The DAAD SECAI Scholarship 2026 offers an exceptional opportunity for students passionate about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and related fields to pursue higher education in Germany. This prestigious scholarship supports international students who aim to study at TU Dresden or Leipzig University—two leading institutions renowned for their innovation and research. Whether your background is in computer science, law, social sciences, engineering, or medicine, SECAI welcomes interdisciplinary talent ready to shape the future of AI.
The scholarship not only covers living expenses in Germany but also fosters diversity, internationalisation, and academic excellence. It is awarded primarily based on academic merit, while also considering personal hardships, such as refugee status or systemic disadvantages. Special encouragement is given to women in STEM fields. Through the DAAD SECAI Scholarship 2026, recipients gain access to a vibrant academic network, research opportunities, and a platform to launch a meaningful AI career in Germany’s thriving academic landscape.
Scholarship Summary
- Country: Germany
- Scholarship for: Master’s
- Eligibility Countries: All
- Benefits: Fully Funded
- Scholarship Number: 20
- Duration: Up to 24 months
- Number of Scholarships: 20
- Deadline: 30 June 2025
Scholarship Benefits
- The grant includes a monthly allowance of 934 EUR, as specified in the SECAI scholarship regulations.
- Any extra income must be declared to the scholarship authority.
- If a student’s gross income exceeds 520 EUR, the scholarship may be reduced by the excess amount.
- Foreign students may be eligible for a monthly family allowance in addition to the standard grant.
Application Requirements
Students can apply if they meet all of the following criteria:
- They are currently enrolled or will soon be enrolled in a Master’s program at TU Dresden or Leipzig University.
- It is possible to apply for the scholarship while also applying for admission to a Master’s program.
- This requires two independent applications (one for the scholarship, one for the study program).
- Their field of study is closely related to the research areas of SECAI, including but not limited to the following programs:
- TU Dresden (TUD):
- M.Sc. Computer Science
- M.Sc. Computational Modelling and Simulation
- Track: Applied Artificial Intelligence
- Track: Computational Life Science
- M.Sc. Nanoelectronic Systems
- Leipzig University (UL):
- M.Sc. Data Science
- M.Sc. Bioinformatics (Bioinformatik)
- M.Sc. Medical Informatics (Medizininformatik)
- TU Dresden (TUD):
- Students from other programs may also apply if they have specialised in an AI-related topic through elective courses, project work, or thesis topics. Relevant programs include:
- M.Sc. or Diplom programs in Computer Science
- LL.M. (Master of Laws) with a focus on legal aspects of AI
- M.A. studies at TUD or UL with a focus on human and societal dimensions of AI
- M.Sc. in Psychology focusing on socio-technical systems and human-machine interaction
- All applicants must show an above-average academic track record, typically with a cumulative GPA of 1.7 or better (based on the German grading system).
- Exceptions may be granted in cases of adverse personal circumstances.
- Students in German Diplom programs are considered Master’s level applicants after completing the first two years of their study (Grundstudium).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The DAAD SECAI Scholarship 2026 offers financial support to exceptional Master’s students in AI-related fields at TU Dresden and Leipzig University. With a monthly allowance of €934, it aims to foster academic excellence and diversity in AI studies.
What is the DAAD SECAI Scholarship 2026?
The DAAD SECAI Scholarship 2026 supports outstanding Master’s students pursuing AI-related studies at TU Dresden or Leipzig University. It covers living expenses, enabling recipients to focus on academics, research, and building professional networks.
Who is eligible to apply for the DAAD SECAI Scholarship?
Eligibility requires current or prospective Master’s students at TU Dresden or Leipzig University with a GPA of 1.7 or better (German scale). Applicants should have a strong academic record and a study focus closely related to SECAI’s AI research areas.
Which study programs qualify for the SECAI Scholarship?
Qualifying programs include M.Sc. in Computer Science, Computational Modelling and Simulation, Data Science, Nanoelectronic Systems, Bioinformatics, and Medical Informatics. Other programs with AI-related specialisations may also be considered.
How much funding does the SECAI Scholarship provide?
The scholarship offers a monthly allowance of €934 to cover living expenses. Additional income exceeding €556 must be declared, and the scholarship amount may be adjusted accordingly. Foreign students may be eligible for a monthly family allowance.
What is the application process for the SECAI Scholarship?
Applicants must submit a motivation letter, CV, Bachelor’s certificate, transcript of records, and a declaration of other income. Applications should be sent to [email protected], preferably via the TU Dresden SecureMail Portal.
When are the application deadlines for the 2026 scholarship?
For the Winter term, applications must be received by May 19 (first round) or June 30 (second round). First-round applications are decided earlier to aid in planning. Ensure all documents are complete and submitted by these deadlines.
Can I apply for the scholarship while applying for a Master’s program?
Yes, it’s possible to apply for the SECAI Scholarship concurrently with your Master’s program application. However, these are two independent applications, and each must be completed and submitted separately according to its respective requirements.
Are there any special considerations for applicants with unique circumstances?
SECAI considers special personal circumstances, such as applicants who are systematically disadvantaged, prosecuted in their home countries, or refugees of war. Exceptions to the GPA requirement may be made in such cases.
How long does the SECAI Scholarship funding last?
The funding duration aligns with the standard period of study for the recipient’s program. Shorter durations may be determined based on available budget and the candidate’s specific study situation and progress.
Is the SECAI Scholarship open to international students?
Yes, the SECAI Scholarship aims to improve internationalisation and diversity in AI-related programs. International students meeting the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply and may receive additional support, such as a family allowance.
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