KAAD Postgraduate Scholarships 2026 in Germany
- Omran Aburayya
- Aug 20
- 3 min read
If you are an academically gifted student from the Global South with a passion for positive change, the KAAD Scholarships for the Spring 2026 intake are now open.
The KAAD (Katholischer Akademischer Ausländer-Dienst) Scholarships invite outstanding students and researchers—particularly those driven by social responsibility and leadership—to pursue Master’s, PhD, or post-doctoral study opportunities in Germany. This fully funded, faith-inspired program supports scholars from developing countries eager to deepen their expertise and return home to make an impact.
🎓 KAAD Scholarship Summary
Location: Germany (including study tracks in selected third or home regions)
Host Institution: Leading German universities and regional partner hubs
Level: Master’s, PhD, and post-doctoral research (including short-term stays)
Target Group: Students from developing or emerging countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, Eastern Europe; Catholic applicants, with openness to interreligious dialogue for non-Catholics
Field of Study: All academic disciplines; emphasis on leadership, development, social and cultural impact
Value & Coverage:
Full tuition coverage
Monthly living stipend
Accommodation support
Comprehensive health insurance
Travel/research grants
German language courses (preparatory or optional)
Access to professional, academic, and faith-based networks
Duration: Varies by track—Master’s/PhD (typically multi-year), post-doctoral or research stays (several months)
Application Deadline: Programme 1: 30 June 2025; other tracks (Programme 2, regional programmes) may have different deadlines—check with local KAAD offices
Start Date: Spring 2026 intake (academic term in Germany)
📚 Scholarship Overview
KAAD offers four main tracks to suit diverse needs:
Programme 1 – Direct applications from home countries: support for Master’s, PhD, or post-doctoral studies in Germany; includes regional or third-country hubs (e.g., Bangkok, Nairobi, Amman)
Programme 2 – For international students already enrolled in postgraduate programs in Germany; applications are routed through Catholic university chaplaincies (KHG/KSG)
Eastern Europe Programme – Tailored for applicants from Eastern/Southeastern Europe, Central Asia, and Caucasus; supports full postgraduate or short-term research stays
Adveniat-KAAD Programme – For Latin American and Caribbean applicants, especially Catholic social leaders; flexible formats (Germany, regional, or hybrid)
These offer structured academic study, language support, mentorship, research opportunities, cultural immersion, and robust alumni networking.
🎁 Benefits
Fully Funded: Covers all essential expenses—tuition, living, accommodation, insurance, travel, and language preparation
Enhanced Integration: Includes German language courses, access to educational seminars, retreats, and mentoring
Leadership & Networking: Connect with KAAD’s faith-driven, global alumni community that supports development initiatives and intercultural dialogue
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should meet the following:
Citizenship of and residence in a developing/emerging country in Africa, Asia, Latin America, Eastern Europe, or the Middle East
At least a completed Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s applicants) or corresponding academic level for PhD/post-doc
Strong academic performance combined with leadership potential and a clear commitment to return home and contribute meaningfully
Belong to the Catholic faith or — if not Catholic — be endorsed by Catholic partners and demonstrate openness to interfaith dialogue
German language skills: at least A2–B1 depending on program; KAAD may provide preparatory course
📝 Application Procedure
Identify the appropriate program track (Programme 1, 2, Eastern Europe, Adveniat-KAAD)
Confirm eligibility and program-specific requirements via the official KAAD website or local partner committee
Prepare necessary documents (see list below)
For Programme 2: submit via the Catholic chaplaincy at your German university; for others: apply through local KAAD partner offices or online as instructed
Submit your application before the deadline—Programme 1: 30 June 2025—others vary
📂 Documents Required:
Academic CV/resume
Transcripts and degree certificates
Motivation letter and statement of developmental commitment
Study or research proposal
Letters of recommendation (academic/community leaders)
Language proficiency proof (German and/or English)
Passport copy and proof of citizenship/residency
Health certificate
Additional documents as stipulated by KAAD or local committee
⭐ Why This Matters
The KAAD Scholarship transcends financial support by investing in leaders committed to holistic development. Through faith-informed values, intercultural programs, and academic excellence, scholars are shaped into agents of positive change. Returning home, they empower their communities—building future-ready societies grounded in ethical leadership and social responsibility.