Kenyan graduates seeking advanced education opportunities abroad can now apply for a new scholarship programme offered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for Master’s studies in Germany.
The programme targets outstanding students from developing and emerging economies who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines at German universities.
In an announcement issued by the German Embassy in Kenya, the scholarship aims to support highly qualified graduates interested in building careers in innovation-driven sectors.
“The scholarship programme is aimed at high-achieving students from developing and emerging countries who would like to complete a Master’s degree in STEM subjects at a German university,” the statement said.
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship is open to students intending to pursue Master’s programmes in:
- Mathematics
- Computer Science
- Natural Sciences
- Engineering
According to DAAD, interdisciplinary programmes may also qualify provided they have a strong STEM focus.
Applicants must have completed a Bachelor’s degree or an equivalent university qualification recognised in Germany before the application deadline. However, candidates who already hold a Master’s degree are not eligible for the programme.
The scholarship only supports full-time, on-campus study programmes offered by state or state-recognised universities in Germany.
Comprehensive Financial Support
Successful applicants will receive extensive financial assistance throughout their studies.
The scholarship package includes:
- Monthly stipend of €992
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance where applicable
- Annual study allowance of €460
- Possible rent subsidy
- Additional support for accompanying family members
Students living with disabilities or chronic illnesses may also qualify for extra funding to cover costs associated with their studies and stay in Germany.
Funding Period and Academic Requirements
The scholarship will support students for between 10 and 24 months, depending on the duration of their chosen Master’s programme.
Applicants must indicate the full period of study when submitting their applications. Those enrolling in two-year programmes, for example, must apply for funding covering the entire duration from the outset.
DAAD noted that continuation of funding beyond the first year will depend on satisfactory academic performance.
“After the first year of study, your academic achievements will be assessed. If this shows that you will successfully complete your programme within a reasonable period of time, the scholarship will continue as planned,” the organisation stated.
Funding is expected to begin in October 2027, although recipients who undertake preparatory German language courses may start earlier.
Language Support Included
The programme also provides language-learning opportunities to help students prepare for academic life in Germany.
Available support includes:
- Access to online language courses
- Funding for German language courses before studies begin
- Allowances for additional language training during studies
- Reimbursement of fees for recognised German language examinations such as TestDaF and DSH
Application Deadline
Applications for the scholarship programme will remain open until September 30, 2026.
Interested candidates are encouraged to review eligibility requirements and submit their applications before the deadline.
Additional Opportunity for Kenyan Teachers
The scholarship announcement comes shortly after the German Embassy unveiled a separate professional development programme for Kenyan teachers.
Under the PAD Professional Development Programme 2027, qualified German-language teachers will have an opportunity to teach in Germany for nearly one year as part of a cultural and professional exchange initiative.
Successful applicants will receive either a monthly stipend exceeding €1,500 or an employment contract worth approximately €2,500 per month.
Applicants for the teaching programme must demonstrate German language proficiency at C1 level and possess at least three years of teaching experience. Applications for that programme close on July 22, 2026.
