Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
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We do not process applications, and we charge no fee for this information.
Deadlines, eligibility criteria and submission rules change without notice, so verify every detail on the official Heidelberg University MScIH scholarships page (klinikum.uni-heidelberg.de) and the DAAD scholarship database before applying.
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Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2027
Last updated: November 2026. Official source: Heidelberg University MScIH Scholarships and the DAAD Scholarship Database.
The Heidelberg Institute of Global Health (HIGH) at Heidelberg University offers the Master of Science in International Health (MScIH) with a dedicated DAAD EPOS scholarship pathway.
Specifically, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) funds a limited number of candidates through its Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) programme.
This fully funded opportunity targets professionals from developing and newly industrialised countries who want to tackle public health challenges in low- and middle-income settings.
Consequently, successful applicants receive comprehensive financial support, academic training, and a globally recognised degree from one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious universities.
Below, this guide explains the scholarship benefits, strict eligibility rules, the mandatory two-step application process, and practical notes for Indian applicants.
Table of Contents
- Programme at a Glance
- What is the DAAD EPOS Scholarship at Heidelberg?
- Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?
- Eligibility Criteria
- Required Documents
- How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Deadlines and Selection Timeline
- Special Notes for Indian Applicants
- FAQs for Indian Applicants
Programme at a Glance
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
First, let us examine the core facts of this scholarship pathway.
This summary table highlights the key details, funding structure, and critical deadlines for the 2027 intake.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Master of Science in International Health (MScIH) |
| Host Institution | Heidelberg University (Heidelberg Institute of Global Health) |
| Funding Body | German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) – EPOS Programme |
| Degree Level | Master’s (MSc) |
| Duration | 1 year full-time (or up to 5 years part-time) |
| Monthly Stipend | €992 (for master’s students) |
| Additional Benefits | Health insurance, travel allowance, tuition waiver (typically) |
| DAAD EPOS Application Period | 15 August 2026 – 15 October 2026 |
| MScIH Self-Funded Application Period | 16 October 2026 – 31 March 2027 |
| Programme Start | September 2027 (Winter Semester 2027/28) |
| Official Application Portal | Heidelberg MScIH Application Page |
What is the DAAD EPOS Scholarship at Heidelberg?
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
The DAAD EPOS programme supports development-related postgraduate courses at German universities.
Heidelberg University participates in this initiative through its MSc in International Health, administered by the Institute of Global Health.
Unlike a general university scholarship, DAAD EPOS targets professionals who already possess practical experience in public health or social sciences.
Specifically, the programme aims to train experts who will return to their home countries and contribute to sustainable development.
Moreover, the selection process is highly competitive, with the Institute of Global Health nominating candidates and DAAD making the final funding decision.
Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?
DAAD EPOS offers a comprehensive funding package for master’s students.
Monthly Stipend and Insurance
Selected candidates receive a monthly stipend of €992.
Additionally, DAAD covers health, accident, and personal liability insurance for the duration of the programme.
Travel and Tuition
The scholarship typically includes a travel allowance to cover international airfare.
Furthermore, DAAD EPOS scholars are generally exempt from paying tuition fees at the host institution.
However, candidates should confirm the exact tuition coverage with the university and DAAD, as terms can vary.
Additional Support
Depending on individual circumstances, DAAD may provide a rent subsidy or support for accompanying family members.
Additionally, scholars gain access to DAAD’s extensive alumni network and professional development events.
Eligibility Criteria
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
To begin with, applicants must meet the strict academic and professional requirements set by both Heidelberg University and DAAD.
Academic Background and Degree Age
Candidates must hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent, at least 240 ECTS) in a public health-relevant discipline.
Accepted fields include medical degrees, social sciences, and other health-related qualifications.
Crucially, your last academic degree must not be older than six years at the time of application.
Professional Experience
Applicants need at least one year of relevant work experience.
This experience should ideally include public health work in low- and middle-income settings.
English Language Proficiency
You must demonstrate English proficiency at the B2 level according to the CEFR.
However, applicants whose previous university studies were conducted entirely in English are exempt from providing a test score.
In such cases, you must submit an official letter from your institution confirming English as the sole language of instruction.
Required Documents
Consequently, you must prepare a complete set of documents before starting the online application.
Academic and Professional Proofs
A filled application form is mandatory.
You must upload your Bachelor’s degree certificate and full academic transcripts.
Additionally, provide proof of at least one year of relevant work experience, such as an employer letter.
Identity and Language Documents
A valid passport copy is required.
Furthermore, submit your English language certificate (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL) unless you qualify for the exemption.
If claiming exemption, attach the official medium-of-instruction letter from your university.
Recommendation and Motivation
You need at least one letter of recommendation from your most recent employer.
This letter must be on official letterhead, include an office stamp, and be hand-signed by your referee.
Additionally, prepare a motivation letter explaining why you need the DAAD EPOS scholarship and how you will apply the degree in your home country.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
The application process involves a mandatory choice between the DAAD EPOS scholarship route and the self-funded route.
Step 1: Choose Your Route
First, decide whether you are applying for the DAAD EPOS scholarship or for the self-funded MScIH programme.
If you want DAAD funding, you must apply during the earlier scholarship window (August – October 2026).
If you miss this window, you can only apply as a self-funded student during the later period (October 2026 – March 2027).
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Gather all the documents listed above.
Ensure your degree certificates, transcripts, and recommendation letters are ready in digital format.
Step 3: Submit the Online Application
Navigate to the official Heidelberg MScIH application portal linked on the university’s website.
Complete the online form and upload all required files.
Remember that paper-based applications and documents sent by email will not be accepted.
Step 4: Wait for Selection Results
After the application window closes on 15 October 2026, the Institute of Global Health will review all submissions.
The institute will nominate candidates for the DAAD EPOS scholarship.
Finally, DAAD makes the final funding decision, and candidates will be informed of the outcome by February.
Deadlines and Selection Timeline
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
The university enforces two distinct deadlines for the 2027 intake.
| Stage | Date / Period | Note for Indian Applicants (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| DAAD EPOS Application Window | 15 August – 15 October 2026 | Submit by 14 October IST to avoid portal congestion |
| MScIH Self-Funded Application Window | 16 October 2026 – 31 March 2027 | Only for candidates not seeking DAAD funding |
| Selection Outcome Notification | By February 2027 | Monitor your email regularly |
| Programme Start | September 2027 | Begin visa processing immediately after admission |
Special Notes for Indian Applicants
Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarships 2027
Real Value of the €992 Stipend
At an approximate exchange rate of ₹90–₹95 per euro, €992 translates to roughly ₹89,000 – ₹94,000 per month.
This amount is designed to cover basic living costs in Heidelberg, including accommodation, food, and local transport.
However, exchange rates fluctuate, so treat this figure as indicative only.
The Six-Year Degree Rule
DAAD strictly enforces the rule that your last academic degree must not be older than six years.
Indian applicants with a B.Tech or MBBS completed more than six years ago should verify their eligibility before applying.
Work Experience Requirement
The requirement for one year of relevant work experience is non-negotiable.
Indian applicants should highlight any public health projects, NGO work, or clinical experience in low-resource settings.
Visa and Language Planning
Once selected, Indian nationals must apply for a German student visa.
Although the programme is entirely in English, learning basic German will help with daily life in Heidelberg.
Beware of Unauthorised Agents
No third-party website or agent can submit an application for this scholarship.
Use only the official Heidelberg University application portal linked from the university’s website.
FAQs for Indian Applicants
Eligibility and Degree Rules
1. I have a B.Tech in Computer Science. Can I apply for this public health scholarship?
Your degree must be in a public health-relevant discipline. A standard B.Tech in Computer Science may not qualify unless you can demonstrate substantial public health experience or a related specialisation.
Medical degrees, social sciences, and health-related qualifications are preferred.
2. My Bachelor’s degree is 8 years old. Am I still eligible?
No, DAAD rules state that your last academic degree must not be older than six years at the time of application.
If your degree exceeds this limit, you are not eligible for the DAAD EPOS scholarship. However, you may still apply for the self-funded MScIH programme.
3. Do I need to take IELTS if my previous degree was in English?
If your previous university studies were conducted entirely in English, you are exempt from providing a test score.
However, you must submit an official letter from your institution confirming that English was the sole or principal language of instruction.
Scholarship Value and Application
4. What is the real value of €992 per month in Indian rupees?
At roughly ₹90–₹95 per euro, €992 works out to about ₹89,000 – ₹94,000 per month.
This stipend is meant to cover living costs in Germany. Exchange rates change constantly, so treat this as indicative only.
5. Does the DAAD EPOS scholarship cover full tuition?
DAAD EPOS scholarships typically include a tuition waiver for the listed programme.
However, the MScIH programme has its own tuition structure, so verify the exact coverage with Heidelberg University and DAAD before accepting the offer.
6. What is the difference between the DAAD EPOS and the MScIH application deadlines?
The DAAD EPOS scholarship application window is 15 August – 15 October 2026.
The self-funded MScIH application window is 16 October 2026 – 31 March 2027. You must choose one route; you cannot apply for both simultaneously.
Submission and Visa Logistics
7. Where do I submit my application?
All applications must be submitted online through the official Heidelberg University MScIH application portal linked on the university’s website.
Paper-based applications and documents sent by email will not be accepted.
8. What visa will I need to study in Germany?
You will need a German national student visa (Visum zur Studienaufnahme).
Apply as soon as you receive your admission letter, as processing times at German missions in India can be several weeks.
9. Can I bring my spouse or children to Germany?
DAAD may provide additional support for accompanying family members, but this is assessed case by case.
You must demonstrate sufficient financial resources and suitable accommodation for your dependents.
10. Who makes the final selection decision?
The Institute of Global Health at Heidelberg University nominates candidates for the DAAD EPOS scholarship.
However, the final funding decision rests with DAAD. Therefore, even if you are nominated by the university, DAAD may not award you the scholarship.
