Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026 Germany (Fully Funded MBA)

Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026 Germany (Fully Funded MBA in SME Promotion and Training)

The Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026 in Germany offers an outstanding opportunity for professionals from developing countries to pursue a fully funded Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion and Training (SEPT) at the world-renowned Leipzig University.

This program is part of the DAAD EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) initiative — one of Germany’s most prestigious scholarship schemes, designed to empower future leaders with the skills and vision to drive sustainable economic growth in their home countries.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Leipzig University DAAD EPOS SEPT MBA Scholarship 2026 — from benefits and eligibility to application steps, deadlines, and career prospects.

About Leipzig University and the SEPT Program

Leipzig University, established in 1409, stands as one of Europe’s oldest and most respected institutions of higher learning. Known for its deep academic traditions and modern innovation, Leipzig fosters excellence in economics, management, and international development.

The SEPT (Small Enterprise Promotion and Training) program, offered by the Faculty of Economics and Management Science, focuses on the development and promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) — key drivers of economic and social progress across the globe.

The MBA in SEPT blends practical management training with development-oriented research. It equips professionals to design, implement, and evaluate SME-support programs in developing economies, bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship supports this mission by providing comprehensive financial assistance to talented professionals committed to advancing entrepreneurship and sustainable growth in their communities.

Program Overview: Key Details

Financial Benefits of the DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026

The DAAD EPOS Scholarship is one of the most generous postgraduate awards globally. It covers all essential academic and living expenses during your stay in Germany, allowing scholars to fully focus on academic excellence and professional development.

Here’s what it includes:

• Full Tuition Coverage: 100% of tuition fees are covered.

• Monthly Living Stipend: Financial support for day-to-day living costs.

• Travel Allowance: Coverage or reimbursement for international airfare to and from Germany.

• Rent Subsidy: Support for accommodation expenses in Leipzig.

• Family Allowance: Additional funds for scholars with dependents (spouse or children).

• Health, Accident, and Liability Insurance: Comprehensive coverage throughout the program.

This financial security allows scholars to concentrate fully on their studies and research, while also engaging in cultural and networking activities across Europe.

Academic Focus and Curriculum Highlights

The MBA in Small and Medium Enterprise Promotion and Training (SEPT) is built on a practical and research-driven framework designed to strengthen innovation and enterprise growth in developing economies.

Key learning areas include:

• SME Development and Support Mechanisms

• International Entrepreneurship and Innovation Management

• Business Environment Analysis in Emerging Markets

• Financial Access and Strategic Management

• Project Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation

• Marketing and International Business Development

• Research Methodologies and Data-Driven Decision Making

Students also complete a Master’s Thesis, typically focused on sustainable SME strategies, local economic development, or entrepreneurship policy.

This combination of theoretical knowledge and applied learning prepares graduates to design impactful solutions for real-world business and development challenges.

Eligibility Criteria for the Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026

To qualify for this prestigious scholarship, applicants must meet both academic and professional requirements outlined by DAAD and Leipzig University.

Academic Requirements

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree (minimum 4 years or equivalent to 180+ ECTS credits).

• Demonstrate strong academic performance in economics, management, or related fields.

Professional Experience

• Have at least two years of full-time work experience relevant to SME development, entrepreneurship, or economic growth.

• Professional experience must be after completion of the Bachelor’s degree.

Language Proficiency

• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 80

• IELTS Academic: Minimum 6.0

• Candidates who studied previously in English or are native English speakers may be exempt.

Nationality

• Must be a citizen of a developing country as listed in the official DAAD EPOS guidelines.

Additional Attributes

• Commitment to sustainable development and entrepreneurship.

• Motivation to apply learning outcomes toward advancing the SME ecosystem in the home country.

Required Application Documents

All documents must be submitted in PDF format and clearly labeled. Incomplete or incorrectly formatted applications will not be considered.

Checklist of Required Documents:

1. DAAD Application Form (completed and signed)

2. Motivation Letter (max 2 pages)

3. Curriculum Vitae (CV) in Europass format

4. Degree Certificates and Academic Transcripts

5. Work Experience Certificates (minimum 2 years post-graduation)

6. Employer Recommendation Letter

7. Proof of English Proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)

8. DAAD Checklist confirming completeness

9. Passport Copy (photo page)

10. APS Certificate (required for applicants from China or Vietnam)

💡 Tip: Use a consistent naming format (e.g., “YourName_Degree.pdf”) for all files to ensure clarity.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Follow these five steps carefully to submit a strong and complete application for the Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026.

Step 1: Research the Program and Eligibility

Review the SEPT program structure and DAAD EPOS eligibility to confirm you meet all academic, professional, and language requirements.

Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents

Gather, translate (if necessary), and certify your documents in advance. Double-check that all are up to date and clearly legible.

Step 3: Apply Directly to Leipzig University

Submit your complete application package directly to Leipzig University, clearly indicating that you are applying for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship.

Step 4: Complete the DAAD Application Form

Download and fill out the DAAD Application for Development-Related Postgraduate Courses, then attach it to your Leipzig University application.

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

• Application opens: August 1, 2025

• Application closes: October 15, 2025
  Late or incomplete applications are not accepted — apply early to avoid issues.

Selection Process and Timeline

The evaluation process is thorough and merit-based, ensuring that only the most qualified candidates are selected.

Stages of Selection:

1. Initial Screening: Leipzig University verifies academic qualifications and motivation.

2. DAAD Review: The DAAD panel conducts the final selection.

3. Notification: Successful candidates are informed in mid-2026.

4. Program Start: Classes begin in October 2026.

Tips for a Successful Application

Start Early: Begin preparing your documents and writing your motivation letter months in advance.
Customize Your Motivation Letter: Clearly link your career goals to the SEPT program’s focus areas.
Show Your Impact: Explain how your MBA studies will contribute to sustainable development or SME growth in your country.
Get Strong References: Choose supervisors or employers who can attest to your professional achievements.
Proofread Thoroughly: Ensure all forms and documents are accurate, signed, and formatted correctly.

Why Choose the SEPT Program at Leipzig University?

The MBA in SEPT stands out as one of the most internationally recognized postgraduate programs in SME development. Here’s why it’s an ideal choice:

• Historic University: Leipzig University — over 600 years of academic excellence.

• Development-Focused Curriculum: Designed for professionals committed to sustainable growth.

• Strong Career Outcomes: Graduates occupy leadership positions in NGOs, consulting, and government.

• Global Networking: Join an active DAAD alumni and SME innovation network worldwide.

• Comprehensive Funding: The DAAD EPOS Scholarship removes all financial barriers.

Career Prospects After Graduation

Graduates of the Leipzig DAAD EPOS SEPT MBA gain skills that are highly valued across both public and private sectors. Typical career pathways include:

• Government Development Agencies

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs)

• SME Development Centers and Business Incubators

• International Consulting Firms

• Entrepreneurial Ventures and Startups

• Academic or Research Institutions

Armed with this MBA, alumni often become agents of change, promoting sustainable business environments and driving innovation in developing economies.

Final Thoughts

The Leipzig University DAAD EPOS SEPT Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded) is more than just a scholarship — it’s a launchpad for aspiring professionals who want to drive meaningful economic transformation in their communities.

By blending academic rigor, practical experience, and full financial support, this program empowers future leaders to build resilient SME ecosystems and promote sustainable growth.

If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship, innovation, and development — this scholarship is your path to becoming a global changemaker.

Official Link:

For further details, please visit official weabsite.