DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)

DAAD

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Applicants from eligible developing or newly industrialised countries with a relevant first degree and generally at least two years of professional experience

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Scholarships for selected development-related postgraduate courses at German universities; funding generally lasts 12–42 months depending on the course

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Applicants from eligible developing or newly industrialised countries with a relevant first degree and generally at least two years of professional experience
2. Note the deadline. Varies by course - mostly Aug – Dec (the 2026/27 list ran from Mar 2025 to Sep 2026; check each course in the DAAD EPOS deadline list) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Online application; CV; motivation letter; degree and transcript records; employment certificates; language evidence; recommendations as required.
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Course-specific academic selection

Profile of past winners

Varies by course

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

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Tips from our advisors

1. Apply directly according to the deadline of the chosen EPOS course; the DAAD does not use one universal deadline
2. Read the eligibility line by line before you write anything. Most rejections are eligibility mismatches, not weak essays.
3. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
4. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
5. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.
6. Start at least 8 to 12 weeks early. Certified transcripts, translations and referee letters usually take longer than expected.
7. Ask your referees at least 4 weeks ahead and give them your CV, your draft SOP and the deadline.

Quick answers

Who can apply for DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)?

Applicants from eligible developing or newly industrialised countries with a relevant first degree and generally at least two years of professional experience

What does DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) cover?

€992/month for graduates; doctoral rate according to current DAAD terms

When is the deadline for DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)?

Varies by course - mostly Aug – Dec (the 2026/27 list ran from Mar 2025 to Sep 2026; check each course in the DAAD EPOS deadline list) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)?

Host countries: Germany.

What documents do I need for DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)?

Online application; CV; motivation letter; degree and transcript records; employment certificates; language evidence; recommendations as required.

How are applicants selected for DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS)?

Course-specific academic selection

How much work is the DAAD Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) application?

High