Location Description
Germany, officially known as the Federal Republic of Germany, is a Central European country that holds significant geopolitical and economic importance. With its strategic location between the Baltic and North seas in the north and the Alps in the south, Germany is bordered by several countries, including Denmark, Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria, Switzerland, France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Berlin serves as the nation’s capital and largest city, while Frankfurt acts as a prominent financial center. The Ruhr region is the largest urban area in the country.
The roots of German history can be traced back to classical antiquity when various Germanic tribes inhabited the northern territories. The region was referred to as Germania before the year 100 AD. In 962, the Kingdom of Germany played a significant role in the Holy Roman Empire. During the 16th century, northern German regions became the focal point of the Protestant Reformation. Following the Napoleonic Wars and the subsequent dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire in 1806, the German Confederation was established in 1815.
The formal process of unifying Germany into a modern nation-state began on August 18, 1866, with the signing of the North German Confederation Treaty. This treaty established the Prussia-led North German Confederation, which later evolved into the German Empire in 1871. The aftermath of World War I and the German Revolution of 1918-1919 led to the formation of the semi-presidential Weimar Republic. However, the rise of the Nazi regime in 1933 resulted in the establishment of a totalitarian dictatorship, leading to World War II and the horrific events of the Holocaust.
After the conclusion of World War II in Europe and a period of Allied occupation, Germany was divided into two separate political entities in 1949. The Federal Republic of Germany, commonly known as West Germany, and the German Democratic Republic, East Germany, emerged with limited sovereignty. The city of Berlin retained its unique status under the Four Power agreement. The Federal Republic of Germany played a crucial role as a founding member of the European Economic Community and the European Union, while the German Democratic Republic existed as a communist state within the Eastern Bloc and was a member of the Warsaw Pact.
Following the fall of the communist government in East Germany, the process of German reunification commenced. On October 3, 1990, the former East German states joined the Federal Republic of Germany, resulting in a federal parliamentary republic. This historical event marked the reunification of Germany as a whole and represented a significant milestone in its modern history.
The diverse and complex history of Germany has shaped its current political, social, and economic landscape. Today, Germany stands as a major global player, renowned for its technological advancements, strong industrial base, and contributions to various fields such as science, engineering, and the arts. With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, and commitment to innovation, Germany continues to be a leading nation in Europe and an influential force on the international stage.
Benefit Description
DAAD
Masters/PhD Degree
Deadline: Aug-Oct 2023 (annual)
Study in: Germany
Next course starts AY 2024/2025
The scholarships provided by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offer graduates from developing and newly industrialized countries the opportunity to pursue a postgraduate or Master’s degree at a recognized German university. In exceptional cases, doctoral degrees are also considered. The program is open to candidates from all disciplines who have a minimum of two years of professional experience.
Host Institution(s):
Various German universities offering postgraduate courses related to development.
Level/Field(s) of Study:
The scholarships cover Master’s or PhD courses in the following fields: Economic Sciences/Business Administration/Political Economics, Development Cooperation, Engineering and Related Sciences, Mathematics, Regional and Urban Planning, Agricultural and Forest Sciences, Natural and Environmental Sciences, Medicine and Public Health, Social Sciences, Education and Law, and Media Studies.
- List of all Postgraduate courses with application deadlines 2023/24.
- List of all Postgraduate courses with application deadlines 2024/25.
Number of Scholarships:
Limited
Target Group:
Students from eligible countries
Scholarship Value/Inclusions/Duration:
The scholarships include monthly payments of 861 euros for graduates or 1,200 euros for doctoral candidates. They also cover health, accident, and personal liability insurance expenses, as well as a travel allowance unless already covered by the home country or another funding source.
The duration of the scholarships is 12 to 24 months for Master’s programs (depending on the specific institution) and 42 months for PhD programs.
Eligibility:
Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Currently employed by a public authority, state, or private company in a developing country, involved in planning and executing projects related to technological, economic, or social development policies.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (typically four years of study).
- Demonstrate exceptional academic performance (upper third) and possess at least two years of relevant professional experience after obtaining their Bachelor’s degree. Academic degrees should generally not exceed six years of age.
- For courses taught in German (includes a 6-month German language course): Must pass the language examination DSH 2 or TestDaF 4 before starting the program. Minimum German language level of B1 at the time of application is required, supported by a certificate.
- For courses taught in English: Provide proof of adequate language skills, as per the respective course requirements.
Application instructions:
Applications should be submitted directly to the chosen course. Refer to the course websites for the application procedure, deadline, and required documents. Deadlines typically fall between August and October 2023.
It is important to review the FAQs and the 2024/2025 brochure, as well as visit the official website to access the application form and obtain comprehensive information about applying for this scholarship.