The KAAD (Katholischer Akademischer Ausländer-Dienst) Scholarship Program 2026 offers a transformative academic opportunity for highly qualified students and researchers from developing or emerging countries who are committed to making a difference in their home countries. Funded by the Catholic Church in Germany, this fully-funded scholarship focuses on empowering future leaders from Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe by supporting their postgraduate studies and research in Germany.
With the goal of promoting academic excellence, intercultural dialogue, social commitment, and long-term development impact, the KAAD Scholarship is much more than just financial assistance. It nurtures a holistic formation—supporting not only the academic advancement of its scholars but also their moral, spiritual, and professional growth through mentorship, seminars, and integration into a robust alumni network of socially engaged change-makers. KAAD provides scholarships to students who wish to pursue their Master’s or PhD programs in Germany, or in some cases, in their home countries or neighboring regions. The scholarship especially values candidates who demonstrate outstanding academic performance and a strong commitment to social or community service. It seeks individuals who are motivated by values such as justice, peace, sustainability, and inclusive development.
Program 2: For international students already studying in Germany, nominated through Catholic University Chaplaincies (KHG/KSG).
KAAD provides not only financial coverage—including tuition, accommodation, insurance, and language training—but also ongoing academic support and personal development guidance through various programs and seminars held in Germany. This scholarship is an ideal match for those who view education as a tool for transformation and wish to return to their countries equipped with new knowledge, leadership skills, and a global perspective.
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Requirements/Eligibility
Nationality: Must be a citizen of a developing or emerging country in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, or Eastern Europe.
Educational Background: Must hold a university degree with above-average academic performance. Preference is given to candidates applying for a Master’s or PhD program.
Development Commitment: Applicants should demonstrate a strong intent to return to their home countries after completing their studies in Germany and contribute to local social, academic, or economic development.
Social Engagement: Active participation in church, community, volunteer work, or similar initiatives is strongly recommended.
Language Proficiency: For most programs, applicants should have basic knowledge of the German language (minimum A2). KAAD supports German language preparation courses. Some programs may also accept applications in English, depending on the university.
Age Range: Typically, applicants for Master’s degrees should be under 30, and those applying for PhDs should be under 35. However, this may vary slightly depending on the individual case.
Faith Affiliation: While KAAD is a Catholic organization, the scholarship is open to applicants of all Christian denominations. Applicants of other religions may also apply if they can demonstrate an active commitment to interreligious dialogue and values aligned with KAAD’s mission.
Nominations and Networks: Applicants for Program 2 (students already in Germany) must be recommended by a Catholic university chaplaincy (KHG/KSG).
Motivation Letter: A well-structured letter of motivation explaining the applicant’s academic and social goals, as well as how the KAAD scholarship would support those goals, is required.
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