DAAD Scholarships 2026 at Freie Universität Berlin Now Open for International Students
International students currently enrolled at Freie Universität Berlin (FU Berlin) now have access to a meaningful new funding opportunity for the 2026 academic year. Applications are officially open for the DAAD Scholarships under the STIBET I Program, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Federal Foreign Office. This scheme aims to support students who face additional personal, financial, or caregiving challenges during their studies.
With 10 scholarships available, each providing €250 per month from March to December 2026, this is a valuable support mechanism for students balancing academic commitments with complex personal circumstances.
This announcement outlines everything potential applicants need to understand before applying.
What This Scholarship Provides?
This scholarship is designed to reduce the financial barriers that may affect a student’s ability to successfully continue their studies. Benefits include:
- €250 per month for ten months
- Funding period: March 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026
- Flexible support designed around students’ personal situations
- Eligibility not based on academic grades
The program does not aim to cover full living costs but offers a stable contribution to students who need additional support.
Who Should Consider Applying?
These scholarships target international students who may be under additional pressure because of:
- A refugee background
- Having a child under 12 years of age
- Serving as a caregiver
- Living with a disability (50% or more) or a chronic illness affecting academic performance
Students who fall under any of these categories are strongly encouraged to apply.
General Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the DAAD STIBET I Scholarships at Freie Universität Berlin, applicants must hold a higher education entrance qualification obtained outside Germany and must not be German citizens. They must be regularly enrolled in a bachelor’s, master’s, or state-exam program at FU Berlin, as PhD candidates and exchange students are not eligible.
Consistent academic participation is required, meaning students should have completed at least one course per semester, or attended two courses if they are currently in their first semester. Eligible students must also remain enrolled at FU Berlin for the entire funding period. Because scholarship amounts may be adjusted based on additional income, applicants should ensure that their combined monthly earnings from scholarships and part-time work do not exceed the permitted limits.
Apply: https://www.fu-berlin.de/en/sites/mentalwellbeing/news/Scholarship-DAAD-2026.html
Why This Scholarship Matters?
The DAAD STIBET I Scholarship offers students more than financial help. It recognizes that academic success is linked to personal stability. For international students managing caregiving duties, health conditions, or family responsibilities, this scholarship can significantly ease pressure and help ensure academic continuity.
Students at FU Berlin who meet these criteria should not miss the chance to apply.