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If you’re aiming to drive change in global development and want a fully funded opportunity to study in Germany, the DAAD-EPOS Scholarship 2025-26 for the Master of Arts in Development Management at Ruhr University Bochum could be your perfect gateway. This prestigious program is part of the Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and tailored for professionals from developing and newly industrialized countries. With top-tier education, full financial coverage, and rich cultural exposure, you can become a global expert in managing development programs that change lives.
About Ruhr University Bochum and the MADM Program
Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) is one of Germany’s largest research institutions, known for its innovative teaching and interdisciplinary approach. The university consistently ranks among the top German universities in global evaluations and is widely respected for its social sciences and development research programs.
The MA in Development Management (MADM), offered by the Institute of Development Research and Development Policy, has been running since 2000. It is a compact, interdisciplinary, and practice-oriented program that prepares graduates to plan, implement, manage, and evaluate development projects around the world. The medium of instruction is English, and it is structured across three semesters (18 months).
What Makes the DAAD EPOS Program Unique?
- Combines theory, research, and practice in development management
- Includes simulation games, student-led research, and optional internships
- Offers a multicultural and interdisciplinary academic environment
- Provides a solid foundation for work in international development organizations
- Allows students to build a professional global network
DAAD-EPOS Scholarship 2025-26- Overview
| Feature | Details |
| Name | DAAD-EPOS Scholarship – MA in Development Management |
| Host Institution | Ruhr University Bochum (Institute of Development Research and Development Policy) |
| Program Type | Fully Funded Master’s Degree |
| Duration | 18 Months (3 semesters) |
| Intake | September 2026 |
| Scholarship Provider | German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) |
| Application Start Date | 8 January 2025 |
| DAAD EPOS scholarship 2025-26 Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
| Location | Bochum, Germany |
| Language of Instruction | English |
Scholarship Benefits
Selected students for the DAAD-EPOS Scholarship 2026 will receive full financial support, enabling them to focus entirely on their studies and research without financial concerns.
- Monthly stipend of €992 for the duration of the program
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance coverage
- Travel allowance for round-trip airfare, unless otherwise covered
- Optional monthly rent subsidy
- Optional family allowance if applicable
- Free German language course (compulsory for scholarship holders, starts in July)
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the MADM program of the DAAD-EPOS Scholarship 2025, requirements include:
- Be a citizen of a developing or newly industrialized country (check the eligible country list here)
- Hold at least a bachelor’s degree in political science, social science, economics, law, geography, or other development-related fields
- Achieve a minimum academic grade equivalent to second class, upper division
- Possess a minimum of two years’ post-graduation work experience in a development-related field
- Demonstrate clear motivation to pursue a career in development cooperation
- Provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL (79–80 iBT) or IELTS (minimum Band 6.0)
Required Documents
For the DAAD EPOS scholarship 2025-26, apply online with the following documents:
- Signed letter of motivation explaining your interest and choice of program
- Europass CV in reverse chronological order (with no unexplained gaps)
- Certified copies of academic degrees and transcripts, with grading system explanation
- School leaving certificate
- Valid language test certificates (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Employment certificates showing at least two years of work experience after your bachelor’s
- For current employment: a letter that ideally includes a re-employment guarantee
- Two recommendation letters – one academic and one professional (both dated and signed with institutional letterhead and stamp)
- A copy of your passport and a passport-size photo
- Additional documents for DAAD-EPOS applicants: • Completed DAAD checklist
- Completed and signed DAAD scholarship 2025 application form
Application Process
For the DAAD EPOS scholarship 2025, apply online as follows:
- Start your application process after 8 January 2025
- Ensure all required documents are compiled, scanned, and ready
- You must fill out the online DAAD EPOS scholarship 2026 application form and checklist
- Write a clear and tailored letter of motivation (use the same for up to three EPOS programs if applying to more than one)
- Submit the application before 30 September 2025 to the program coordinator
- You can find the full scholarship details on the DAAD scholarship 2025 official website
Apply earlier and never miss your chance to study in Germany with a fully funded scholarship in 2025-26.
DAAD-EPOS MADM vs. Similar Programs
| Feature | DAAD-EPOS MADM at RUB | Erasmus Mundus GLODEP | IDS MA Development Studies (UK) |
| Duration | 18 months | 24 months | 12 months |
| Tuition | Free | Partial/Full | High (~£20,000) |
| Scholarship | Fully funded (DAAD-EPOS) | Limited availability | Partial scholarships |
| Internship | Optional | Mandatory | Optional |
| Research focus | High | Medium | High |
| Language | English | English | English |
| Work Experience Required | Yes (2 years) | Preferred | Not mandatory |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I apply if I’m still completing my degree?
You need to have your degree completed and your transcript available before applying. - Is German language required?
The course is in English. However, DAAD-EPOS scholars must attend a mandatory German language class starting in July before the program begins. - How many programs can I apply to under DAAD-EPOS?
You may apply to a maximum of three DAAD-EPOS courses, using the same motivation letter for each (with prioritized preference clearly indicated). - Can I apply without the re-employment guarantee?
It is not mandatory but strongly preferred for DAAD-EPOS applicants. It strengthens your application. - What happens after graduation?
Graduates often go on to work in international NGOs, UN agencies, policy institutions, and government ministries focused on development.
This fully funded scholarship in Germany empowers professionals from the Global South to acquire world-class training, return home, and actively contribute to sustainable development. The scholarship isn’t just financial aid; it’s a strategic investment in global equity, capacity building, and future leadership in development sectors. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are committed to making a lasting impact on your country’s development, don’t miss this opportunity. APPLY NOW by preparing your documents early, seeking recommendation letters in advance, and starting work on a compelling motivation letter.
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Apply for DAAD EPOS Scholarship 2025-26 to study MA in Development Management in Germany. Provides monthly stipend, travel, health insurance.
