University of Freiburg DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2026 in Germany

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship at the University of Freiburg offers a fully funded opportunity for young professionals from developing countries to pursue a master’s degree in Germany. This program is part of Germany’s broader effort to promote academic exchange and support sustainable development through education.

Application Timeline for 2026

Here are the important dates for the 2026 intake

Application opens in July 2025
Online eligibility check deadline is expected in early October 2025
Application deadline is October 15 2025
Final results are usually announced by February 2026
Classes will begin in October 2026

Who Can Apply

To be considered for the scholarship you must meet the following criteria

Be a citizen of a developing country listed by the OECD DAC
Hold a bachelor’s degree completed within the last six years
Have at least two years of full-time professional experience after graduation
Have not lived in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the application
Show strong academic performance typically being in the top third of your class
Provide proof of English proficiency such as IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL 95
If you already have a master’s degree you must explain clearly why another one is necessary

Eligible Degree Programs

At the University of Freiburg the DAAD EPOS scholarship supports several master’s programs especially those related to sustainable development. Some of the main eligible programs include

Environmental Governance MEG
Renewable Energy Management
Forest and Environmental Sciences
Global Urban Health

All programs are taught in English and emphasize practical skills research and policy making.

Scholarship Benefits

The DAAD EPOS scholarship is fully funded and covers the following

Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the program
Monthly living stipend of around 934 euros for master’s students
Health accident and liability insurance
Round trip travel allowance to and from Germany
Additional benefits such as rent support and family allowance if applicable

This package ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies without financial stress.

Required Documents

To apply for the University of Freiburg DAAD EPOS Scholarship you must submit the following

Completed DAAD EPOS application form
University of Freiburg application form for the selected program
Motivational letter tailored to the program and your development goals
Detailed CV in Europass format
Academic transcripts and degree certificates
Proof of relevant work experience minimum two years full time
Two recommendation letters one academic and one professional
Proof of English language skills
Signed checklist provided by DAAD
APS certificate if you are from India China or Vietnam

All documents should be submitted as a single PDF file. Recommendation letters must be sent directly by your referees to the university.

Application Process Step by Step

Here is a breakdown of the steps involved in applying

Step 1 Check Eligibility

Use the online self-check tool provided by the university to confirm whether you qualify. This step is optional but highly recommended.

Step 2 Prepare Documents

Gather and organize all required documents. Make sure your transcripts and certificates are officially translated into English if they are not already.

Step 3 Submit Application

Send your complete application as one PDF file through the method required by the specific program. Some programs may use an online portal while others accept email submissions.

Step 4 University Review

The university will assess your application first. If selected you will be nominated to DAAD for the final decision.

Step 5 Final Selection

DAAD makes the final decision and notifies selected candidates usually by February.

Step 6 Begin Studies

If accepted you will travel to Germany and start your studies in October 2026.

Tips for a Strong Application

To improve your chances of receiving the scholarship follow these tips

Write a clear motivation letter that connects your goals with the study program
Highlight work experience related to sustainable development or public policy
Ensure your CV is complete and follows the Europass format
Ask your referees to write detailed and personalized recommendation letters
Apply early to avoid technical issues and delays
Make sure all documents are complete and well organized

Why Study at University of Freiburg

The University of Freiburg is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Germany. It is particularly known for its research in environmental sciences and sustainability. The university is located near the Black Forest offering a peaceful and inspiring setting for academic life.

Its international programs are highly interdisciplinary combining science economics law and policy. Graduates of programs like MEG often go on to work with the United Nations international NGOs governments or pursue further research.

What Happens After Graduation

After completing your master’s degree you will have several options

Apply for a job in Germany or elsewhere under a work visa
Return to your home country to work in government academia or development organizations
Pursue a PhD in Germany or another country
Apply for further funding or post-study residence in Germany

The skills and knowledge you gain will make you a valuable contributor to development efforts in your home country and globally.

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