Heidelberg University DAAD EPOS Scholarship For Master Of Science In International Health 2027 in Germany | Fully Funded — Heidelberg University and DAAD
⚠️ This scholarship's deadline has passed and it's no longer accepting applications.
Public health graduates from developing economies looking to specialize abroad often find Heidelberg’s International Health programme, paired with DAAD EPOS funding, one of the most complete packages available.
About the Scholarship
Heidelberg University’s Master of Science in International Health is supported through the DAAD EPOS scheme, run in cooperation with the Catholic Academic Exchange Service. EPOS specifically funds postgraduate study in subjects related to development, and this programme focuses on health systems, epidemiology, and public health challenges facing low- and middle-income countries. The degree combines coursework at Heidelberg’s Institute of Global Health with fieldwork components, preparing graduates for careers in international health organizations.
Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship removes nearly every financial obstacle to studying in Germany.
- Full tuition waiver for the Master’s programme
- A monthly stipend of 1,300 EUR
- Health insurance coverage for the duration of study
- A travel allowance covering round-trip airfare
- Access to DAAD’s alumni network and career events after graduation
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must come from a qualifying developing or emerging country, as defined by the DAAD’s country list, and hold a Bachelor’s degree, generally four years or 240 ECTS credits, in a public health-related field such as medicine, nursing, or health sciences. At least two years of relevant professional experience is typically expected, along with English proficiency at B2 level or higher. German language skills are not required for admission, though basic German is useful for daily life in Heidelberg.
Fields of Study Covered
The programme centers on international and global health, covering epidemiology, health systems management, maternal and child health, and infectious disease control in resource-limited settings.
Required Documents
- DAAD online application form
- University application to the International Health Master’s programme
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
- CV detailing professional and academic background
- Letter of motivation connecting prior work to development goals
- Two letters of recommendation
- Proof of English proficiency
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
1. Confirm country eligibility against the current DAAD list of developing and emerging countries.
2. Apply to the Heidelberg Master of Science in International Health programme directly through the university.
3. Submit the DAAD EPOS scholarship application alongside required supporting documents.
4. Attend an interview if shortlisted, often conducted by the DAAD regional office.
5. Receive the funding decision, generally communicated several months before the September intake.
6. Begin visa processing once both admission and funding are confirmed.
Selection Process
Selection weighs academic performance, relevant professional experience, and how clearly a candidate’s motivation letter connects their background to development outcomes in their home country. Interviews assess both technical knowledge and realistic plans for applying the degree after graduation.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Candidates with hands-on field experience in public health, even short-term project work, tend to stand out since the programme values applied knowledge over purely academic achievement. Framing the motivation letter around a specific health challenge in the applicant’s home region, rather than general career ambitions, makes for a stronger narrative. Students interested in other DAAD-funded routes may also want to review the DAAD Study Scholarships for Graduates of All Disciplines or the University of Göttingen DAAD Scholarship for Agricultural and Environmental Sciences for comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who counts as being from a developing or emerging country?
DAAD maintains an official, regularly updated list of eligible countries, which applicants should check directly on the DAAD scholarship database before applying.
Is work experience mandatory?
Most successful applicants have at least two years of relevant professional experience, though exceptional academic candidates are sometimes considered without it.
Does the scholarship cover dependents?
The core stipend covers the student only; family members are not automatically included in the funding package.
What happens if my English test scores expire before the deadline?
Applicants should ensure test validity covers the full application and decision period, retaking the test if necessary before submission.
Can self-funded applicants apply to the same programme?
Yes, the university accepts self-funded applicants on a later timeline, generally opening after the scholarship deadline closes.
How competitive is this scholarship?
EPOS scholarships are highly competitive given the limited number of places, so strong academic records and clear development-focused motivation are essential.
Can graduates of other health-related fields apply, such as nursing or nutrition?
Yes, the programme accepts a range of health-related Bachelor’s degrees beyond medicine, including nursing, nutrition science, and public health, as long as the degree is relevant to global health work.
Is it possible to defer admission after receiving the scholarship?
Deferrals are handled on a case-by-case basis and are not guaranteed, so admitted students are generally expected to begin in the intake year they applied for.