DAAD-Hilde Domin Fully Funded Scholarship 2026 for At-Risk Undergraduate, Graduate, and Doctoral Students in Germany German Academic Exchange Service in Germany

The DAAD-Hilde Domin Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, offering a fully funded opportunity for at-risk students and doctoral candidates to pursue undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral studies in Germany. Administered by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and funded by the Federal Foreign Office of Germany, this prestigious scholarship is designed for individuals whose education, academic freedom, or fundamental rights are threatened in their home countries.

The programme provides comprehensive financial support, including living expenses and all study- or research-related costs at recognized German higher education institutions. Recipients also gain access to interdisciplinary training and academic enrichment activities, all within a protected academic environment that fosters long-term personal, professional, and societal impact. The scholarship is inspired by the legacy of Hilde Domin, reflecting values of resilience, intellectual courage, and the right to learn without fear.

Eligible applicants are international students or doctoral candidates who are at risk of being formally or de facto denied education or academic rights. Candidates must have strong academic records, clear prospects for successful study or research in Germany, and sufficient proficiency in German or English (B2 level). Importantly, applicants must be nominated by eligible German institutions or organizations active in academia, human rights, peace, democracy, or rule of law. Direct applications are not accepted; all candidates must go through the official nomination process and credibly document their personal risk situation.

The application process follows a two-stage timeline: eligible institutions and organizations must submit nominations by 15 March 2026. After review, shortlisted candidates will be invited by DAAD to submit their full applications between 17 March and 15 April 2026. The scholarship aims to empower scholars to contribute meaningfully to political, economic, and social development in their home countries, Germany, or elsewhere.

For more information and to begin the nomination process, visit the official DAAD Hilde Domin Programme page. This is a unique opportunity for at-risk scholars to continue their academic journeys in a safe and supportive environment in Germany.