Germany is one of the most attractive study destinations in Europe for international students. With internationally recognised universities, strong research opportunities and a wide range of English-taught programmes, Germany continues to attract students from around the world.

If you are planning to study in Germany in 2027–2028, there are several scholarship opportunities worth exploring. Some scholarships can provide substantial financial support, and in some cases, applicants may be able to apply without IELTS if they can demonstrate their English proficiency through another accepted method.

However, there is an important point to understand: there is no single “Germany Government Scholarship” that allows everyone to study without IELTS. Language requirements depend on the scholarship, university and individual degree programme. The official DAAD guidance confirms that applicants generally need to prove proficiency in the language of instruction, while the accepted proof can vary by programme.

This guide explains some of the major scholarship routes, how “without IELTS” can work, eligibility requirements and how to find suitable opportunities for the 2027–2028 academic year.

Germany Scholarships 2027–2028 – Quick Overview

Can You Study in Germany Without IELTS?

Yes, in some cases.

But this does not mean that every German university or scholarship accepts students without an English-language test.

If your programme is taught in English, the university will normally want evidence that you have sufficient English-language skills. Depending on the institution, this may be demonstrated through IELTS, TOEFL, another recognised test, or another form of accepted evidence.

The official DAAD information lists several possible English-language certificates, including IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test and onSET English for relevant scholarship applications. However, the university may have its own rules about which tests it accepts.

In some situations, a university may accept a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate or other evidence that your previous education was conducted in English. Whether this is accepted is entirely up to the university and programme.

Therefore, students should never assume that an MOI certificate automatically replaces IELTS.

What Are the Main Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany?

There are many scholarship opportunities in Germany, but one of the most important sources for international students is the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

DAAD offers a large number of scholarships for international students, graduates, doctoral candidates and researchers. The exact funding, eligibility requirements and deadlines depend on the individual scholarship programme.

1. DAAD Scholarships

DAAD is one of the best places to begin your search for scholarships in Germany.

Its scholarship database contains opportunities for different academic levels and fields.

Depending on the programme, funding can include:

• Monthly scholarship payments
• Travel allowance
• Health, accident and personal liability insurance
• Study and research allowances
• Possible rent or family-related allowances
• Preparatory language courses in certain cases

The exact benefits are different for each programme, so applicants should read the official scholarship announcement carefully before applying.

For example, the DAAD Study Scholarship – Master Studies for All Academic Disciplines currently lists funding for the winter semester 2027/28 and provides programme-specific application deadlines.

2. DAAD STEM Scholarships

Students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics can also find DAAD opportunities specifically designed for STEM-related fields.

Some current DAAD scholarship calls have deadlines during 2026 for funding beginning in 2027. For example, one current STEM scholarship listing shows a September 2026 application deadline and funding beginning in the winter semester of 2027.

Because deadlines differ between programmes, students should search the official DAAD database rather than relying on a single general deadline.

3. Hilde Domin Programme

The Hilde Domin Programme is another DAAD-administered opportunity, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office.

It supports students and doctoral candidates who are at risk of being denied educational or other rights in their country of origin and provides an opportunity to study or conduct research at a German higher education institution.

For the 2027/28 winter semester, the current information lists nominations until September 15, 2026, followed by an application period from September 17 to October 15, 2026. The programme can provide substantial financial support, including monthly scholarship payments, insurance and travel support.

This is a specialised programme and is not open to everyone, so applicants must carefully check the specific eligibility criteria.

What Does “Without IELTS” Really Mean?

This is one of the most searched questions by international students.

In simple terms, “without IELTS” usually means that IELTS is not the only possible way to demonstrate English proficiency.

Depending on the university or scholarship, alternatives may include:

Medium of Instruction Certificate

If your previous degree was taught entirely in English, some universities may accept an official certificate from your institution confirming the language of instruction.

However, this is not a universal rule.

Other English Tests

Some universities may accept alternatives such as:

• TOEFL
• PTE Academic
• Cambridge English
• Duolingo English Test
• Other recognised tests

DAAD itself lists several English-language certificates that may be accepted for particular scholarship applications.

University Language Assessment

In some cases, a university may have its own language assessment or may accept another form of proof.

Students should always check the official programme page before assuming an exemption applies.

What If the Programme Is Taught in German?

If your degree programme is taught in German, IELTS is generally not the relevant language test.

Instead, you may need to demonstrate German-language proficiency.

The DAAD explains that most programmes in Germany are taught in German and that many institutions require German language skills, often around B2 level, although the exact requirement depends on the programme.

Common German-language certificates include:

• TestDaF
• DSH
• Goethe-Zertifikat
• telc German
• DSD
• ÖSD
• onSET German

The university decides which certificates it accepts.

Who Can Apply for Germany Scholarships?

Eligibility depends on the individual scholarship, but international applicants may need to meet requirements such as:

• Having the required academic qualification
• Meeting the admission requirements of the selected university
• Having strong academic results
• Demonstrating relevant academic or professional experience where required
• Meeting the language requirements
• Applying from an eligible country, where applicable
• Meeting the scholarship’s specific conditions
• Submitting the application before the deadline

Some scholarships are intended specifically for master’s students, while others are available to doctoral candidates, researchers or other groups.

Can Bachelor’s Students Get Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany?

Scholarship availability for bachelor’s students is generally more limited than for master’s and doctoral students.

Germany is particularly well known for scholarship opportunities for master’s students, doctoral candidates and researchers.

That does not mean bachelor’s students have no options. Universities, foundations and other organisations may offer scholarships, but applicants need to search specifically for undergraduate opportunities.

What Documents Are Usually Required?

The documents depend on the scholarship and university, but international students should generally be prepared for documents such as:

• Passport
• Academic certificates
• Academic transcripts
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Recommendation letters
• Proof of language proficiency
• Research proposal, if applicable
• Admission letter, where required
• Proof of professional experience, if required
• Other programme-specific documents

DAAD scholarship applications can have detailed documentation requirements, so applicants should always read the individual scholarship announcement before preparing their final application.

How to Find Germany Scholarships for 2027–2028

The easiest way to avoid unreliable scholarship information is to use official sources.

Step 1: Search the DAAD Scholarship Database

Start by searching for scholarships that match your nationality, degree level and academic field.

Step 2: Find an Eligible Study Programme

Once you identify a scholarship, check the eligible programmes and universities.

Step 3: Check the Language Requirements

Do not assume that every English-taught programme accepts students without IELTS.

Check whether the university accepts an MOI certificate or another English-language test.

Step 4: Prepare Your Documents

Prepare your CV, motivation letter, academic documents and language evidence well before the deadline.

Step 5: Check the Application Method

Some scholarships use the DAAD portal, while others may require applications through a university or another organisation.

Step 6: Apply Before the Deadline

Scholarship deadlines can be very different. Some 2027 opportunities already have deadlines in 2026.

Official DAAD Scholarship Search

The DAAD Scholarship Database is one of the most useful places to search for current scholarship opportunities in Germany.

👉 Official DAAD Scholarship Database:
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/scholarships/

You should also use the official DAAD information on studying in Germany to check admission and language requirements.

👉 Official DAAD Requirements Guide:
https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/requirements/overview/

Important Tips for Students Applying Without IELTS

If you want to apply without IELTS, do not simply remove the IELTS certificate from your application and hope for the best.

Instead:

Check the University Requirements

The university decides whether IELTS is required for your particular programme.

Ask About an MOI Certificate

If your previous degree was taught in English, contact the admissions office and ask whether a Medium of Instruction certificate is accepted.

Get Written Confirmation

If possible, obtain confirmation from the university before relying on an IELTS exemption.

Check the Scholarship Separately

Even if a university accepts your language proof, a scholarship programme may have additional language requirements.

Do Not Trust Every “No IELTS” Advertisement

Many websites use “without IELTS” as a headline even when the university still requires proof of English proficiency.

Always verify the information on the official university or scholarship website.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I study in Germany without IELTS in 2027?

Yes, it may be possible for some programmes, but it depends on the university, degree programme and accepted language evidence. IELTS is not universally required, but English proficiency usually still needs to be demonstrated in some form.

2. Is there a fully funded Germany Government Scholarship without IELTS?

There is no single scholarship that guarantees fully funded study in Germany for everyone without IELTS. DAAD offers many scholarships, but the requirements and funding differ by programme.

3. Can I use an MOI certificate instead of IELTS?

Some universities may accept a Medium of Instruction certificate if your previous education was taught in English. However, acceptance is not automatic. Always check with your chosen university.

4. Does DAAD require IELTS?

Not every DAAD scholarship requires IELTS specifically. DAAD states that applicants need to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction, and the accepted proof depends on the programme. Other English-language certificates may be accepted.

5. Which English tests can be accepted?

Depending on the scholarship or university, accepted evidence may include IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test or onSET English. The exact list varies by programme.

6. Are Germany scholarships available for master’s students?

Yes. There are numerous scholarship opportunities for international master’s students, including DAAD programmes.

7. Are Germany scholarships available for PhD students?

Yes. Germany has numerous opportunities for doctoral candidates and researchers. Eligibility and funding depend on the specific programme.

8. Can bachelor’s students apply for scholarships in Germany?

Yes, although fully funded opportunities for bachelor’s students can be more limited. Students should search specifically for undergraduate scholarships and university funding.

9. Do I need to know German to study in Germany?

Not necessarily. Many international and postgraduate programmes are taught in English. However, German is the main teaching language for many programmes, so German-language proof may be required for those courses.

10. When should I apply for Germany scholarships for 2027–2028?

You should start preparing well before 2027. Some scholarship deadlines for programmes beginning in 2027 occur during 2026. For example, current DAAD listings include deadlines in September, October and November 2026 for certain 2027/28 opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Germany with a scholarship can be an excellent opportunity for international students, but it is important to separate genuine opportunities from misleading “no IELTS” claims.

The good news is that IELTS is not necessarily the only way to prove English proficiency. Depending on your chosen programme, another recognised English test or an accepted alternative may be possible.

For the 2027–2028 academic year, start your search early, check the official DAAD scholarship database, compare university requirements and contact the university if you want to request an IELTS exemption.

Most importantly, never assume that “without IELTS” means “without any language requirement.” Your university and scholarship provider will determine exactly what evidence you need.

Good luck with your Germany scholarship search!

Disclaimer

Scholarship availability, deadlines, eligibility requirements, funding amounts and language requirements can change. This article is intended as an informational guide. Always verify the latest requirements directly with DAAD, the relevant university and the official scholarship provider before applying.