The DAAD is the world’s largest funding organisation for the international exchange of students and researchers.

Its activities go far beyond simply awarding grants and scholarships. The DAAD supports the internationalisation of German higher education institutions, promotes German studies and the German language abroad, assists developing countries in establishing effective higher education institutions and advises decision makers on matters of cultural, education and development policy.

Building on prior lasting achievements in promoting excellent students and researchers, the DAAD wants to prepare future professionals and leaders to act responsibly and create enduring connections around the world – not least by forming a cultural and professional network of its scholarship recipients and alumni. The DAAD is also the national agency for European higher education cooperation.

It is this network which provides the DAAD with a comprehensive view of the political, economic, social and higher-educational circumstances in each respective country. Thanks to this network, the DAAD is able to gain expertise for developing suitable programmes and ensuring that funding is put to the best possible use on location. Furthermore, the regional offices and numerous information centres and information points offer academic advice to students and researchers around the world who are interested in studying abroad or becoming better acquainted with the German research sector. 

Exchange promotes understanding between countries and individuals and helps secure the peace. New scientific findings enable us to meet global challenges. Cooperation contributes to political and social progress. The DAAD stimulates internationalisation and global responsibility. It acts as an independent intermediary between various partners and their interests. The real motors of change, however, are students and researchers who cross borders every day through their work, and the institutions of higher education which support them in their commitment.