Gloria PenAre you a Nigerian student dreaming of studying abroad for free? Whether you’re aiming to earn your master’s or PhD, DAAD and Erasmus are two of the most trusted scholarship options available for international students.
These programs are fully funded, highly recognized, and open doors to excellent universities in Europe.
In this well researched post, you’ll learn how to apply for DAAD or Erasmus scholarships from Nigeria, explain the requirements, and the differences between the two.
Let’s get started!
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What is the DAAD Scholarship?
DAAD stands for Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, which means the German Academic Exchange Service.
It offers scholarships to international students to study in Germany, mostly for postgraduate and doctoral programs.
It benefits include:
1. Full tuition coverage.
2. Monthly living stipend.
3. Health insurance
4. Travel allowance
5. Support for dependents (in some cases)
What is the Erasmus+ Scholarship?
The Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees (EMJMD) program is a European Union initiative that allows you to study in two or more European countries.
It focuses mainly on master’s degrees and offers world-class education through partnerships between European universities.
What you get for this scholarship:
a. Full tuition fees covered.
b. Monthly allowance.
c. Travel costs and visa support.
d. Relocation and insurance support.
Why Choose DAAD or Erasmus?
Both scholarships are perfect for Nigerians who want to study abroad with little or no cost.
Here’s why they also stand out:
1. This scholarship is highly competitive and fully funded.
2. You’ll have globally recognized degrees after graduation.
3. You’ll enjoy free opportunities to travel and explore new cultures.
4. Strong alumni networks and job opportunities.
Requirements to Apply for DAAD or Erasmus Scholarships
Here are some requirements you need to apply for these scholarships. But before you begin your application, make sure you meet these basic requirements:
Application Requirements For DAAD:
1. A bachelor’s degree (usually with a minimum of 2:1)
2. At least two years of work experience (for most postgraduate programs)
3. Proof of English or German language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or TestDaF)
4. Motivation letter
5. Academic transcripts and certificates.
6. Research proposal (for PhD programs)
Application Requirements For Erasmus:
a. A completed bachelor’s degree.
b. Outstanding academic performance.
c. Proof of English proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL).
d. Motivation letter, Recommendation letters, and CV (usually in Europass format).
Read Also: 6 Easiest ways to Study Abroad from Nigeria
That said, now let’s see how you can successfully apply to these scholarships.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for DAAD or Erasmus Scholarships
Here’s a simplified process to apply for a DAAD scholarship:
Step 1: Search for Eligible Courses: Go to the DAAD official website and search for scholarship programs that match your field of study. Look out for “Postgraduate Courses with Special Relevance to Developing Countries.”
Step 2: Check the Requirements: Carefully read the program-specific requirements. Some courses require German language skills, while others are taught in English.
Step 3: Prepare Your Documents: Start preparing the required documents early. Make sure your motivation letter clearly explains why you chose the course and how it fits your career plans.
Step 4: Submit Your Application: Most DAAD applications are submitted online through the DAAD portal or directly to the university. Double-check deadlines, as they are different from one course to another.
Step 5: Wait for Feedback: Successful candidates are usually notified after a few months. If shortlisted, you might be invited for an interview or to provide additional documents.
How to Apply for Erasmus Scholarships – Step-by-Step
Follow these steps to apply for Erasmus Scholarship:
Step 1: Visit the Erasmus Mundus Catalog: Go to the official Erasmus+ EMJMD catalog and find programs related to your course of interest. The list is updated every year.
Step 2: Check Partner Universities and Countries: Each Erasmus program is hosted by a group of universities in different countries. Choose the one that fits your interests and career goals.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Package: Common requirements include:
a. A strong personal statement.
b. Two recommendation letters.
c. Your CV in Europass format.
d. English proficiency test scores.
Step 4: Apply Online: Applications are done on the program’s official website, not on a central Erasmus portal. Apply to as many programs as you’re eligible for.
Step 5: Attend Interview (if required): Also some programs conduct online interviews. Be ready to speak confidently about your academic journey, passion, and goals.
Differences Between DAAD and Erasmus.
Here are some of the difference between these two scholarships you need to know before you apply:
1. DAAD is only for studying in Germany, while Erasmus covers multiple European countries.
2. DAAD covers master’s and PhD, but Erasmus is mainly for master’s programs.
3. DAAD may require German language skills, depending on the course, while Erasmus programs are mostly in English.
4. Erasmus gives higher mobility opportunities, as you study in two or more countries.
5. Both offer full scholarships, but Erasmus usually includes more travel support and relocation benefits.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application to be Accepted
Below are the things you need to do to strengthen your application for scholarship:
1. Start early: These scholarships are competitive. Hence early preparation gives you enough time to gather documents and write a strong application.
2. Tailor your motivation letter: Focus on how the course aligns with your career goals and how it will impact your home country.
3. Improve your English skills: A good IELTS or TOEFL score boosts your chances of getting a scholarship to study abroad.
4. Get Excellent recommendation letters: Choose referees who know your academic work well.
5. Stay organized: Use a calendar or checklist to track deadlines and requirements. Thank goodness you have learnt how to apply for DAAD or Erasmus scholarships in this post, so there’s no cause for alarm.
Check Also: How to Apply for Scholarship to Study Abroad from Nigeria
FAQs for How to Apply for DAAD and Erasmus scholarships
Q1. Can I apply for both DAAD and Erasmus scholarships at the same time?
Yes, you can apply for both. They are separate programs and do not conflict with each other.
Q2. Is IELTS compulsory?
For Erasmus, yes. For DAAD, it depends on the language of instruction. If your course is in English, an IELTS or TOEFL score is usually required.
Q3. Do I need to pay any application fee?
Most DAAD and Erasmus programs do not charge application fees. So be cautious of scams. As you have read how to apply for DAAD or Erasmus scholarships here, you can even apply by yourself.
Q4. Can I work while studying under these scholarships?
Yes, but it depends on your visa rules and academic workload. However, the scholarships are usually enough to cover your expenses.
Q5. When is the best time to apply?
Applications mostly open between October and January, so you need to begin preparations by August or September.
In Conclusion
Getting a fully funded scholarship like DAAD or Erasmus can change your life forever. They are not just financial aid; they offer exposure, international experience, and academic excellence.
Now that you know how to apply for DAAD or Erasmus scholarships, start preparing today. Don’t wait until the last minute.
Research, plan, and give your best shot. Your dream to study abroad is valid and absolutely achievable with the information gotten here.
Good luck!
And please remember to share this insightful post with your family and friends
Gloria Pen