Last checked: 7 October 2026. Dates and rules change, so confirm on the official pages linked below.
The biggest mistake with DAAD is treating it as one scholarship with one deadline. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) runs dozens of programmes, and the DAAD Pakistan website lists separate schemes for master’s, PhD and postdoctoral candidates. Some deadlines for the 2027 intake have already passed, and some are still ahead, so check each call.
The main programmes for Pakistani applicants
- EPOS (Development-Related Postgraduate Courses): master’s courses in development fields. You choose a course from DAAD’s list, and sources describe a minimum of about two years of relevant work experience.
- DAAD doctoral and research grants: for PhD candidates, including bi-nationally supervised doctorates. Several calls run in late summer and autumn.
- Helmut-Schmidt Programme: for public policy and good governance, aimed at professionals.
- Post-doctoral and re-invitation grants: for academics and former scholarship holders.
Funding usually includes a monthly stipend, health insurance and travel support. Amounts change by programme and year, so read the call.
How to choose and apply
- Open the DAAD Pakistan funding page and note every programme that fits your level and field.
- Check each deadline. Programmes for Pakistan can close earlier than the general international date.
- Confirm the work experience, degree and language requirements (English or German).
- Prepare a CV, transcripts, motivation letter, references and a study or research plan.
- Apply through the DAAD portal, and to the university when the programme requires it.
What makes an application strong
- A clear link between your work experience and the course content
- A realistic plan for how your studies will help Pakistan after you return
- A focused letter. See the difference between a motivation letter, SOP and personal statement
- Early contact with referees, at least two to three weeks before the deadline
How to compare DAAD programmes in 15 minutes
Open each programme page and fill in this table for every option you are considering:
| Question | Where to find the answer |
|---|---|
| What level is it for? | Master’s, PhD or postdoctoral, in the programme title |
| How much work experience is required? | “Eligibility” section of the call |
| Which language do I need? | “Language requirements”, English, German or both |
| What is the deadline for Pakistan? | The DAAD Pakistan page, not only the general DAAD site |
| Do I apply to DAAD, the university, or both? | “How to apply” section |
A realistic timeline
- Six months before the deadline: choose your programme and course.
- Four months before: request transcripts and degree copies, book any language test.
- Three months before: contact referees and, for research grants, a possible supervisor.
- Two months before: finish your motivation letter and study or research plan.
- Two weeks before: proofread, merge documents into the requested format and submit.
Common mistakes
- Applying to a course that does not appear on the programme’s course list
- Using a CV that does not show relevant work experience clearly
- Sending a motivation letter that could be written for any country
- Ignoring the document size and format rules. Compress scans with our image compressor
DAAD Scholarships: frequently asked questions
Do I need IELTS for DAAD?
It depends on the programme and course. Some accept other proof of English. Read our guide to scholarships and English tests.
Can I apply to more than one DAAD programme?
Check the rules of each call. Some limit you to one application per year.
When should I start?
At least six months before the deadline, so you can gather documents and write a strong letter.
Official source: DAAD Pakistan.
