For Art and Architecture Applicants

If you’re applying from artistic disciplines or architecture, you must apply through one of these specialized DAAD programs:

• Architecture
• Fine Art / Design / Film
• Performing Arts
• Music

Language Requirements

Most programs in Germany are taught in German, while international programs may be taught in English or a mix of German and English.

Selection Process

Applications are reviewed by an independent selection committee made up of subject-area experts.

Selection criteria include:

1. Academic Qualification

• Academic achievements
• School leaving certificate (if applicable)
• Chosen course of study
• Language skills relevant to the program
• Related internships or work experience

2. Quality of the Study Project

• Preparation and clarity of study plans (choice of program, university, and research topic)
• How well the project fits into your academic and career goals

3. Applicant’s Potential

• Motivation and reasons for studying in Germany
• Expected personal and professional development after the stay
• Extracurricular or social engagement

The committee also takes equal opportunity factors into account as provided in the application form.

DAAD deadlines are updated each year, usually during the second quarter. Typical dates are:

• Applications open: June 2025
• Application deadline: October 31, 2025
• Selection period: February–March 2026
• Funding begins: October 2026

You are eligible if:

• You have completed your first university degree (e.g. Bachelor’s or Diplom) by the time funding begins.
• Your degree was earned no more than six years before the application deadline.
• You have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of the application deadline.

You are responsible for:

• Applying to your chosen German university on time.
• Submitting all required admission documents before the funding period starts.

If your degree includes a study or internship period abroad, DAAD will only fund it if:

• It is essential to your program,
• It’s outside your home country, and
• It lasts no more than 25% of your scholarship period (or up to 50% for joint/double degrees).

Language Proof

You must provide proof of language proficiency in the language of instruction (German, English, or both).

Accepted certificates:

• For German: TestDaF, DSH, DSD, Goethe-Zertifikat, Österreichisches Sprachdiplom, telc Deutsch, or onSET Deutsch
• For English: Cambridge English, IELTS, TOEFL iBT/Essentials, TOEIC, PTE Academic, or onSET English

• CV in tabular form (max. 3 pages)
• Motivation letter (1–3 pages) explaining academic and personal reasons for studying in Germany
• Letter of admission (if available; otherwise submit before funding begins)
• “Information about your preferred master programmes” form (if applying for a Master’s)
• Proof of credit transfer (if studying in Germany as part of a degree abroad)
• Transcript of records
• Degree certificate(s) with final grade(s)
• Proof of language proficiency (not older than 2 years)
• One academic letter of recommendation
• Translations (if documents are not in German or English)
• School leaving certificate
• Explanation of grading system

Optional: Certificates of employment, volunteer work, or other supporting documents.

Applicants from all countries are eligible.

What’s Covered

• Full Master’s degree or one academic year in Germany (if part of a program abroad with credit transfer)
• Not available for Master’s programs already started in Germany

Duration

• Between 10 and 24 months, depending on program length
• Funding continues after first-year performance review
• Must start in October 2026 (or earlier if you take a German course)

Monthly and Additional Benefits

• €992 per month
• Health, accident, and liability insurance coverage
• €460 annual study allowance
• Travel allowance
• Possible extras:
  • Rent subsidy
  • Family allowance
  • Disability-related cost assistance
  • Green Mobility Top-Up (eco-friendly travel support)

Language Preparation

• Free online German language course after award
• Funded 2-6 month pre-study German course (depending on skills)
• Language course allowance during studies
• Reimbursement for TestDaF or DSH exam fees

💡 Note: DAAD does not cover tuition fees.

• Apply for admission to your desired German university/program.
• Register in the DAAD Portal.
• Request a recommendation form via the portal and have it completed by a lecturer at your current/previous university.
• Prepare and upload all required documents (PDF format) — including translations if needed — and submit your application online through the portal.

• Applications must be complete and submitted before the deadline.
• The DAAD portal closes at 24:00 (CET/CEST) on the last day.
• Avoid submitting on the last day to prevent technical issues.
• Incomplete applications are not considered.
• Submitted materials remain with DAAD.
• Personal data is handled according to EU and German data protection laws.
• The portal is only open during the active application period.