DAAD Double Degree Scholarships 2026 – Study for Free in Germany

Scholarship Description

The DAAD Double Degree Scholarship supports the development and implementation of integrated international degree programs with shared curricula between German and foreign partner universities. The program enables groups of high-performing German and international students to study alternately at the German and international partner universities, earning both national degrees (Joint Degree or Double Degree).

The program aims to strengthen the exchange of teachers and learners and make a sustainable contribution to the development and consolidation of international structures at German universities. Students benefit from a truly global education, gaining two degrees, two perspectives, and a worldwide network.

The scholarship program is structured in three phases: Preparation Phase, Funding Phase, and Follow-up Funding (after eight years of funding in the Funding Phase).

Scholarship Location

The scholarship supports study at German universities in cooperation with international partner universities worldwide. Students study alternately at the German host university and the partner university abroad, earning degrees from both institutions.

Scholarship Deadline

The application deadline for the Double Degree Program is October 15, 2026. The program announcement was published on June 15, 2026.

Host Institution

DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst / German Academic Exchange Service) – the world's largest funding organisation for the international exchange of students and researchers. The program is implemented in cooperation with German state and state-recognised universities and their international partner institutions.

Level and Fields of Study

Levels: Bachelor's and Master's degree programs.

Fields: All academic disciplines are eligible. The program supports integrated international study programs with shared curricula. Priority is given to programs that:

• Strengthen international exchange between teachers and learners
• Contribute to the development of international structures at German universities
• Offer students the opportunity to earn two national degrees (Double Degree or Joint Degree)

Target Group

The program targets Bachelor and Master students from Germany and partner countries. It supports groups of high-performing German and international students who wish to study alternately at the German university and the international partner institution, earning two degrees.

Note: Due to the Russian attack on Ukraine, the DAAD has suspended all institutional forms of cooperation with partners in the Russian Federation and Belarus. Project funding applications with partner institutions in these countries are not possible.

Scholarship Duration & Amount

Duration: The program is structured in three phases:

• Preparation Phase: For developing and preparing the international degree program
• Funding Phase: For implementation and ongoing operation
• Follow-up Funding: Available after eight years of funding in the Funding Phase

Scholarship benefits include:

• Student mobility funding – support for students studying at the partner university
• Funding for curriculum development – for designing joint curricula
• Support for international structures – building and strengthening international cooperation
• Faculty exchange – funding for teaching staff mobility

Eligible applicants for funding:

• Bachelor's and Master's students
• Scientists and researchers
• Professors

Scholarship Eligibility

Eligible applicants for funding:

• Bachelor's and Master's students
• Scientists and researchers
• Professors

Institutional eligibility:

• State and state-recognised German universities are eligible to apply for project funding.
• International partner universities must be part of the collaborative project.

Program requirements:

• Development and implementation of integrated international study programs with shared curricula
• Students study alternately at the German and international partner universities
• Students earn both national degrees (Joint Degree or Double Degree)
• Strengthening the exchange of teachers and learners
• Sustainable contribution to the development of international structures at German universities

Note: Applications for double degree projects with France must be submitted to the German-French University (DFH).

Application Procedure

1. Review program information – Visit the DAAD website to review the current funding framework for the Preparation Phase, including all annexes and requirements.
2. Attend the information event (optional but recommended) – An information event on the Double Degree Program will take place on September 1, 2026 (10:00–11:30 CET) via Microsoft Teams. Registration is required by August 31, 2026 via the LimeSurvey link. The participation link will be sent after the registration deadline.
3. Prepare application materials – Gather the following:
   • Project proposal describing the international study program
   • Joint curriculum for the double degree program
   • Letters of commitment from the German and international partner universities
   • Budget plan for the preparation and implementation phases
   • Information on student mobility, faculty exchange, and structural development
   • Any additional annexes specified in the funding framework
4. Submit the application online – Applications must be submitted through the DAAD portal by October 15, 2026.
5. Technical issues – If technical problems prevent timely submission, a deadline extension may be requested via email to the DAAD before the application deadline. The technical issue must be concretely described and documented (e.g., screenshot).

Important notes: Applications for double degree projects with France must be submitted to the German-French University (DFH). Due to the situation in Ukraine, no project funding applications with partners in the Russian Federation or Belarus are possible. For technical questions, email [email protected].

Official Website & Application Links

DAAD Double Degree Program – Official Page

Additional Information: www.daad.de/doppelabschluss

Technical Questions: [email protected]

Registration for Information Event: Available via LimeSurvey link on the DAAD program page (deadline: August 31, 2026).