Let me explain what actually matters.
What Is the DAAD Scholarship Germany and What Does It Cover?
DAAD stands for the German Academic Exchange Service. It funds international students to study, research, or complete higher education in Germany, especially at the master’s and PhD level.
For Pakistani students, DAAD usually covers:
- Monthly living allowance
- Full or partial tuition (most public universities already have no tuition)
- Health insurance
- Travel allowance
- Sometimes family support and research grants
This means you are not expected to show blocked account funds when you are on a DAAD award. That alone makes it different from self-funded study.
Who Is Eligible for the DAAD Scholarship from Pakistan?
Pakistani applicants are fully eligible, and Pakistan is one of the priority countries for DAAD in many subject areas.
Eligibility usually depends on:
- Pakistani nationality and residence
- A completed bachelor’s degree for master’s programs
- A completed master’s degree for PhD programs
- Academic background relevant to the chosen field
- Some professional or research experience for certain programs
Age limits are program-specific, not general. Some DAAD programs care about how recently you completed your last degree rather than your age.
What CGPA Is Required for DAAD and Is 1.7 GPA Good in Germany?
This is where many students get confused.
Germany uses a 1.0 to 4.0 grading scale, where 1.0 is the best. So yes, 1.7 is considered very strong in the German system.
For DAAD:
- There is no single fixed CGPA for all programs
- Most successful Pakistani applicants fall around 2.5 or better (German scale)
- Your university grading system is converted during evaluation
DAAD looks beyond numbers. They assess:
- Academic consistency
- Relevance of degree
- Research clarity
- Motivation and career alignment
A slightly lower CGPA can still succeed if the profile is strong.
Is IELTS Necessary for the DAAD Scholarship in Germany?
Sometimes yes, sometimes no. It depends on the program language.
If the program is taught in English, then IELTS or another English test is usually required.
If the program is taught in German, then German language proof is required instead.
Important clarity for Pakistani students:
- DAAD does not always demand IELTS itself
- Universities set language requirements
- Some universities accept a medium of instruction certificate
Never assume. Always check the specific DAAD program description.
How Can Pakistani Students Apply for the DAAD Scholarship Step by Step?
The process is structured, not complicated.
First, you choose the DAAD program that fits your degree and future goals.
Then you apply directly through the DAAD portal or through the university, depending on the program.
Along the way, you prepare your documents, submit before deadline, and wait for evaluation. Shortlisting is merit-based and interview-based where required.
No agent is officially required. Self-application is common and encouraged.
What Documents Are Needed for the DAAD Scholarship Application?
DAAD documentation is strict but predictable.
You normally need:
- Academic transcripts and degrees
- CV in Europass format
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- Study or research plan
- Language certificates (if required)
- Letters of recommendation
Everything must be clear, honest, and relevant. Extra documents do not increase chances. Correct documents do.
Is the DAAD Scholarship Easy to Get Compared to Other Countries?
It is competitive, but not impossible.
DAAD is easier than some fully funded US programs because:
- Germany has no tuition pressure
- Programs are academically focused, not personality-driven
- There is no interview hype culture
Still, selection is serious. Weak planning gets rejected quickly.
As one DAAD guideline often emphasizes:
Clear academic direction matters more than perfect grades.
Can Pakistani Students Study in Germany for Free Without DAAD?
Yes, Germany allows tuition-free education at most public universities, even without DAAD.
But here’s the difference:
Without DAAD, you must show blocked account funds for living costs.
With DAAD, your living costs are covered monthly.
DAAD removes financial stress. That’s the real advantage.
Can You Stay in Germany After Completing a DAAD Scholarship?
Yes. Germany allows graduates to stay after studies.
After completing your degree, you can:
- Apply for a post-study job-seeking residence permit
- Convert to a work residence once employed
- Later apply for permanent residence if conditions are met
DAAD does not force you to leave immediately, but it expects you to use your skills responsibly.
What Should Pakistani Students Focus On to Improve DAAD Selection Chances?
Here’s what actually moves the needle:
- Choose the right program, not just any funded one
- Write a focused, realistic motivation letter
- Show how Germany fits your academic and career path
- Keep documents clean, honest, and well-organized
DAAD rewards clarity. Confusion is the biggest rejection reason.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the DAAD Scholarship Germany fully funded for Pakistani students?
Yes. Most DAAD programs are fully funded. They cover monthly living costs, health insurance, travel allowance, and in many cases tuition-related expenses.
Are Pakistani students eligible for the DAAD Scholarship?
Yes. Pakistan is an eligible and priority country for many DAAD programs. Pakistani students regularly receive DAAD scholarships at master’s and PhD levels.
What CGPA is required for the DAAD Scholarship in Germany?
There is no fixed CGPA. Generally, a good academic record is required. A German-equivalent GPA of around 2.5 or better is competitive, but profile strength matters more than numbers alone.
Is IELTS required for the DAAD Scholarship Germany?
Not always. IELTS is required only if the degree program is taught in English and the university asks for it. Some universities accept alternative proof of English.
Is a 1.7 GPA good in Germany for DAAD?
Yes. A 1.7 GPA is considered strong in the German grading system and is viewed positively in DAAD evaluations.
What documents are needed for the DAAD Scholarship application?
Common documents include academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV (Europass format), motivation letter, study or research plan, language certificates, and recommendation letters.
Can I study in Germany for free without DAAD?
Yes. Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees. However, without DAAD, you must show your own living funds through a blocked account.
Can I stay in Germany after completing a DAAD Scholarship?
Yes. After graduation, you can apply for a post-study residence permit to look for a job and later switch to a work residence permit if employed.
Muhammad Yasin writes about jobs, education notices, books, and general Pakistani guides. He turns updates into practical advice, clearly explaining eligibility, requirements, and what readers should do next.