Zum Inhalt springen

Applications

Foto von einer Person, die an einem Laptop arbeitet. Darüber ein rotes Overlay.

Application Requirements

  • You are commencing your master’s studies at a public German university/college in the upcoming semester. At the time of your application, your master’s programme has not yet begun. Exception: Applicants from the private Bucerius Law School in Hamburg are eligible to apply for the Master Plus scholarship.
  • At the time of your application, you are no older than 35 years of age.
  • You have completed (or will complete) your bachelor's degree with a 1.7 (EU) or better. Alternatively: you belong to the top 10% of your class (proof is required)
  • You do not already have a master's or equivalent qualification
  • You will be studying full-time and on campus
  • Social engagement is desirable 
  • You are a native German speaker or can provide evidence (DSH Certificate, TestDaf) of very good German language skills (B1)

These are formal application requirements. Due to our principle of equal treatment of all applicants, we cannot grant any exceptions. Therefore, we ask that you refrain from inquiring about possible exceptions.

Required Application Documents

  • completed application form 
  • curriculum vitae (signed), photograph is optional
  • high school diploma/university entrance certificate
  • bachelor's degree certificate including transcript of records; alternatively: current transcript of records from the bachelor's programme
  • confirmation of application or acceptance to intended master's programme
  • motivation letter (max. 4.000 characters)
  • two signed letters of recommendation from university lecturers (the second letter can also relate to a meaningful internship, work experience or social work)
  • statement regarding relevant extracurricular activities (max. 4, proof documents are desirable)
  • financial needs: A table showing the (expected) living expenses, other expenses, and income during the master's programme 
  • for applicants whose first language is not German: Proof of German language skills, at least level B1 or equivalent (DSH certificate, TestDaF, university course, adult education center course, or language certificate from the Goethe Institute).

Application period

Students starting their Master’s degree in the 2026/27 winter semester may apply for a scholarship from May 18 to June 14, 2026. You may only apply if you have not commenced your master's studies at the time of application.

application portal

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, you can find a FAQ with the most common questions regarding the application requirements and the application process (in German).