If you are from Vietnam and want to study in Germany, you can compete for several types of funding. The most realistic options are government scholarships, university fee waivers or grants, and Erasmus Mundus programmes. The best choice depends on your study level, grades, language skills, and how complete your documents are.
Main scholarship paths
Most students should start with these options:
- German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) scholarships - these are among the best known and often support Master's, PhD, or research stays.
- Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters - these are international Master's programmes with scholarships funded by the EU and partner universities.
- University scholarships or fee waivers - some universities offer tuition discounts, merit awards, or support for international students.
- Foundation scholarships - some German political, religious, or private foundations also fund talented students.
For every option, check the official source only. Use the DAAD scholarship database, the university admissions or financial aid page, or the scholarship provider's own site.
DAAD scholarships
DAAD is one of the most realistic places to look for a student from Vietnam. Many DAAD programmes are open to international applicants, but each call has its own rules.
- Usually needed: strong grades, clear study goal, degree certificates, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, and sometimes proof of work experience.
- Language: some programmes ask for German, many Master's programmes accept English. Always check the programme page for the exact level.
- When they open: many calls open once a year, often several months before the study start date. Deadlines vary a lot by programme.
- What they may cover: monthly support, travel allowance, insurance, or other study-related costs, depending on the scheme.
DAAD is competitive, so a complete application matters. Missing documents, weak motivation, or unclear study plans can reduce your chances.
Erasmus Mundus joint programmes
Erasmus Mundus can be a strong option if you want a Master's degree with study in more than one country. Many Vietnamese students apply successfully, but the competition is high.
- Usually needed: bachelor's degree or final-year proof, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, references, and language proof if required.
- Language: many programmes use English, but some ask for another language too. Check the individual programme page.
- When they open: most application rounds open in autumn or winter for the following academic year, but each programme sets its own schedule.
- What they may cover: tuition, monthly stipend, travel, installation costs, and insurance, depending on the programme rules.
If you apply, make sure your documents show both academic strength and a clear reason for choosing the programme. Selection committees usually want a good fit, not only high marks.
University waivers and internal grants
Some German universities offer their own scholarships, tuition waivers, or emergency grants. These are often smaller than national scholarships, but they can still help with living or study costs.
- Usually needed: proof of admission or application, academic records, financial need statement, and sometimes social or volunteer background.
- Language: usually the language of the programme or the university's application system.
- When they open: often before the semester starts, or once or twice a year. Some have short windows, so check early.
- Where to look: the university's admissions page, scholarship office page, or international office page.
Not every university offers funding for every programme. Private universities may also have tuition discounts, but you should always read the exact conditions on the programme page.
Foundations and other scholarships
German foundations can be a realistic choice if you have strong grades, social engagement, or a clear profile. Some focus on academic excellence, others on leadership, values, or community work.
- Usually needed: transcripts, CV, motivation letter, recommendation letters, and proof of involvement outside class.
- Language: often German for many foundation scholarships, especially at Master's or PhD level, but not always.
- When they open: usually once or twice per year, depending on the foundation.
These scholarships can be highly competitive. A good fit between your background and the foundation's goals is often as important as your grades.
How to build a stronger profile
A strong profile does not guarantee funding, but it helps you compete better. Scholarship reviewers want evidence, not only interest.
- Prepare clean documents: passport, degree certificates, transcripts, CV, motivation letter, reference letters, and language proof.
- Keep your academic story clear: explain what you studied, why it matters, and what you want to do next.
- Show results: grades, projects, internships, research, volunteer work, or awards.
- Match the scholarship: change your motivation letter for each programme. Do not send the same text everywhere.
- Check translations: some applications need certified translations or notarised copies. Read the official rules carefully.
If you are still studying, you can start preparing early. Many applicants lose points because they upload incomplete files or rush the motivation letter.
When to apply and where to check
There is no single scholarship calendar for Germany. Deadlines depend on the programme, university, or foundation.
- For DAAD: check the official DAAD scholarship database and the specific programme page.
- For Erasmus Mundus: check the official programme website for the current call, eligibility, and deadline.
- For university funding: check the university admissions page, the international office, or the scholarship office.
- For student visas: check the German embassy or consulate and the national immigration authority for financial proof rules.
Be careful with websites that copy old deadlines. Always use the official source for the current year.
Common questions
Can a student from Vietnam get a full scholarship in Germany?
Yes, but it is competitive. Full funding is more common in DAAD, Erasmus Mundus, or some foundation programmes than in university-level waivers.
Do I need German to win a scholarship?
Not always. Many Master's scholarships are for English-taught programmes, but German can help for some foundations, bachelor's study, and daily life.
What matters most in the application?
Usually your grades, your motivation, and complete documents. A clear plan and a profile that matches the scholarship can make a real difference.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level and documents, and admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
This can help you get noticed earlier by programmes that match your background and goals.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.