The DAAD Scholarship: For Arts, Design, and Film Applicants. Germany, with its rich cultural heritage and advanced educational system, is an ideal destination for artists seeking to expand their horizons. The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship programme offers exceptional opportunities for postgraduate and complementary studies in Fine Art, Design, Visual Communication, and Film. Here’s how you can navigate the application process and maximize your chances of securing this prestigious scholarship.
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Objective of the Scholarship Programme
The DAAD scholarship aims to support artists in furthering their education in Germany. It provides funding for postgraduate or complementary studies, fostering an exchange of experiences and networking among peers in the arts. This programme is particularly tailored for those who have already completed a first university degree in the field of arts.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for the DAAD scholarship, you must have obtained your first university degree in the field of arts. The programme is designed to fund:
- Master’s or Postgraduate Degree Courses: These must lead to a final qualification at a recognized German university.
- Complementary Studies Without a Degree: These can include a study year in Germany as part of your degree programme at your home university, or an independent project or complementary study course under the supervision of a German professor or instructor.
Funding is not available for postgraduate programmes that have already commenced in Germany. Additionally, if your programme includes a study period abroad, funding for this period is only possible under specific conditions: the visit must be essential to the scholarship’s objective, must not take place in your home country, and should not exceed a quarter of the scholarship duration.
Funding Duration and Value
Master’s or Postgraduate Degree Courses:
- Duration: Between 10 and 24 months, depending on the length of the programme.
- Start Date: Usually from October 1st of the following year, or earlier if preceded by a German language course.
- Funding covers the standard period of study, up to a maximum of 24 months. You must specify the entire period for which you seek funding in your application. After the first year, your academic progress will be reviewed to determine continued funding.
Complementary Studies Without a Degree:
- Duration: One academic year.
- Start Date: Typically from October 1st of the following year, or earlier if preceded by a German language course.
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Scholarship Benefits:
- Monthly payment of 934 euros.
- Travel allowance.
- One-off study allowance.
- Payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
- Potential additional benefits, such as a monthly rent subsidy and allowances for family members.
- In case of disability or chronic illness, possible subsidies for necessary additional costs not covered by other sources.
- Green Mobility Top Up for climate-friendly travel or carbon offset reimbursements for air travel.
Language Preparation and Support
To facilitate your stay in Germany, the DAAD offers several language learning opportunities:
- Payment for an online German language course after receiving the Scholarship Award Letter.
- A pre-study German language course (2, 4, or 6 months) if required.
- An allowance for a self-selected German language course during the scholarship period.
- Reimbursement of TestDaF or DSH test fees, taken either before arrival or during the funding period.
Application Process
The application process consists of two main steps: submitting the application documents and uploading work samples.
- Submission of Application Documents:
- Complete the online application form on the DAAD portal.
- Provide a full curriculum vitae and a letter of motivation (1-3 pages).
- Include a detailed study plan and information about your preferred master’s programmes.
- Submit proof of acceptance from your host university (if available), or ensure you apply for admission on time.
- Provide transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of language proficiency.
- For complementary studies, include confirmation of supervision or proof of credit recognition from your home university.
- Submission of Work Samples:
- After the initial application check, you will receive a link to upload your work samples to the DAAD media database. Follow the provided instructions carefully and meet all deadlines.
Selection Process and Criteria
The selection process, taking up to five months, involves a formal check of your application followed by an evaluation by a DAAD committee of German professors. Key selection criteria include:
- Artistic Qualification and Maturity: Assessed through study achievements and work samples.
- Project Quality: Evaluated based on the study plan and letter of motivation.
Equal opportunity aspects are also considered during the selection process.
Important Considerations
- Scholarship confirmation does not guarantee university admission. You must meet the admission requirements and deadlines of your chosen university, which may involve entrance exams.
- Ensure all documents are complete and submitted by the deadline, as incomplete applications will not be considered.
By adhering to these guidelines and thoroughly preparing your application, you can enhance your chances of securing a DAAD scholarship and advancing your artistic career in Germany. Good luck!
