The Katholischer Akademischer Ausländer-Dienst (KAAD)—Germany’s Catholic Academic Exchange Service—is now inviting international students to apply for its prestigious scholarships for the 2025 intake. These scholarships are designed for exceptional individuals from developing regions who are committed to returning and contributing to their home countries after study or research in Germany.
What Is the KAAD Scholarship?
KAAD offers fully funded postgraduate scholarships for students from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. These scholarships support Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral programs at German universities or selected in-country/third-country options.
Funding of KAAD Scholarships
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel and research grants
- Health insurance
- German language training (optional/preparatory)
- Access to elite academic and faith-based networks.
Types of KAAD Scholarships for 2025
Following are the all KAAD scholarship categories available for 2025 intake:
| Scholarship Type | Target Applicants | Program Coverage | Location / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| KAAD Scholarship Programme 1 | Students applying from their home country | Master’s, PhD, or postdoctoral studies; also in-country/third-country study | Includes regional hubs like Bangkok, Nairobi, Amman; special support for refugees and displaced persons |
| KAAD Scholarship Programme 2 | Students already enrolled in a postgraduate program in Germany | Ongoing Master’s or PhD support | Application is made through Catholic chaplaincies (KHG/KSG) in German universities |
| Eastern Europe Programme | Students/researchers from Eastern/Southeastern Europe, Central Asia, Caucasus | Full postgraduate study (up to 3 years) or short research stays (6–12 months) | Aimed at capacity building in post-Soviet and Balkan regions |
| Adveniat‑KAAD Scholarships | Students from Latin America and the Caribbean, especially Catholic social leaders | Master’s or PhD programs | Study possible in Germany, Latin America, or via online/hybrid formats |
| Ukraine Support Programme | Ukrainian scholars impacted by the war | Emergency support, study, or research stays | Contact local KAAD office for up-to-date information on special calls |
Who Can Apply?
- Students from developing countries (Africa, Asia, MENA, Latin America, Eastern Europe)
- Must have completed a university degree (minimum: Bachelor’s)
- Demonstrated leadership, developmental commitment, and a faith-based motivation (Catholic or open to interreligious dialogue)
- German language proficiency is a plus, but not required at the start
- Clear plan to return and work in home country.
Apply: https://www.kaad.de/en/stipendien/
The last date to apply for KAAD Scholarships 2025 (Programme 1) is June 30, 2025.
Applications for other programs (e.g., Programme 2 or regional offers) may have different deadlines—check with your local partner committee or chaplaincy for exact dates.
