Financing studies in Germany can be obtained from the German foundation
As Deutsche Welle notes, among applicants from Ukraine, Russia, and other CIS countries, the most popular remain programs for master's and doctoral students, as well as university language courses. Every year, about 500 applications are submitted for each of these scholarships, but only a few dozen candidates are ultimately selected. All participants have a chance to win the competition; the main thing is to properly prepare the necessary documents.
Usually, such programs require a standard set of documents: a completed application form, a resume, a motivation letter, a recommendation from a university professor, a copy of the diploma with transcript, international language certificates, employer references, certificates of participation in conferences, internships, and practical training. However, requirements may vary. What nuances should applicants keep in mind?
Master's Scholarship
DAAD offers several scholarships for postgraduate study for the 2017/2018 academic year. In addition to the support program for graduates of all specialties, the foundation has special offers for economists and representatives of creative professions – artists, architects, designers, musicians, actors, and directors.
The scholarship for postgraduate study for university graduates of all specialties is 750 euros per month and includes partial reimbursement of travel expenses and health insurance. Applicants can be not only graduates who received their diploma no more than six years ago, but also final-year students at domestic universities.
Before submitting an application, it is necessary to select three master's programs at different public universities in Germany and ensure that the language certificate and previously obtained diploma meet the universities' requirements. Applications are accepted until the end of November 2017 by mail and via the online portal. The committee announces the results of the competition in the spring and invites potential applicants for a final interview.
Language Course Scholarship
Those who have not yet completed their bachelor's degree can go to Germany for summer university courses. Applicants must be over 18 years old and have completed at least their second year of study. In addition, applications are also accepted from young German language teachers under the age of 32.
The scholarship amount is 850 euros plus reimbursement of travel expenses. The amount depends on the applicant's place of residence. Residents of the European part of Russia receive 275 euros, the Asian part – 675 euros, and Ukrainians receive 250 euros. Health insurance for all participants is paid by the foundation.
Before participating in the competition, candidates choose any language or regional studies course at a public university that takes place in Germany during the summer and lasts more than 18 days. Applicants must already have a German language level of B1 and an internationally recognized certificate. An exception is made for students of technical and natural science faculties at regional universities – they can apply even with level A2. The committee selects students with good academic performance and convincing motivation. Documents are accepted until autumn 2017.
Doctoral Scholarships
For young scientists, DAAD provides short-term and annual scholarships. First, doctoral students or master's graduates must find a supervisor in Germany who agrees to oversee their research project. In addition to written confirmation from the German institute, a recommendation from a professor – the former thesis supervisor or university teacher – is required. Before submitting an application, applicants must prepare a project description and a work schedule. Otherwise, the package of documents does not differ from the standard set. Applications are accepted until mid-November.
The amount of payments depends on the scholarship holder's status: university graduates can expect 750 euros per month, while doctoral students and PhD holders will receive 1000 euros. In addition, the foundation may partially reimburse housing and travel expenses. If necessary, before starting work on the project, DAAD pays for language courses and participation in a German language proficiency exam – for example, for TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat certificates.