When considering further education and scholarships, especially ones like those offered by the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), it is common to wonder about eligibility criteria—especially if you already hold a master’s degree. DAAD is known for providing opportunities for international students to study in Germany, but many applicants are often unsure whether having a previous master’s degree disqualifies them from applying for a DAAD-funded master’s program.
This article answers the question; Can a Master’s Degree Holder Apply for DAAD Master’s Scholarship? It also highlights the possibility of applying for a DAAD Master’s Scholarship as a master’s degree holder, clarifying the requirements, exceptions, and overall scholarship structure.
About DAAD Scholarship Programs
DAAD is one of the world’s largest funding organizations for international exchange and higher education. Its mission is to promote academic cooperation between Germany and other countries, primarily through scholarships for international students, academics, and researchers. The organization offers a wide range of scholarships for various degree programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral studies.
The DAAD master’s scholarships are primarily targeted at students who wish to pursue a second degree (master’s or equivalent) in Germany, or for those who have not had any master’s education and are applying for their first postgraduate qualification.
Each scholarship has distinct eligibility requirements, so it is vital to understand which scholarship category aligns with your academic background and career goals.
Can a Master’s Degree Holder Apply for DAAD Master’s Scholarship?
Yes, a master’s degree holder can apply for a DAAD master’s scholarship, but it depends on the specific program and how well the applicant can justify the need for a second master’s degree. DAAD does not automatically disqualify applicants with a previous master’s degree, but candidates must demonstrate that pursuing another master’s is essential for their academic or professional growth. This is particularly relevant for those seeking specialization, changing fields, or addressing new career requirements. Programs like DAAD’s Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) may still consider such applicants if they can show how the second degree aligns with their goals and contributes to their career development or the needs of their home country. Check out the Weidenfeld Hoffmann UK Scholarships 2025 | Fully Funded Master’s Programs at Oxford
General Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Master’s Scholarships
To assess whether a master’s degree holder can apply for a DAAD master’s scholarship, we first need to look at the general eligibility criteria:
- Academic Background: DAAD typically requires applicants to hold a bachelor’s degree when applying for master’s scholarships. The degree should generally not be older than six years at the time of application. Most DAAD programs are designed for students who are continuing their academic education after completing their undergraduate studies.
- Relevance of Previous Studies: DAAD expects applicants to choose programs that align with their previous academic background or career path. Applicants should demonstrate how their chosen master’s program complements their prior studies and contributes to their long-term career goals.
- Professional Experience: For certain scholarships like the EPOS, applicants are expected to have at least two years of professional experience in a field related to the master’s program they are applying for.
- Language Proficiency: Depending on the program, applicants may need to prove proficiency in either English or German. Programs taught in English typically require an IELTS or TOEFL score, while German-taught programs require a corresponding German language certificate (e.g., DSH or TestDaF).
Who is eligible for a Master’s in Germany?
Eligibility for a master’s program in Germany typically requires applicants to have a recognized bachelor’s degree in a related field. Additionally, students must meet the specific admission criteria of the university, which often include a strong academic record, language proficiency (in English or German, depending on the program), and sometimes relevant professional experience. Specific requirements may vary across universities and programs. Also check out the commonwealth master’s scholarship
How much CGPA is required for the DAAD scholarship?
While DAAD does not specify a universal minimum CGPA requirement, competitive applicants generally have a CGPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or higher. The exact CGPA requirement can vary depending on the program and the competition, but a strong academic record is essential for being considered for the DAAD scholarship.
What is the minimum CGPA requirement for a master’s in Germany?
The minimum CGPA required for a master’s in Germany varies by institution and program, but it generally ranges from 2.5 to 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Some highly competitive programs may require a higher CGPA. It’s essential to check the specific requirements of the university and program to which you are applying.
What are the minimum requirements for the DAAD scholarship?
The minimum requirements for the DAAD scholarship include holding a bachelor’s degree with a competitive CGPA, relevant professional experience for certain programs (such as at least two years for the EPOS scholarships), and language proficiency in English or German, depending on the program. Additionally, applicants must submit a strong motivation letter, reference letters, and a proposal that aligns with DAAD’s academic and development goals.
Conclusion
While holding a previous master’s degree does not outright disqualify you from applying for a DAAD-funded master’s program, it does add an extra layer of complexity to your application. DAAD evaluates applications on a case-by-case basis, paying close attention to the necessity and relevance of a second master’s degree in advancing your career or contributing to development goals.
As a master’s degree holder, your chances improve if you can convincingly demonstrate how the second degree complements your prior education, offers new specialization, or significantly enhances your capacity to address challenges in your professional field or home country. The key to success is framing your application around how the second degree enables you to make meaningful contributions, both academically and professionally.
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