Study In Germany For Free: Scholarships For Nigerians (2025)
Studying in Germany is a dream for many Nigerian students—and for good reason. Germany offers world-class education, globally recognized degrees, and most public universities don’t charge tuition fees—even for international students!
But here’s the real jackpot: You can study in Germany completely free and even get paid monthly stipends through scholarships.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
- The top scholarships for Nigerians in 2025
- Monthly stipends, benefits, and eligibility
- Step-by-step application tips
- Universities that admit Nigerians without tuition fees
Let’s get started.
Why Study in Germany?
Germany is one of the most affordable destinations for higher education in the world. Here's why Nigerian students love it:
Benefit |
Details |
No Tuition Fees |
Most public universities charge little or no tuition |
Free Health Insurance (for some) |
Included in some scholarships |
High Monthly Stipends |
Up to €934/month with DAAD and other programs |
World-Class Education |
Highly ranked institutions in STEM, Business, Social Sciences |
Post-Study Opportunities |
18-month post-study job-seeking visa available |
English-Taught Programs |
Many Master's and some Bachelor's programs are fully in English |
Fully Funded Scholarships in Germany for Nigerians (2025)
Here are the best scholarships you can apply for:
1. DAAD Scholarships (Most Popular)
DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offers dozens of fully funded scholarships every year, especially for Master’s and PhD programs.
Benefit |
Details |
Tuition |
100% Covered |
Monthly Stipend |
€934 (Master’s) / €1,200 (PhD) |
Travel & Insurance |
Fully Covered |
Eligible Levels |
Master’s & PhD |
Deadline |
October–December 2024 (varies by program) |
Eligibility:
- First-class or second-class upper degree (B.Sc./B.Eng.)
- At least 2 years of work experience
- Strong motivation and academic potential
Tips:
- Apply directly to German universities that offer EPOS (DAAD-approved) programs
- Write a powerful motivation letter specific to each course
- Ensure you meet language requirements (English or German)
2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports students with a strong interest in sustainability, democracy, or human rights.
Benefit |
Details |
Tuition |
Covered |
Monthly Stipend |
~€934 (Master’s level) |
Other Perks |
Travel and research funding |
Deadline |
March & September 2025 |
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated social commitment
- Strong academic records
- Admission to a German university (or proof of application)
3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship
KAS offers scholarships to international students aiming for Master’s or PhD degrees in Germany, especially those with leadership qualities.
Benefit |
Details |
Tuition |
Covered |
Monthly Stipend |
€861 (Master’s), €1,200 (PhD) |
Extra Support |
Travel, seminars, housing subsidy |
Application Deadline |
July 2025 |
Eligibility:
- Excellent academic performance
- Interest in politics, development, leadership
- Minimum B2 level German (some programs)
4. Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship
This scholarship is for academically strong students from developing countries—including Nigeria.
Stipend Amount |
€850 per month |
Tuition Support |
Covered |
Duration |
Full degree duration |
Deadline |
Rolling (apply anytime) |
Who Should Apply:
- Students with exceptional grades
- Active in social/political causes
- Accepted into a German university
5. Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarship
Ideal for Nigerians studying social sciences, law, or political science, and committed to social justice.
Monthly Stipend |
~€850 |
Other Perks |
Travel and conference allowance |
Level |
Master’s and PhD |
Deadline |
April & October 2025 |
Top Tuition-Free Universities in Germany
Even without a scholarship, you can study tuition-free at these public universities (you’ll only pay small semester fees of ~€250–€350).
University Name |
City |
Known For |
Technical University of Munich (TUM) |
Munich |
Engineering, Tech, Business |
University of Stuttgart |
Stuttgart |
Mechanical Engineering, Architecture |
University of Göttingen |
Göttingen |
Sciences, Humanities |
Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU Munich) |
Munich |
Medicine, Social Sciences, Arts |
RWTH Aachen University |
Aachen |
STEM, Engineering, Research |
University of Mannheim |
Mannheim |
Economics, Social Sciences |
What Documents Do You Need?
Document |
Purpose |
Degree Certificate & Transcript |
Proof of academic background |
CV (in Europass format) |
Education, work experience, leadership |
Letter of Motivation |
Shows your purpose and fit for the program |
Work Experience Letter |
Needed for DAAD and some others |
Proof of Language Proficiency |
IELTS/TOEFL or German (depending on course) |
University Admission Letter |
Optional but increases your chances |
Passport Copy |
Required for visa and application ID |
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Choose your program: Search DAAD or university databases for tuition-free, English-taught programs.
- Prepare your documents early: Some take time (like transcripts, NYSC certs).
- Apply to the university first, then apply for scholarships (except Chevening-style ones).
- Submit your scholarship application: This often includes separate forms and essays.
- Get ready for interviews: DAAD and others may require online or embassy interviews.
Final Tips for Nigerian Applicants
- Apply to multiple programs and scholarships to increase your chances.
- Avoid late applications—deadlines close months before intake.
- Join DAAD Nigeria webinars and reach out to past awardees on LinkedIn.
- Don't pay agents—you can apply for free, yourself.
Final Thoughts
Germany is offering Nigerian students one of the best opportunities for free world-class education in 2025. Whether you're aiming for a DAAD-funded Master's degree or applying directly to a tuition-free public university, the time to start preparing is now.
Take your dream of studying abroad seriously—because it’s very possible.