KAAD Programme 1 vs Programme 2: Which One Should You Choose? Many students get confused between KAAD Programme 1 and Programme 2. Both are part of KAAD Scholarship but they are for different types of students.
In this post, we explain the difference between KAAD Programme 1 and Programme 2 in a very simple way. We also tell you which one you should choose.
What is KAAD Programme 1 and Programme 2?
KAAD has two main scholarship programmes:
- Programme 1 → For students who are still living in their home country. (Official Link)
- Programme 2 → For students who are already in Germany. (Official Link)
Let’s understand both programmes clearly.
KAAD Programme 1 vs Programme 2: Easy Comparison Table
| Points | Programme 1 | Programme 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Who can apply? | Students living in their home country | Students already studying in Germany |
| Main Purpose | To come to Germany for Master’s or PhD | To get support to finish studies in Germany |
| Best For | New applicants from Africa, Asia, Middle East, Latin America | Students who are already in Germany on self-fund or other visa |
| Application Process | Apply through local partner in home country | Apply through Catholic university chaplaincy in Germany |
| Study Location | Mostly in Germany (some in-country options) | Already studying in Germany |
| Competition | Higher | Usually less competitive |
| Monthly Stipend | Yes | Yes |
| Most Popular Among | Pakistani, Indian, Nigerian, Kenyan students | Students who went to Germany without scholarship |
Detailed Explanation
KAAD Programme 1 (Most Common)
Who should apply?
- You are currently living in your home country (Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Kenya, etc.)
- You have completed your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
- You want to come to Germany for higher studies
- You have some work experience
What does it offer?
- Full scholarship to study Master’s or PhD in Germany
- Monthly stipend, health insurance, travel cost, German language course
- Possibility of short research stays
Important Note: This is the main programme for most international students from developing countries. If you are reading this from Pakistan or any other developing country, you should apply for Programme 1.
KAAD Programme 2
Who should apply?
- You are already in Germany
- You are studying Master’s or PhD but you don’t have enough money to continue
- You have at least 10 months of studies left
- You came to Germany on your own money or another short scholarship
What does it offer?
- Monthly stipend to help finish your studies
- Health insurance and other support
- Same benefits as Programme 1, but for shorter period
Important Note: You cannot apply for Programme 2 directly from your home country. You must already be in Germany.
See Also: How to Write KAAD Motivation Letter (with Examples)
Which Programme Should You Choose?
Choose Programme 1 if:
- You are still in your home country
- You have never studied in Germany before
- You want full support to start your Master’s or PhD in Germany
- You are a fresh applicant
Choose Programme 2 if:
- You are already living and studying in Germany
- Your current funding is about to finish
- You need financial help to complete your degree
Most students from Pakistan, India, Nigeria, Kenya, and other developing countries should apply for Programme 1.
Can You Apply for Both?
No. You can only apply for one programme at a time. Choose the correct one according to your current situation.
Easy Tips to Decide
- Ask yourself: Am I currently in my home country or already in Germany?
- If you are in your home country → Go for KAAD Programme 1
- If you are already in Germany → Go for KAAD Programme 2
- Contact your local KAAD partner or Catholic diocese for guidance
- Always check the official website kaad.de for latest rules
What to Do Next?
- If you are in your home country: Start with the online questionnaire on kaad.de for Programme 1
- If you are already in Germany: Contact the Catholic university chaplaincy (KHG/KSG) at your university for Programme 2
Have questions? Write in the comments below. Tell us:
- Which country are you from?
- Are you in your home country or already in Germany?
We will try to guide you better.
Good luck, friends! Choosing the right programme is very important. Apply in the correct one and increase your chances of getting the KAAD Scholarship.