The DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 in Germany is a fully funded opportunity for international students from developing countries to study a Master’s in International and Development Economics at HTW Berlin, one of Germany’s leading universities of applied sciences. This program is part of the prestigious DAAD EPOS scholarships and is designed for young professionals who want to build a high-impact career in development economics, policy, and international organizations.
Basic information about the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026
The DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 supports a Master’s degree in International and Development Economics (MIDE) at HTW Berlin, with the intake starting in April 2026. The program runs for about 17–18 months and is taught entirely in English, making it ideal for international students.
Key details for 2026 intake:
- University: HTW Berlin – University of Applied Sciences (Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft Berlin).
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Programme Name: International and Development Economics (MIDE)
- University: HTW Berlin (University of Applied Sciences)
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 3 semesters (18 months)
- Study Mode: Full-time
- Language of Instruction: English (100%)
- Program start: April 2026.
University and program details
HTW Berlin is a large public university of applied sciences located in Berlin, known for its strong focus on practice-oriented teaching, research, and international programs. The MIDE program is offered by the Faculty of Economics and Law at the Treskowallee campus in Berlin.
Key features of HTW Berlin and MIDE:
- Practice-oriented teaching with a strong link between economic theory and real-world development issues.
- International classroom with students from many developing and emerging countries.
- Focus on applied development economics, policy analysis, and project evaluation.
- Strong ties to development agencies, NGOs, and international organizations recruiting MIDE graduates.
The MIDE program prepares students for demanding positions in ministries, central banks, development banks, UN agencies, NGOs, and consulting firms working on development projects.
Study areas and program structure
The DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 specifically funds the Master’s in International and Development Economics (MIDE). It is a specialized program within economic sciences and development studies.
Typical study areas and module themes include:
- International Economics
- Development Economics
- Global Economic Affairs
- Financial Institutions
- Environmental Economics
- Public Enterprises
- Development Policies & Strategies
- Economic challenges in developing and transition countries
- Theoretical debates and real-world case studies
DAAD MIDE Scholarship benefits
The DAAD EPOS MIDE Scholarship is fully funded and designed to cover almost all essential costs for international students. Typical benefits include:
- Tuition fee coverage: Full coverage of tuition and related academic fees.
- One-time service fee: 2,500 EUR (no regular high tuition fees)
- Affordable semester contribution: approx. 320 EUR
- Student residence halls near campus (3-minute walk)
- Opportunity to work part-time (140 full days / 280 half days per year)
- Strong academic and career support services
- Welcome programme & buddy system
- Language courses and academic writing support
- Networking opportunities for professional development
- Study in Berlin (major European capital city)
- Fully taught in English
These benefits make the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 one of the most attractive fully funded master’s opportunities in Germany for students from developing countries.
Benefits not included
Despite being fully funded, some costs may not be fully covered by the DAAD MIDE Scholarship:
- Visa fees and some administrative charges in your home country may not be reimbursed.
- Initial settlement costs (such as deposits for accommodation, furniture, or household items) may exceed the first monthly stipend.
- Extra travel within Europe, personal leisure activities, or luxury expenses are not covered.
- Costs after the funding period ends (for thesis extensions or prolonged stay) are usually the student’s responsibility.
Applicants should still plan basic savings for emergencies or additional personal costs while studying in Germany.
Eligibility criteria for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship
Eligibility criteria combine both MIDE admission requirements and DAAD EPOS scholarship conditions.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree equivalent to 180 ECTS (3-year German degree)
- If 180 ECTS:
- Additional 30 ECTS required OR
- Minimum 6 months professional experience
- If 210 ECTS or more:
- No additional study or experience required
DAAD Scholarship Applicants
- Must be from a developing country
- Minimum 2 years professional experience
- Must have graduated within the last 6 years
- Financial Requirement (Visa)
- Blocked account: 11,208 EUR (as of April 2025)
Language Requirements (One Required)
- TOEFL iBT: 96+
- IELTS Academic: 7.0
- TOEIC: 800+
- CPE / CAE / BEC Higher
- If previous degree was fully in English → official proof required (no test needed)
Required documents for the application
To apply for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026, you normally need two sets of documents: for MIDE admission and for the DAAD EPOS scholarship.
Typical required documents include:
- Completed MIDE online application form (available on the MIDE website during the application period).
- DAAD application form for development-related postgraduate courses (EPOS form).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) in reverse chronological order, preferably in the Europass format.
- Motivation letter explaining your academic background, work experience, and development-related goals.
- Official academic transcripts and degree certificates for all university studies.
- Proof of at least two years of relevant professional experience after graduation (employment certificates, contracts, or official letters).
- Letters of recommendation (often two), usually from employers and/or university professors.
- Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent).
- Copy of passport or national ID and any other documents requested by HTW Berlin.
Always follow the document order and formatting indicated by DAAD EPOS and the MIDE website.
DAAD MIDE Scholarship Step-by-step application process
Use this step-by-step guide to apply for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 effectively.
- Check eligibility
- Confirm that your degree, grades, and field of study meet the MIDE admission criteria.
- Make sure you meet DAAD EPOS conditions: developing-country citizenship, at least two years of post-graduation work experience, and recent graduation.
- Prepare English test and documents early
- Take IELTS/TOEFL or equivalent well before the deadline and secure official test results.
- Collect transcripts, degree certificates, and employment certificates and arrange for certified translations if needed.
- Fill the DAAD EPOS application form
- Download and complete the DAAD scholarship form for development-related postgraduate courses.
- Clearly state MIDE at HTW Berlin as your chosen program and explain how it supports your development-related career.
- Prepare your motivation letter and CV
- Write a focused motivation letter that links your background, work experience, and plans to international and development economics.
- Use a clear and professional CV format with emphasis on relevant experience and responsibilities.
- Request recommendation letters
- Ask employers and/or professors for recommendation letters well in advance.
- Ensure they highlight your analytical skills, leadership, and commitment to development work.
- Complete the MIDE online application
- During the application window (often July–September), submit the online application via the MIDE/HTW Berlin portal; Uni-Assist is not required.
- Upload all required documents according to the instructions.
- Respect the DAAD scholarship deadline
- Submit your complete application package by the DAAD MIDE deadline, which is typically 31 August 2025 for the 2026/27 intake.
- Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
- Wait for selection and follow-up
- Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for clarification or additional documents.
- If awarded, you will receive an official DAAD scholarship letter and further instructions on enrollment and visa processes.
Tips for a successful application
A strong DAAD MIDE Scholarship application is competitive and strategic.
- Focus your motivation letter on development impact: Show how MIDE will help you solve real economic problems in your country or region.
- Highlight relevant professional experience: Emphasize roles where you worked on economic policy, development projects, financial inclusion, poverty reduction, or related areas.
- Demonstrate quantitative and analytical skills: Mention research, data analysis, monitoring and evaluation, or policy studies you have done.
- Keep your documents consistent: Your CV, motivation letter, and recommendation letters should tell a coherent story about your development-focused career path.
- Apply early and proofread everything: Submitting well before 31 August and checking for errors shows professionalism and reduces technical risks.
Monthly living expenses for international students in Germany (USD)
Even with a fully funded scholarship, understanding the cost of living in Germany is essential.
Recent guides show that international students in Germany typically need the equivalent of about 900–1,200 EUR per month, which is approximately 980–1,310 USD depending on exchange rates. Typical monthly expense ranges are:
- Accommodation (rent, utilities): about 380–770 USD per month, depending on city and housing type.
- Food and groceries: around 220–330 USD per month for a student budget.
- Transport and local public transportation: approximately 110–220 USD per month, sometimes less with student discounts.
- Health insurance, phone, internet, and other bills: roughly 110–200 USD monthly.
- Miscellaneous (books, leisure, clothing): about 110–160 USD per month.
In total, most international students in Germany spend between about 980 and 1,310 USD monthly for basic living costs. The DAAD MIDE stipend is designed to cover these typical student expenses when budgeted carefully.
Why choose the DAAD MIDE Scholarship? (at least 5 reasons)
There are many reasons why the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026 is a highly attractive, SEO-friendly choice for international students in development economics.
- Fully funded and financially secure
- The scholarship covers tuition, monthly living stipend, travel costs, and health insurance, reducing financial stress and allowing you to focus on your studies.
- Strong development focus and career impact
- MIDE offers a specialized curriculum in international and development economics, directly aligned with careers in development agencies, NGOs, governments, and international organizations.
- Study in Berlin, a global hub
- HTW Berlin is located in Germany’s capital, offering rich networking opportunities, diverse communities, and exposure to international policy and economic institutions.
- High-quality, practice-oriented teaching
- As a university of applied sciences, HTW Berlin combines theoretical foundations with practical case studies, projects, and application-focused training.
- International network and alumni community
- DAAD EPOS and MIDE form an international network of scholars and alumni working across the development sector, which can significantly boost your global career prospects.
- English-taught master’s with global recognition
- The MIDE program is fully taught in English and leads to a recognized Master of Arts degree from a German public institution, adding strong value to your CV.
- Clear pathway to development jobs
- The combination of economic analysis, practical tools, and policy focus positions graduates well for roles in organizations like GIZ, UNDP, World Bank, and central banks.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about the DAAD MIDE Scholarship 2026
1. Do I need German language skills to apply?
No, German is not required for admission to MIDE because the entire master’s program is taught in English. However, learning basic German is highly recommended to make daily life in Germany easier.
2. How long does the MIDE program last?
The International and Development Economics master’s program at HTW Berlin typically lasts about 17–18 months, or 3 full-time semesters.
3. Can I apply if my bachelor’s degree is not in economics?
Yes, applicants with degrees in social sciences or related fields may be considered if their studies included a sufficient number of economics and business administration courses. You must still meet the MIDE academic requirements and show a strong economics focus.
4. Is work experience mandatory for the DAAD MIDE Scholarship?
Yes, for the DAAD EPOS scholarship, you must have at least two years of relevant professional experience after completing your bachelor’s degree. This condition does not always apply to self-funded MIDE applicants, but it is essential for DAAD funding.
5. How much money do I need per month in Germany as a student?
International students in Germany usually need between about 980 and 1,310 USD per month to cover rent, food, transport, health insurance, and personal expenses, depending on the city and lifestyle.
6. Can I work part-time while studying?
Many international students in Germany work part-time within legal limits to gain experience and earn extra money, but DAAD scholars must comply with DAAD rules and prioritize their studies. Specific work regulations depend on your residence permit and should be checked once you arrive.
Application Deadline
- 30 September (for April intake)
- 31 August (for DAAD applicants)
- Apply online via: https://mide.htw-berlin.de/
- Application portal open: 1 July – 30 September
Official Link:
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