The DAAD Berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026 presents a remarkable opportunity for driven students from Eastern and Southeastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia to pursue studies in Berlin. As a key component of the International Excellence Scholarship Program (IES), this scholarship supports high-achieving students in spending a semester at leading German universities, including Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR Berlin), and the University of Potsdam. During their six-month stay, scholarship recipients will actively participate in both academic and cultural activities, gaining firsthand exposure to German culture.

Beyond academic pursuits, the IES program mandates a full-time internship lasting at least eight weeks. This internship aims to provide invaluable international work experience, fostering the development of essential personal and professional skills. The programS structure ensures that scholarship holders not only benefit from the academic rigor of Germany’s top universities but also immerse themselves in practical, real-world experiences, thereby enhancing their future career prospects. The blend of demanding academic coursework and hands-on internships makes this scholarship an excellent choice for students striving for excellence in their respective fields.

The DAAD Berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026 offers more than just financial assistance; it provides an immersive experience in one of Europe’s most dynamic cities. through the IES program, students will deepen their academic knowledge and actively contribute to shaping the program’s activities. From cultural events to social gatherings, scholarship holders will experience the rich diversity of German culture. This scholarship serves as a comprehensive platform for students to broaden their horizons, cultivate intercultural skills, and establish a global network, making it an unparalleled opportunity for enterprising students.

Key Details of the DAAD berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026

• Host Country: Germany
• Host Organization: DEED
• Study Level: Bachelor’s, Master’s & PhD
• Eligibility: International Students

The program’s structure ensures that scholarship holders not only gain knowledge from some of Germany’s best universities but also immerse themselves in real-world experiences.

Benefits of the DAAD Berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026

• Recipients will receive monthly pocket money.
• Health insurance costs will be reimbursed.
• Copernicus Berlin will cover costs for accommodation, enrollment, liability insurance, educational trips, social events, administrative aspects, welcome packages, cultural events, international seminars, counseling and mentoring, and workshops.
• Travel costs will be the responsibility of the participants.

Eligibility Criteria for the DAAD International Excellence scholarship 2026

• Open to students from eastern and Southeastern Europe, the Caucasus, and Central Asia.
• Applicants must demonstrate above-average academic grades.
• Must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program at a higher education institution.
• Applicants must be under 28 years old.
• Proficiency in German or English at a minimum of B1 level is required.
• Candidates should demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to participating in the program’s academic and cultural activities.
• Must be available for a full 6-month stay in Berlin, including a mandatory internship.

List of Eligible Countries

• Albania
• Armenia
• Azerbaijan
• Belarus
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Georgia
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Kosovo
• Moldova
• Mongolia
• Montenegro
• Northern Macedonia
• Russia
• Serbia
• Tajikistan
• Turkmenistan
• turkey
• Ukraine
• uzbekistan

Required Documents

• Completed Request Form
• Academic Transcripts
• Proof of Enrollment
• CV/Resume
• Language Proficiency Certificates (minimum B1 in German or English)
• Passport Copy

Deadline

The application deadline for the DAAD Berlin International Excellence scholarship 2026 in Germany is June 30, 2025.

How to Apply for the DAAD Berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, including academic qualifications, age limit, and language proficiency.
• Prepare Documents: Gather all required documents such as academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, CV, language proficiency certificates, and a statement of motivation.
• Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form available on the DAAD website or through the Copernicus Berlin portal.
• Submit Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary documents as specified in the application guidelines.
• Submit Application: Submit the completed application form and supporting documents by the deadline.
• Await Decision: Monitor your application status and await the scholarship decision. If selected, follow the instructions for finalizing the scholarship and preparing for your stay in Berlin.