Great news for Nigerian graduates looking to study abroad! The DAAD EPOS Scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year is now open at Freie Universität Berlin, Germany. This fully funded scholarship is a life-changing opportunity for professionals from developing countries, including Nigeria, to pursue a Master’s degree or, in rare cases, a PhD in fields that support sustainable development. If you dream of studying in one of Germany’s top universities and making a difference in your community, this is for you. Here’s everything you need to know about this scholarship.
What is the DAAD EPOS Scholarship?
The DAAD EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses) Scholarship is funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). It is designed to train future leaders from developing countries like Nigeria to tackle global challenges such as poverty, poor education, and health issues. The scholarship supports postgraduate studies in fields that promote sustainable development, equipping professionals with the skills to drive positive change in their home countries.
Freie Universität Berlin, a leading public research university in Germany’s capital city, is one of the institutions offering this scholarship. Known for its academic excellence and global outlook, the university provides a vibrant environment for international students to grow and succeed.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship at Freie Universität Berlin, you must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: You must be a citizen of a developing country. Nigeria is included on the list of eligible countries. Check the full list on the DAAD website.
- Education: You need a Bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year program) in a relevant field. Your academic results should be above average (in the top third of your class).
- Work Experience: You must have at least two years of professional work experience after your first degree. Internships or voluntary roles do not count.
- Motivation: You must show a strong commitment to contributing to development goals in Nigeria after completing your studies.
- Language Skills: Most programs are taught in English, so you need to provide proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL iBT 80, IELTS 6.0, or equivalent). Some programs may require German language skills (minimum B1 level at the time of application). If your program is in German, you must pass the DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 exam before starting your studies.
- Residency: You must not have lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the time of application.
- Additional Note: If you already have a Master’s degree, you must provide a strong reason for applying for another postgraduate degree.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The DAAD EPOS Scholarship is fully funded and provides generous support to help you focus on your studies. Here’s what you get:
- Monthly Stipend: Master’s students receive €934 per month, while PhD students get €1,300 per month.
- Travel Allowance: Your flight tickets to and from Germany are covered.
- Insurance: Health, accident, and personal liability insurance are included.
- Tuition Fees: All tuition fees are paid for (where applicable).
- German Language Course: A compulsory two-month German language course is provided before your program starts, even for English-taught courses.
- Family Support: If applicable, you may receive additional support for rent or family members.
The scholarship duration ranges from 12 to 42 months, depending on the program you choose.
Available Study Programs
Freie Universität Berlin offers several Master’s programs under the DAAD EPOS Scholarship, all taught in English and focused on development-related fields. Some of the programs include:
- Economics & Business: Master in International and Development Economics (MIDE) at HTW Berlin, Development Economics at Göttingen.
- Development Cooperation: Development Management at Ruhr University Bochum.
- Engineering & Related Sciences: Hydro Science at TU Dresden, WASTE at Stuttgart, SEDev at Flensburg.
- Regional & Urban Planning: Urban Management at TU Berlin, SPRING at Dortmund.
- Agriculture & Forestry: AgEcon at Hohenheim, Tropical Forestry at TU Dresden.
- Natural & Environmental Sciences: ISATEC at Bremen, Environmental Governance (MEG) at Freiburg.
- Public Health & Medicine: MSc in International Health at Charité Berlin, Global Urban Health at Freiburg.
- Law, Media & Education: MIPLC at Munich, International Media Studies at DW Akademie.
You must apply to one of these EPOS-approved programs at Freie Universität Berlin or its partner institutions. Check the full list of programs in the DAAD EPOS 2026/27 Brochure.
How to Apply
Applying for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship is straightforward, but you need to follow the steps carefully:
- Choose a Program: Visit the DAAD EPOS Programs 2026/2027 page to explore the available programs. Select an EPOS-approved program at Freie Universität Berlin or its partner institutions.
- Visit the Program Website: Each program has its own application portal and instructions. Check the official website of your chosen program (linked on the DAAD page) for details.
- Prepare Your Documents: You will need the following:
- Completed DAAD application form (available on the program’s website).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Letter of motivation explaining your interest in the program and the scholarship.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts.
- Proof of at least two years of professional work experience (e.g., employment letters).
- Proof of English or German proficiency (depending on the program).
- Two recommendation letters (one from your university and one from your employer, with letterhead, signature, and official stamp).
- Additional documents may be required by the specific program (check the program’s website).
- Submit Your Application: Apply directly to the university’s program through their admission portal. Make sure to indicate that you are applying for the DAAD EPOS Scholarship. Applications sent to DAAD directly will not be accepted.
- Meet the Deadline: Application deadlines vary by program, ranging from August 31, 2025, to March 15, 2026. Check the specific deadline for your chosen program on the university’s website.
For example, if you’re applying for the MSc in International Health at Charité Berlin, submit your application by email to mscih-enquiry@charite.de between July 1 and October 15, 2025. No hard copies or research proposals are required for this program.
Why Study at Freie Universität Berlin?
Freie Universität Berlin is one of Germany’s top universities, known for its research excellence and international community. Located in Berlin, a vibrant and historic city, the university offers a rich academic and cultural experience. Studying here will expose you to world-class education, expert lecturers, and a global network of professionals. Plus, the DAAD EPOS Scholarship ensures you can focus on your studies without financial worries.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Gather your documents and prepare your application well before the deadline.
- Tailor Your Motivation Letter: Explain how the program aligns with your career goals and how you plan to contribute to Nigeria’s development.
- Check Language Requirements: Confirm whether your program requires English or German proficiency and prepare your test scores in advance.
- Contact the Program Office: If you have questions, reach out to the program’s admission office for clarification.
- Proofread Your Application: Ensure all documents are complete and error-free before submission.
What Happens After You Apply?
After submitting your application, the university will review it and shortlist candidates. If selected, your application will be forwarded to DAAD for the final scholarship decision. Successful candidates will be notified before the program starts in 2026. If you’re awarded the scholarship, you’ll attend a two-month German language course before beginning your degree.
Don’t Miss This Opportunity!
The DAAD EPOS Scholarship at Freie Universität Berlin is a golden chance for Nigerian professionals to gain advanced education and become change-makers in their communities. With full funding, top-quality education, and a focus on sustainable development, this scholarship can transform your career and life.
For more details and to apply, visit the DAAD EPOS Programs 2026/2027 page or the Freie Universität Berlin scholarship page. You can also check the DAAD EPOS 2026/27 Brochure for the complete list of programs and deadlines.
Apply now and take the first step toward a brighter future! If you need help with your application, consider reaching out to trusted scholarship mentors or the university’s admission office. Good luck