Many German public universities offer tuition-free master’s and PhD programs for international students, and they’re open to Nigerian students as well.
But getting the right information on how to study in Germany tuition-free can be tricky. There are many confusing guides online on when and how to apply to a university of your choice, how to apply through DAAD, how to verify your WAEC and NYSC certificates, and how much money you need to have before you’ll be allowed into Germany. This guide covers all the necessary steps you’ll need to take — in the right order.
Why Study In Germany For Free (And What It Actually Costs)
In 2014, the 16 states in Germany removed tuition fees for both local and international undergraduates in public universities across the country. However, in 2017, the state of Baden-Württemberg — home to the Universities of Heidelberg, Freiburg, Tübingen, etc. — became the exception. The state reintroduced tuition fees for its non-EU/EEA students across the universities in the state.
Students who attend public universities in Baden-Württemberg are required to pay €1,500 every semester, in addition to the semester fee. However, there are exemptions for some DAAD-funded students and eligible DAAD EPOS scholarship holders.
“Tuition-free” universities don’t mean you’re not going to pay a single euro. Students in all 16 states are required to pay the semester fee between €100 and €400, depending on the university.
Service Fees
Local and international students attending public universities in Germany have to pay a semester fee between €150 and €350, depending on the university. They also have to pay Student union (Studierendenwerk) fees and health insurance (unless you have proof of health insurance).
Accommodation
International students pay for their accommodation as well. According to the German Academic Exchange Service, also known as the DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austausch Dienst), more than 40% of international students live in halls of residence for €250 to €300 monthly. Since the halls cannot cover all students, some students can share a flat, and it usually costs between €250 and €800 per room monthly, depending on what city you live in. Living alone can be more expensive, usually between €450 and €1,000 monthly. Also remember that most flats in Germany aren’t furnished before they’re rented out.
Transportation
In Germany, Deutschlandsemesterticket is a discounted semester public transportation ticket included in semester fees by most German universities for its students.
Proof of Funds
This is a very crucial part of the visa application process that many applicants do not always know about. What this means is that you have to prove that you have enough money to sustain yourself in Germany. You can do this through a blocked account.
The Two-Stage Application Process
Many first-time applicants get it wrong by applying for DAAD first.
There is a process to follow, and it comes in two stages:
- Apply to the university first: You can apply through the university’s application portal and follow the required steps. After that, a selection committee will go through your application and academic credentials before deciding if you’ll be shortlisted or not.
- Apply for DAAD scholarship after you have been selected: If the university considers you eligible for a scholarship, you’ll be contacted by DAAD to upload your application on its portal.
DAAD, also known as Development-Related Postgraduate Courses when translated to English, doesn’t curate the list of eligible applicants itself; the universities involved select the applicants that meet the requirements.
Keep it in mind that you can’t apply for a DAAD scholarship without applying to a university program and getting selected. Also, each program has its own special requirements so confirm that you’re on the right track when processing your application.
German University Selection Matrix
EPOS programs that are development-related and taught in English aren’t available in all German universities.
Some of the options in the DAAD EPOS course catalogue include:
| University | Program / Field | Degree | English-taught | Application Process |
| University of Bonn | Global HealthAgricultural Sciences, Development Economics | MSc | Yes | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
| University of Hohenheim | Agricultural Economics | MSc | Yes | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
| University of Leipzig | SEPT — Small Enterprise Promotion & Training | MBA | MBA | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
| Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin | International Health | MSc | Yes | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
| University of Freiburg | Environmental Governance | MSc | Yes | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
| TU Berlin | Urban Management | MSc | Yes | Apply to the programme first, then submit documents to DAAD if shortlisted |
DAAD EPOS Application Checklist
When it is time to upload your documents on the DAAD portal, you’ll need these documents:
- DAAD EPOS checklist: Printed, signed and dated by your hand, and then scanned.
- DAAD application form: Fill out and submit this online, not handwritten.
- CV: List your work experiences starting with the most recent one down to your first. Any gaps in your work experience or education should be properly explained.
- Motivation letter: Explain why you applied for the program, your academic and career goals, and also how your work can contribute to development in your country or region.
- Degree certificates and transcripts: Your degree shouldn’t be older than six years at the time of application. You’ll need certified translations if they are not in English or German.
- Work experience: At least two years of professional work experience after completing your first degree.
- Language certificate: Proof of English or German proficiency varies depending on the requirements from your chosen program.
- Recommendation letter(s): The letter should come from a university lecturer or an employee — a signed and stamped letter with official letterhead.
In addition, you must have a citizenship certificate from an eligible country and have a relevant bachelor’s degree.
For funding, DAAD EPOS master’s students get a monthly fund of €992, with insurance coverage on health, accident and personal liability.
WAEC/NECO and NYSC Certificate Verification
Having your credentials verified is an essential part of applying to German universities, and it is equally essential to start this process early.
- WAEC and NECO results: These results may have to be verified through the appropriate examination body’s verification system if requested by the German university. In some cases, some universities ask that documents be submitted through uni-assist — many German universities use this application service to verify applications from international students.
- University certificates and transcripts: Uni-assist will require certified translations if your documents are not written in English or German.
- NYSC certificate: Keep your NYSC discharge or exemption certificate close by; some universities may ask for them. But it shouldn’t be part of your application if not demanded.
Blocked Account Setup
Sperrkonto, also known as a blocked account, is a special type of German bank account where applicants deposit proof of funds. The money is deposited in the account before travelling, and after your arrival, you receive monthly payments from it.
This is part of the visa requirement for most applicants without scholarships. But DAAD scholars do not need this because the scholarship covers this requirement — but to be certain, confirm what requirements a scholarship student needs with the German visa office.
The confirmed fee you need for a blocked account is €11,904. This is €992 monthly for a year. The reported €11,208 figure is outdated.
Expatrio and Fintiba are two of the verified providers for Nigerian applicants applying for a German visa.
To set up a blocked account, first choose between the two providers and log in to the website on your phone or laptop. Fill in your details and pick the blocked-account option. Upload the documents required by the website. After this is completed, you’ll receive the bank details to transfer the money. Transfer from your Nigerian bank account, and once it is deposited and verified, you’ll get a blocked-account confirmation document.
It takes between one to five business days for transfers done on Expatrio to be successfully completed.
After the process and statement of account are completed, submit it along with your student visa application. When you arrive in Germany, complete the extra steps for you to get access to your €992 monthly allowance.
The Motivation Letter and “Development Contribution” Requirement
EPOS is not necessarily just an academic scholarship; it is more than that. It is a guide to aid your development, studying, work experience, future plans, and to make sure that it is connected to a problem that you’ll be able to solve when you return home.
Instead of starting your motivation letter with “you want to give back to your country”, preferably say what sectors you’ve noticed these problems reside in, state the problems themselves, and also explain how the EPOS programme will help you with the knowledge and expertise to solve them by the time you complete your program.
Make sure that your letter reflects your previous work experiences, your program, and your future plans — avoid generic templates.
If you want to make sure your letter covers what DAAD reviewers are looking for, the Full Application Audit specifically covers motivation letter reviews.
It Works: From FUOYE to a DAAD PhD
Bolaji Fakorede’s story is a real-life example that this process works and that it works for Nigerian applicants.
A graduate from the Federal University Oye-Ekiti with an MSc in Soil Science and Land Resources Management, and an Adjunct Lecturer in the same department. Fakorede was awarded with a DAAD doctoral scholarship for the 2026/2027 academic year after following the right sequences accordingly — university-level nomination first, then DAAD scholarship next.
Where to Go From Here
German universities’ tuition-free education is open to interested Nigerian students. The biggest challenge is understanding and knowing how to go about the application the right way. If you submit a strong application, it may increase your chances of getting a DAAD scholarship.
By starting early, keeping your documents verified, and tailoring your motivation letter to address real-world development challenges, you can build a competitive application that stands out to selection committees.
Need One-on-One Guidance for Your Application?
Navigating university admissions, scholarship documents, and visa requirements can be overwhelming without expert direction. If you need personalized support auditing your application documents or refining your motivation letter, explore our Pursuit More Coaching Services to get 1-on-1 expert guidance tailored to your academic goals.