DAAD Summer Courses 2026 in Germany

DAAD funds fully‑funded DAAD Summer Courses (HSK) in Germany for undergrad and master’s students from abroad. You’ll enhance your German language skills and explore regional culture over at least 18 teaching days. A one‑time scholarship (€1,192 or €1,367 for Least Developed Countries), travel allowance, and insurance are included.

The DAAD Summer Courses programme aims to deepen knowledge of the German language (general language, technical language) and regional studies. Application Deadline: 30 October 2025

Universities / Institutions

These courses are offered by state or state‑recognized German universities and affiliated language schools

Institution	Place	Ranking	Program Type	Duration
Various German universities	Multiple cities (e.g., Heidelberg, Freiburg, Tübingen…)	Among Germany’s top institutions	Intensive German language & regional studies	Minimum 18 teaching days, typically 3–4 weeks (June–September)

Course Duration:

• Minimum 18 teaching days (max. 5 days/week)
• At least 25 teaching hours per week
• Courses usually run between June and September
• Grants are not extendable

Study Areas

• General German
• Technical language
• Regional Studies
  Courses are taught exclusively in German

DAAD Summer Courses Benefits

• One-time payment of €1,192
• €1,367 for students from Least Developed Countries
• Country-specific travel allowance (see DAAD site)
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance included

Benefits Not Included

• Costs like accommodation and course fees are typically deducted directly by course providers from the scholarship
• No daily living stipend beyond the lump sum—you must cover any shortfall yourself.

Eligibilities for DAAD Summer Courses

• Open to undergraduate and master’s students from all disciplines
• Undergraduate students must have completed at least two academic years by the course start
• Must be non‑German citizens, enrolled in an undergraduate or master’s program outside Germany
• Minimum age: 18 years at start of course
• Minimum German proficiency: at least A2/B1 level, certificate no older than one year (TestDaF, Goethe, DSH, telc, etc.)
• At least two full years must have passed since last DAAD summer or winter grant

What Can Be Funded:

• German language, regional studies, and technical language courses
• Offered by state or state-recognized German universities and affiliated language schools
• Courses taught fully in German and conducted in person

Payment Note:

• Scholarship funds are not transferred abroad
• Course providers usually deduct course fees and accommodation directly from the scholarship amount

Selection Criteria:

• Based on academic achievements
• Strong, relevant letter of motivation

DAAD Re-Invitation Program 2026 in Germany

Required Documents

• Online application form (choosing up to 3 preferred courses)
• CV (in German)
• Letter of Motivation (in German)
• Degree certificates/transcripts (last 2 years; German or English translations)
• German language certificate (A2/B1 required)
• Passport copy & any additional supporting documents if relevant

DAAD Summer Courses Application Process

1. Open applications mid‑September 2025 on the DAAD portal
2. Submit all documents online and select up to three course preferences by 1 December 2025
3. Selection decisions are usually made between late Feb and March 2026
4. Results notification arrives via DAAD portal/email by March/April

Tips for a Successful Application

• Submit a clear, compelling motivation letter linking the course to your academic goals
• Maintain strong academic performance—selection looks for “previous academic achievements”
• Include a solid German proficiency certificate (at least A2/B1)
• Choose courses wisely—prioritize 3 preferences in the application
• Apply early and monitor portal status—applications submitted by deadline get priority

Monthly Living Expenses in Germany

International students typically need around:

• €800–1,000 per month, covering:
  • Accommodation: €300–600
  • Food & transport: €200–300
  • Miscellaneous: €100–200

Why Choose This Opportunity?

• It offers deep language immersion, combining courses with cultural insights.
• You get DAAD’s prestigious scholarship—adds strong value to your CV.
• It’s a gateway to future study or research in Germany, with excellent networking opportunities.
• You experience Germany’s vibrant academic and social life firsthand.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I apply with only A2 German?
   Yes, most courses require A2/B1; certificate must be no older than a year
2. If I apply in 2025, can I start in summer 2026?
   Absolutely—submit by Dec 1, 2025; courses run between June–September 2026
3. Will DAAD refund my flight ticket?
   DAAD provides a fixed country‑specific travel allowance—ticket receipts aren’t required
4. When will I hear back?
   Decision notifications usually arrive around March–April
5. Can I get another DAAD grant soon after?
   No—there must be at least two full years between summer or winter course grants

Official Link

Find full details and apply on the DAAD portal: DAAD – University Summer Courses (HSK)