Written byFizza Butool ZaidiIELTS teacher for 10+ years, PTE for 5Updated 31 October 2026
The DAAD's language rule
For "Study Scholarships – Master Studies for All Academic Disciplines", the DAAD says you must prove your level in the language of instruction (DAAD scholarship database). For English-taught international programmes, examples of accepted certificates include Cambridge English, IELTS, TOEFL iBT, TOEIC and PTE Academic. For German-taught programmes, they include TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat and telc Deutsch.
The proof should be no older than 3 years. The DAAD asks applicants to submit certificates via the DAAD portal even if the university does not require proof of language skills, and it does not reimburse test fees.
| Programme language | Example certificates | Minimum score |
|---|---|---|
| English | IELTS, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge English, TOEIC | Set by the university |
| German | TestDaF, DSH, DSD, Goethe-Zertifikat, telc Deutsch | Set by the university |
| German and English | Proof of both, as the programme requires | Set by the university |
Who the scholarship is for
The programme funds graduates with at least a first degree, usually no more than 6 years old at the deadline, for a full master's at a state or state-recognised German university, or a year of study in Germany within a master's at home. Funding lasts 10 to 24 months. You cannot apply if you have lived in Germany for more than 15 months at the deadline, and only listed countries are eligible.
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Universities set the bar
The DAAD's admission overview says English-taught international and postgraduate programmes are exempt from German language requirements, but you must show proof of English instead (DAAD requirements). Check the exact IELTS band on your programme's admission page. Requirements change between intakes and scholarship rounds. Confirm the current rule on the DAAD scholarship database entry before you book a test or apply. This guide is general information, not admissions advice.
Frequently asked questions
What IELTS score does DAAD require?+
The DAAD sets none for its master's study scholarship. Your German university sets the score; the DAAD wants proof of the language of instruction.
How old can my IELTS result be for DAAD?+
The DAAD says language proof should be no older than 3 years.
My university waives IELTS. Do I still upload something to DAAD?+
Yes. The DAAD asks you to submit language certificates via its portal even if the university does not require them.
Does DAAD pay for my IELTS test?+
No. The DAAD says language certificate costs are not reimbursed.
Keep reading
Related
- IELTS for Germany
- Studienkolleg: do you need IELTS?
- IELTS for the Germany Opportunity Card
- IELTS validity
- All 3605 guides
Guide updated on 31 October 2026. Individual prices and policies may have earlier observation dates. Confirm current details on the linked official pages before you book or apply.
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