies by program) - 2+ years work experience (for some programs)	Covers 12–36 months. Priority for STEM, economics, and development studies.
Deutschlandstipendium	€300/month (for 1 year, renewable)	- Academic excellence - Social/artistic achievements - No nationality restrictions	Co-funded by private sponsors. Not need-based.

Indian Government Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
National Overseas Scholarship (NOS)	Up to ₹20 lakhs (tuition + living)	SC/ST/OBC/minority students - Family income < ₹6 lakhs/year - Admission to top global universities	Must return to India post-study.
Inlaks Shivdasani Scholarship	Up to $100,000 (tuition + living)	- Age ≤ 30 - Min. 65% in undergrad - Admission to top universities (e.g., TU Munich)	Excludes MBA, engineering, medicine.
K.C. Mahindra Scholarships	₹5–10 lakhs (interest-free loan)	- Merit-based - Admission to STEM/management programs	Repayable 5 years post-graduation.

University Offered Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships	Up to €850/month + health insurance	- Enrollment at a state or state-recognized German university - Demonstrated commitment to social democracy - Good academic performance - Proficiency in German	Supports students from public or state-approved universities and polytechnical colleges in all academic subjects.
Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships	Varies	- Admission to a Master's program at a state or state-recognized institution in Germany - Strong academic record - Active engagement in environmental or social causes	Approximately 1,500 scholarships awarded annually to undergraduates, graduates, and doctoral students of all nationalities.
RWTH Aachen University Scholarships	Up to 25% tuition fee reduction	- High academic achievement - Enrollment in a Master's program at RWTH International Academy - Relevant professional experience	The High Potential Student Grant offers up to a 25% reduction in tuition fees for outstanding students.

Industry and Research-Based Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarships	- Master's: €850/month for 2 years - PhD: €1,200/month for 3 years	- Hold a bachelor's degree - Above-average academic performance - German language proficiency (B2 level or higher) - Active voluntary work - Plan to study in Germany for at least four semesters	Aimed at international students demonstrating a commitment to democracy and human rights.
Bosch Scholarship Program	Varies	- Underprivileged students pursuing engineering degrees - Academic merit - Financial need	Provides scholarships, internships, and mentorships to support engineering students.
Max Planck Society Research Scholarships	- Doctoral: €1,365/month - Postdoctoral: €2,100/month	- Enrollment in doctoral or postdoctoral research - Strong academic background - Research alignment with Max Planck Institutes	Offers funding for research stays at Max Planck Institutes.

Specialized and NGO Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Scholarship Amount	Eligibility Criteria	Additional Details
Erasmus+ Scholarships	Varies based on destination and duration	- Enrollment in a higher education institution - Study or traineeship agreement with a partner institution - Compliance with Erasmus+ program requirements	Exempts students from tuition fees at the receiving institution; provides grants to cover travel and subsistence costs.

Apply for Scholarships to Study in Switzerland for Indian Students

Germany offers a wealth of scholarships for international students, making it an attractive destination for quality education without excessive financial burdens. However, given the highly competitive nature of these scholarships, a well-strategized approach is crucial. Below are key steps to maximize your chances of securing a scholarship in Germany.

Germany has numerous scholarship programs, ranging from government-funded initiatives like DAAD to industry-backed research grants and university-specific awards. Begin your search at least a year in advance to understand the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and required documents.
Each scholarship has specific criteria that applicants must meet. Understanding these early on allows you to tailor your application accordingly:
- Academic Excellence: Many scholarships, including DAAD and Deutschlandstipendium, prioritize students with outstanding academic records.
- Language Proficiency: Most German universities require proof of language proficiency. If your course is in German, you’ll need a TestDaF or DSH certification.
- Work Experience and Extracurricular Achievements: Some scholarships, like the DAAD EPOS program, require at least two years of professional experience.
A compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP) is crucial in demonstrating your academic aspirations, career goals, and motivation for studying in Germany. Avoid generic statements and focus on a clear, authentic, and structured narrative.
A well-written LOR from a professor, employer, or mentor can add significant value to your scholarship application. Ensure that your referees provide a well-rounded perspective on your abilities and potential.
Some German scholarships, especially those offered by political foundations (e.g., Heinrich Böll Stiftung, Konrad Adenauer Stiftung), require interviews to assess applicants’ motivation, knowledge, and suitability. Key strategies include researching Germany’s role in your field of study and practicing responses to common questions about your academic and professional journey.
German scholarship applications often have strict deadlines, and late or incomplete submissions can lead to immediate disqualification.
Leverage insights from university advisors, mentors, and alumni who have successfully secured scholarships in Germany. Engaging with past recipients through LinkedIn, student forums, or university events can provide first-hand experiences on the application process.

Conclusion

Germany’s scholarship landscape rewards academic promise, social impact, and global ambition. Whether you’re aiming for DAAD funding, a university-specific award, or an industry-backed grant, preparation is your greatest asset. With a compelling application and the right support from Hamlets Education, your dream of studying in Germany can be both affordable and achievable.

Germany Wants You—Get Scholarships & Study Stress-Free!