KAAD International Scholarships 2025–2026 – Fully Funded Master’s, PhD, and Postdoctoral/Research Stays

Offered by: KAAD – Catholic Academic Exchange Service, Germany

Application Period: Multiple deadlines; varies by country and channel (e.g., via Catholic University Chaplaincies for those already in Germany). Applicants should check the current country-specific schedule and KAAD instructions.

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Who May Apply

Outstanding students and researchers from developing/emerging countries in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
Applicants aiming for Master’s, PhD, or 2–6 month research stays at German universities.
Candidates with leadership potential, social engagement, and willingness to engage in intercultural/interreligious dialogue (preference for Catholic/Christian applicants; others considered with Catholic partner recommendation).

Benefits

Scholars may enjoy the following benefits:

Full coverage of university fees/tuition for the entire course or research period.
Monthly living allowance (adjusted to local costs) for accommodation and expenses.
Comprehensive health insurance in Germany.
International travel costs to/from Germany (usually included).
Up to 6 months intensive German language course before studies; further language support during studies.
Academic networking, mentoring, and KAAD alumni community support.
Holistic formation opportunities (personal, cultural, and—if desired—spiritual).

Qualifications

Applicants must have the following qualifications:

Must be a citizen and current resident of an eligible developing/emerging country in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, or Latin America.
Must hold a relevant university degree and possess professional/academic experience from the home country.
Must seek admission to a German university for a Master’s/PhD/other postgraduate program, or a 2–6 month research stay (for academics).
Must show some German proficiency prior to arrival (KAAD supports up to 6 months of German study in Germany); minimum B1 German for KAAD’s education program or A2 if the degree program is in English.
Must demonstrate above-average academic performance and a clear plan to return and contribute to the home region after studies.
Must show religious/social commitment and readiness for interreligious dialogue (non-Christians require recommendation via Catholic partners).
Must submit a complete dossier (passport, degrees/transcripts, grading system note, work certificates, ≥2 academic recommendation letters, church/partner reference, motivation letter, study plan/research proposal, CV without gaps, language proofs, medical certificate, proof of citizenship/residency; admission letter if available).