The DAAD Third Country Programme Central America supports the development of strong and internationally oriented higher education systems in Latin America. Through this programme, the Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst, popularly known as German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), awards scholarships for development-related Master’s and doctoral studies. The DAAD scholarship is supported by The Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development.
The programme targets people who plan to pursue careers in teaching or research at higher education institutions in the region. By training future academic and professional leaders, it contributes to sustainable development across Central America and the Dominican Republic. On this guide, you will find information about our DAAD scholarship programmes for international students and researchers as well as offers from other selected funding organisations.
Programme Objectives and Long-Term Impact
The programme pursues three main objectives:
- Graduates qualify for responsible positions in their region of origin.
- The participation of women and underprivileged groups increases.
- Partner institutions strengthen their organisational, financial, and personnel capacities.
In the long term, the programme aims to achieve the following impacts:
- Qualified professionals actively contribute to solving development-related problems in Latin America.
- Graduates strengthen education and research capacity in the region.
- Partner universities and institutions improve their structures and regional networking.
Who Can Apply?
The programme focuses primarily on university staff while also addressing the broader need for academically trained personnel in the public sector.
Eligible Applicants
You can apply if you are a graduate from Central America or the Dominican Republic and meet the following conditions:
For Master’s programmes
- You hold a first academic degree (Bachelor’s or Licenciatura) with above-average results.
- You completed your last university degree no more than six years before the application deadline.
- You demonstrate clear motivation and strong commitment.
- You have thorough knowledge of the language of instruction.
- You are a national or permanent resident of a Central American country (except Costa Rica) or the Dominican Republic.
For PhD programmes
- You hold a Master’s degree (or equivalent) with above-average results (at least Second Class Upper Division or equivalent).
- You completed your last university degree no more than six years before the application deadline.
- You meet the same motivation, language, and nationality requirements as Master’s applicants.
Preferred profiles include:
- Staff members of public universities
- Candidates considered for teaching or research positions
- Professionals from the public sector
- Alumni of the DAFI programme
Fresh graduates and other motivated candidates may also apply. Female applicants, refugees with recognised status, and candidates from less privileged groups receive special encouragement.
Important notes:
- Host institutions may set additional admission requirements.
- Applicants who have already received a DAAD Master’s scholarship cannot receive further Master’s funding from DAAD.
What the DAAD Central America Scholarship Supports
The In-Region Scholarship Programme funds studies in subject areas that have strong relevance to national and regional development. Scholars study in another Central American country (outside their home country or the country for which they hold a residence permit).
Duration of Funding
DAAD provides funding for the regular duration of the chosen degree programme. The exact period appears in each individual call for applications.
Please note the following:
- The maximum funding period equals the remaining time of the regular study programme.
- If you start the scholarship later than planned, the funding duration shortens accordingly.
- The standard period of study follows the agreement between the host university and DAAD.
DAAD Third Country Programme Scholarship Benefits
The scholarship generally includes:
- Monthly scholarship payment
- Study and research allowance
- Thesis publishing costs
- Tuition fees (paid directly to the host institution)
Additional benefits for In-Region scholarship holders:
- Travel allowance
- Health insurance
- Family allowance (available upon separate application if spouse or children accompany the scholar)
In some cases, DAAD may not cover every item listed in the university’s official fee structure.
Additional Opportunities for Scholarship Holders
Scholarship holders gain access to further academic and professional development options:
- Short-term research stays in Germany (2 to 6 months) for research-based Master’s programmes
- Summer Schools in Germany (usually four weeks)
- E-Trainings and Soft Skill Trainings
These opportunities help scholars expand their international networks and strengthen their academic profiles.
Selection Process
All applicants must submit a complete application through the DAAD Portal.
Each host institution may have specific requirements, so candidates should carefully read the individual call for applications. Selection considers academic performance, motivation, development relevance, and the applicant’s potential to contribute to higher education in the region.
Currently Open Calls and Application Deadlines
Guatemala
- University of San Carlos (USAC)
– Master’s Degree in Sanitary Engineering
– Master’s Degree in Water Resources
Application deadline in the DAAD Portal: 08 February 2026
Costa Rica
- Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR)
– Master in Atmospheric Sciences
– Master in Biology
– Master in Hydrology
Application deadline in the DAAD Portal: 20 March 2026 - Instituto Tecnológico de Costa Rica (ITCR) and Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR)
– Academic Doctorate in Engineering
Application deadline in the DAAD Portal: 20 March 2026 - University for Peace (UPEACE)
– Master in Environment, Development and Peace
– Master in Conflict Resolution, Peace and Development
Application deadline in the DAAD Portal: 30 April 2026
Previously Closed Calls
Some programmes have already closed their application windows. One example includes:
- Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica (UNA) – Master in Tropical Diseases (deadline was 15 April 2025)
New calls may open in the future. Candidates should regularly check the DAAD Scholarship Database for updates.
How to Apply for DAAD Third Country Programme Central America
- Review the currently open programmes listed above.
- Download and carefully read the specific call for applications of your chosen programme.
- Prepare all required documents according to the instructions.
- Submit your complete application via the DAAD Portal before the stated deadline.
- Apply separately for admission to the host university if required.
Why This Programme Matters
The DAAD Third Country Programme Central America plays a strategic role in building academic capacity in the region. By supporting Master’s and PhD studies within Central America, it helps universities retain talent, improve teaching quality, and strengthen research collaboration.
Graduates of the programme often return to contribute as lecturers, researchers, and professionals who address key development challenges in their countries.
Official Resources
Interested applicants should consult the official DAAD Scholarship Database and the individual calls for applications for the most accurate and up-to-date information, including exact benefit amounts and detailed application instructions.
Closing Remarks
The DAAD In-Region Scholarship Programme for Central America offers a valuable opportunity for motivated graduates who wish to advance their academic careers while contributing to the development of higher education in Latin America.
There is no application fee. Late or incomplete applications are not accepted. You can take a look at How to Verify Scholarships, Fellowships, Grants, and Financial Aid Funding. You can also learn How to Avoid Scholarship Scams. Finally, you can Apply for DAAD Third Country Programme Central America Scholarship.
Candidates should prepare their applications carefully and submit them well before the relevant deadlines in 2026. Early preparation and a strong focus on development relevance significantly improve the chances of success.