Freie Universität Berlin DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2026: Fully Funded Postgraduate Opportunities in Germany
Are you a professional from a developing nation seeking to advance your expertise on a global stage? The DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2026–2027 at Freie Universität Berlin offer a remarkable chance to pursue a Master’s or PhD entirely funded — tuition, stipend, travel, and insurance — designed for committed individuals ready to contribute to sustainable development in their home countries.
This scholarship scheme aims to empower future change‑makers who are passionate about sustainable progress, good governance, environmental management, public health, economic development, and social transformation. It invites applicants with professional experience and a strong motivation to return home and make a difference.
Why Choose Freie Universität Berlin?
Established in 1948, Freie Universität Berlin stands as a leading German research university, located in the vibrant heart of Berlin. As of the Winter Semester 2023/2024, the university enrolls around 38,564 students — with nearly 22% (approx. 8,451) being international students — creating a truly cosmopolitan and globally connected academic community.
In international rankings, Freie Universität Berlin consistently performs well: ranked 97th worldwide in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, 104th in the 2025 Times Higher Education (THE) Rankings, and 58th in the CWUR 2024 global rankings. This recognition confirms its reputation as one of Germany’s top three universities according to CWUR.
The institution is particularly strong in humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and interdisciplinary studies. Because of its inclusion in Germany’s prestigious Excellence Initiative, students benefit from cutting‑edge resources, distinguished faculty, and a stimulating academic environment that encourages innovation and critical thinking.
Overview of the DAAD EPOS Scholarship
The DAAD EPOS (Development‑Related Postgraduate Courses) program is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). It supports postgraduate education — both Master’s and PhD — for applicants from eligible developing or newly industrialized nations who are committed to applying their learning toward sustainable development in their home countries.
The main aim is to build capacity: to develop professionals who can lead initiatives in policy, governance, environment, public health, development economics, and social welfare — thereby contributing to progress and stability in their societies.
Eligible Fields of Study
At Freie Universität Berlin, EPOS‑approved postgraduate courses cover a range of development‑related disciplines. These fields align with global development priorities and aim to equip scholars with knowledge and skills to address real‑world challenges. Some of the eligible areas include:
| Field of Study | Focus / Relevance |
|---|---|
| Public Policy & Good Governance | Policy design, transparency, institutional development, governance reforms |
| Environmental & Resource Management | Sustainable resource use, climate adaptation, conservation policies |
| Political Science & Global Studies | International relations, conflict resolution, global governance, human rights |
| Public Health & Social Medicine | Health systems, epidemiology, social medicine, health policy for developing regions |
| Development Studies & Economics | Economic development, poverty reduction, sustainable growth strategies |
Note: Only courses formally approved under the EPOS list are eligible. Please check the official DAAD EPOS 2026/27 brochure or the EPOS database for the most current list.
Scholarship Benefits
If selected, you’ll receive a comprehensive package covering your academic and living needs to ensure you can focus fully on your studies and development goals:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly stipend | €992 for Master’s students; €1,300 for PhD candidates |
| Tuition fees | Fully covered – you pay nothing for course fees |
| Travel allowance | Support for one round‑trip journey (if eligible) |
| Health, accident & liability insurance | Comprehensive coverage during study period |
| Accommodation / housing support | Assistance provided; special provisions for family or dependents when applicable |
The funding duration typically spans 12–24 months for Master’s students and may extend up to 42 months for PhD candidates — giving you sufficient time to complete rigorous academic work and research projects.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the DAAD EPOS Scholarships at Freie Universität Berlin, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be nationals of a developing or newly industrialized country (as listed by DAAD).
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree — normally a minimum of four years of academic study or an equivalent qualification.
- Have at least two years of relevant post‑qualification professional experience (work or applied project experience).
- Demonstrate a strong academic record along with a convincing motivation to work in development‑related fields.
- Express genuine intent to return to your home country after studies to contribute toward societal, economic, or environmental progress.
- Meet language requirements — courses may require proficiency in English or German depending on the program.
- Applicants should have completed their most recent degree not more than six years prior to the application date (unless specified otherwise).
Application Procedure
If you meet the above criteria and wish to apply, follow these steps carefully to maximize your chances of success:
- Identify and select an EPOS‑approved program at Freie Universität Berlin that aligns with your career goals and field of interest.
- Submit your application directly through the department’s official admissions portal.
- Prepare and upload the necessary documentation, including:
- A completed DAAD application form.
- A compelling motivation letter demonstrating the relevance of your studies to development challenges in your country.
- Your résumé or CV — preferably following Europass format for clarity and standardization.
- All academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor and any other higher degrees).
- Proof of at least two years of relevant professional or project experience.
- Language proficiency certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or German language certificates if course demands).
- Two academic or professional reference letters endorsing your application.
- Check deadlines carefully. Many programs begin application cycles in October and conclude by the end of the calendar year. However, deadlines vary by department and course — always refer to official program pages to confirm deadlines.
Application Deadlines
Because multiple departments and programs are involved, the application deadline depends on the chosen course. Typically, applications open around October each year, with various closing dates up to December or early January depending on the department. Always refer to the EPOS program list and the specific Freie Universität Berlin course page for precise dates before initiating your application.
Conclusion
The DAAD EPOS Scholarships at Freie Universität Berlin represent an outstanding opportunity for dedicated professionals from developing countries to elevate their academic credentials, build internationally recognized expertise, and acquire tools to drive meaningful development back home. With full financial backing — covering tuition, living stipend, travel, insurance, and more — you get to concentrate fully on your studies and vision for change.
If you aspire to become a leader in public policy, environmental management, social medicine, development economics, or governance — this scholarship can set you on a powerful path. Begin your journey toward becoming a change agent and making an impact globally and locally.
For official information and to start your application, please visit the official DAAD EPOS Scholarship page: www2.daad.de
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