TU Berlin DAAD EPOS Scholarship Opens Applications for 2026 Intake

Applications are now being accepted for the Technische Universität (TU) Berlin DAAD EPOS Scholarship, a fully funded opportunity for international students to pursue a Master of Science in Urban Management. The program, commencing in October 2026, is designed for professionals from developing countries seeking to enhance their expertise in sustainable urban development. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2025.

Comprehensive Funding for Urban Management Studies

The DAAD EPOS scholarship, offered in partnership with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), covers a wide range of expenses for selected students. This includes a travel allowance to and from Germany, monthly rent subsidies, allowances for accompanying family members (if applicable), a monthly stipend to cover living costs, and comprehensive health, accident, and personal liability insurance. The three-semester program aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary to address complex urban challenges in their home countries.

Eligibility Criteria and Application Requirements

To be eligible for the TU Berlin DAAD EPOS Scholarship, applicants must be citizens of a developing country and hold a Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field. Acceptable fields include Geography, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Law, Political and Social Science, Business and Administration, Economics, and International Development. A minimum of two years of professional experience in a field related to urban management is also required. Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English.

The application process requires several key documents, including a signed DAAD application form, a motivation letter outlining the applicant's interest in urban management and how the program aligns with their career goals, a Europass CV detailing their educational and professional background, certified degree certificates and transcripts (with official translations if the originals are not in English or German), work experience certificates (on official letterhead) confirming at least two years of relevant experience, an employer recommendation letter (also on official letterhead), proof of English language proficiency, and a completed DAAD checklist.

Historical Context and the Significance of Development-Related Postgraduate Courses

The DAAD's Development-Related Postgraduate Courses (EPOS) program has a long history of supporting professionals from developing countries. Established several decades ago, the program reflects Germany's commitment to international development and capacity building. Dr. Anya Schmidt, a Professor of International Education at the University of Heidelberg, notes, "The EPOS program is a cornerstone of Germany's development cooperation efforts. It provides crucial opportunities for professionals from developing nations to acquire advanced knowledge and skills that are directly applicable to addressing pressing challenges in their home countries. The focus on practical application and sustainable solutions is particularly valuable."

Expert Perspective: The Growing Importance of Urban Management

"With increasing urbanization in many parts of the developing world, the need for skilled urban planners and managers is more critical than ever," says urban planning consultant, Ben Carter. "Programs like the TU Berlin DAAD EPOS Scholarship play a vital role in equipping professionals with the knowledge and tools to create sustainable, resilient, and equitable cities. The interdisciplinary nature of the Urban Management program at TU Berlin is particularly beneficial, as it allows students to develop a holistic understanding of the complex challenges facing urban areas."

Navigating the Application Process

Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to carefully review the application instructions available on the official TU Berlin website. The DAAD checklist is a crucial tool to ensure all required documents are included in the application package. While an admission letter from TU Berlin is not generally required at the initial application stage for the DAAD EPOS program, applicants should familiarize themselves with the university's admission requirements in case they are selected for the scholarship and need to formally enroll.

Host Country: Germany University: TU Berlin Scholarship Name: DAAD EPOS Study Level: Master of Science Program Name: Urban Management Deadline: August 31st, 2025

Application Checklist:

Signed DAAD application form Motivation letter Europass CV Certified degree certificates and transcripts (with translations, if needed) Work experience certificate(s) (2+ years, on official letterhead) Employer recommendation letter (on official letterhead) English proficiency proof DAAD checklist