What is the DAAD monthly stipend for Nigerian students?

The DAAD monthly stipend for postgraduate students is EUR 934/month (the German social assistance reference rate). This covers living costs. Tuition fees at German public universities are zero, so the stipend is your primary financial support. Health insurance is also covered.

What is the DAAD EPOS programme?

EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) is DAAD's flagship scholarship for students from developing countries including Nigeria. It funds postgraduate study (Masters or PhD) in Germany in fields relevant to development: engineering, agriculture, economics, public health, environmental sciences, and others.

Do I need to speak German to apply for a DAAD scholarship?

Not necessarily. Many DAAD-funded programmes are taught in English. However, some programmes require German language skills. Check the language requirements of the specific programme you are applying to. DAAD also offers German language courses as part of some scholarship packages.

DAAD Scholarships for Nigerian Students 2026: Germany Government Funding Guide

Key figures (2026)
Monthly stipend: EUR 934/month (approximately NGN 1.4M/month)
Tuition: zero at German public universities
Health insurance: covered
Travel allowance: included
Primary source: DAAD (daad.de)

DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst - German Academic Exchange Service) is Germany's primary international scholarship organisation. It funds thousands of international students annually, with Nigerian students among the most successful applicants. Here is what DAAD actually offers and how to apply.

DAAD scholarship programmes for Nigerian students

DAAD offers multiple programmes. The most relevant for Nigerian applicants are:

What it is: Scholarships for postgraduate study (Masters or PhD) in Germany in fields relevant to development.

Eligible fields: Engineering, agriculture, economics, public health, environmental sciences, urban planning, information technology, and others with a development relevance.

What it covers:

Monthly stipend: EUR 934/month
Tuition fees: zero (German public universities)
Health insurance
Travel allowance (return flight)
Study and research allowance

Requirements:

Bachelor's degree with strong academic record
At least 2 years of relevant work experience
Commitment to return to Nigeria after completing the degree
English or German language proficiency (depending on programme)

Application: Through the DAAD portal at https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

2. DAAD Helmut Schmidt Programme

What it is: Scholarships for public policy and good governance studies.

Target: Mid-career professionals from developing countries working in public administration, civil society, or international organisations.

What it covers: Same as EPOS plus a family allowance if applicable.

3. DAAD Research Grants

What it is: Short-term research grants for doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers.

Duration: 1-6 months.

What it covers: Monthly stipend, travel costs, health insurance.

The DAAD application process

Step 1 - Find a programme: Search the DAAD scholarship database at https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/

Step 2 - Find a German university: For most DAAD scholarships, you need to identify a German university and programme before applying. Contact the relevant department directly.

Step 3 - Prepare documents:

Academic transcripts and degree certificates
CV/resume
Motivation letter
Research proposal (for PhD applications)
Two academic reference letters
Language test results
Passport copy

Step 4 - Apply: Most DAAD applications are submitted through the DAAD portal. Deadlines vary by programme - typically October-November for the following academic year.

What makes a strong DAAD application

DAAD prioritises applicants who demonstrate a clear connection between their proposed study and development challenges in their home country. The motivation letter must explain how the degree will contribute to Nigeria's development - not just your personal career goals.

Strong application elements:

Specific research question or professional goal related to Nigerian/African development
Evidence of work experience in a relevant field
Strong academic record (minimum 3.5/4.0 or equivalent)
Clear plan to return to Nigeria after completing the degree

Evidence note

All figures sourced from DAAD at https://www.daad.de/, retrieved October 2026. Stipend amounts are reviewed annually. Verify current requirements on the DAAD website before applying.