Freie Universität Berlin has officially opened applications for the DAAD STIBET I Scholarships 2026, offering an important financial support pathway for international students studying in Germany. Announced on December 10, 2025, this scholarship program aims to help international learners who face additional responsibilities such as refugee experiences, parenting duties, caregiving roles, disabilities, or chronic illness.
Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and supported by the Federal Foreign Office, this initiative ensures that students facing personal or economic challenges can continue their academic journey at one of Germany’s most prestigious universities.
The DAAD-funded scholarships are not based on academic merit, but rather focus on equity, access, and personal circumstances, making them one of the most inclusive opportunities available for international students in Germany.
What the DAAD STIBET I Scholarship at FU Berlin Offers
Selected students will receive:
- €250 monthly stipend
- Funding duration: March 1 – December 31, 2026 (10 months)
- Support aimed at easing personal and family-related challenges, particularly for students who:
- Are refugees
- Are raising children
- Provide caregiving support
- Live with disabilities or chronic illness
The funding helps cover everyday living expenses in Berlin—one of Europe’s most vibrant but increasingly expensive cities—allowing students to focus on academic success without overwhelming financial stress.
Who Can Apply? – Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship aims to support international students who face additional personal or structural challenges. Applicants must meet at least one of the following conditions:
Personal Eligibility
You may apply if you are:
- A student with a refugee background, or
- A parent with a child under 12 years old, or
- A caregiver for a family member, or
- A student with a documented disability (minimum 50%) or a chronic illness that affects your academic performance
Additional Academic and Residency Requirements
Applicants must also:
- Have earned their higher education entrance qualification outside Germany
- Hold non-German citizenship
- Be regularly enrolled in a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or State Examination program at Freie Universität Berlin
(Note: PhD candidates and exchange students are not eligible) - Demonstrate active participation in studies:
- Completed at least one course per semester, or
- Attended two courses if currently in your first semester
- Maintain continuous enrollment for the entire funding period (March–December 2026)
Important Funding Conditions You Should Know
The STIBET I Scholarship is compatible with some public scholarships, but with limitations:
- If you receive another public grant, DAAD may top up your scholarship to reach a maximum of €861 per month
- Your total monthly income (scholarships + part-time work) must not exceed €1,311
- Students with questions about income limits, part-time jobs, or overlapping funding are encouraged to request guidance directly from FU Berlin’s International Office
These rules ensure equitable distribution while preventing funding conflicts with other public support schemes in Germany.
Why This Scholarship Matters for International Students
The DAAD STIBET I Scholarship stands out because it supports international students who often face unseen or under-discussed challenges. Unlike many scholarship programs focused solely on academic excellence, this one recognizes:
- Parenting pressure
- Caregiving demands
- Disability and chronic health challenges
- The realities of refugee students rebuilding their academic lives
This makes it one of the most compassionate and human-centered scholarships offered in Germany. Beyond financial relief, it supports equal access, academic continuity, and the well-being of students navigating complex personal circumstances.
Application Deadline for DAAD STIBET I Scholarship 2026
The final date to apply is: January 11, 2026
Late applications will not be considered, so students must ensure all required documents are submitted on time.
Apply here: https://www.fu-berlin.de/en/sites/mentalwellbeing/news/Scholarship-DAAD-2026.html
The DAAD STIBET I Scholarship at Freie Universität Berlin is a vital opportunity for international students who are balancing education with personal responsibilities. With its monthly stipend, inclusive criteria, and focus on equal access, it provides essential support that empowers students to succeed academically without compromising their well-being.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are currently studying at FU Berlin, this scholarship could significantly reduce your financial burden and help you stay focused on your academic goals throughout 2026.
