About the MIDE Programme

The Master in International and Development Economics (MIDE) at HTW Berlin equips graduates with analytical tools and applied skills to address real-world development challenges. The curriculum spans micro/macroeconomics, econometrics, project appraisal, trade and finance in development, and policy design, while emphasizing practical work and an industry-relevant thesis.

Designed primarily for candidates from developing and transition economies, MIDE welcomes applicants with bachelor’s degrees in economics, business/management, or social sciences with a significant economics component. Graduates pursue roles in international organizations, public policy, NGOs, impact finance, and consulting.

Eligibility Requirements (DAAD MIDE — 2025 Cycle)

To be competitive for the DAAD EPOS scholarship at MIDE, applicants typically must:

• Citizenship: Come from a DAAD-eligible developing country.
• Academic background: Hold a first university degree equivalent to 180 ECTS (usually a Bachelor’s) with a solid economics foundation (e.g., 15 ECTS in Economics or ~3 economics modules).
• Professional Experience: Have at least two years of relevant full-time work experience after graduation; your first degree should typically have been completed within the last six years at the time of application.
• English proficiency: Provide official proof (e.g., IELTS/TOEFL) unless you qualify for a waiver (for example, prior degree fully taught and examined in English with official confirmation).
• Alignment: Demonstrate a clear link between your career goals, development impact, and the MIDE curriculum.

Exact criteria and country lists are maintained by DAAD and HTW Berlin. Always review current admissions and scholarship pages before applying.

Required Documents (Typical Set)

• Motivation letter (max 2 pages), dated and signed — explain your development focus, professional journey, and MIDE fit.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) in Europass format, dated and signed.
• Degree certificate(s) and transcript(s) with CGPA; attach official English or German translations as needed.
• Grading scale explanation (often part of your transcript or Diploma Supplement).
• Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS or waiver letter with official proof of English-medium instruction).
• Secondary school leaving certificate indicating date of graduation.
• Passport copy (bio page).
• Work experience proof (reference letters, contracts, or HR statements aligning with DAAD’s 2-year requirement).

Label files clearly (e.g., Surname_Firstname_Transcript.pdf) and keep PDFs under the portal’s size limits.

How to Apply — Step by Step

1. Confirm Eligibility: Check both HTW Berlin MIDE entry requirements and DAAD EPOS criteria (citizenship, degree, experience, language).
2. Prepare Your Documents: Gather transcripts, certificates, CV (Europass), motivation letter, proof of English, evidence of work experience, passport, and secondary school certificate.
3. Draft a Focused Motivation Letter: Show your development problem focus, how MIDE’s modules/skills help you solve it, and how you’ll apply these skills at home.
4. Complete the MIDE Application: Use the programme’s online form (available on the official MIDE site) and upload all documents before the deadline.
5. Select DAAD EPOS Funding: Where applicable in the application, indicate that you’re applying for DAAD EPOS (MIDE) and attach any specific DAAD forms requested for the cycle.
6. Submit Before August 31, 2025: Aim to file two weeks early to resolve any portal or document issues.
7. Track Your Email: Respond promptly to any requests for clarifications, missing files, or interview scheduling.
8. If Selected: Follow instructions to accept the offer, complete DAAD’s formalities, and begin visa procedures.

The specific online application URL for MIDE is updated by HTW Berlin each cycle; visit the official site and search for “MIDE HTW Berlin” to access the current application form and instructions.

How to Strengthen Your Application

• Be impact-specific: Identify a development challenge in your home country and show exactly how MIDE will equip you to address it.
• Quantify your work: In your CV and motivation letter, add metrics (e.g., “evaluated 12 SME loans/month,” “co-authored policy brief reaching 5,000 readers”).
• Show economics depth: Highlight relevant modules (micro, macro, econometrics, development economics) and your performance in them.
• Leadership & outreach: Note volunteer or professional engagements that demonstrate initiative and public impact.
• Document consistency: Ensure name, dates, job titles, and qualifications match across all forms and letters.
• Language planning: If seeking a test waiver, upload official proof of English-medium instruction; otherwise, target scores comfortably above minimums.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1) Is the MIDE scholarship fully funded?

Yes. Under the DAAD EPOS scheme, eligible MIDE candidates receive a monthly stipend, insurance contributions, a travel allowance, and potential add-ons (rent and family subsidies). Tuition-related support follows DAAD rules. Final details are in your award letter.

2) Do I need IELTS/TOEFL?

English proof is required unless you qualify for a waiver (for instance, a prior degree fully taught and examined in English with official institutional confirmation). Check the current admissions page for accepted proofs and minimums.

3) What counts as the required two years of experience?

Generally, full-time, post-bachelor’s, relevant professional experience. DAAD does not typically count volunteer work toward this minimum. Provide employment letters stating roles, responsibilities, dates, and full-time status.

4) I graduated more than six years ago. Can I still apply?

The EPOS track prioritizes applicants who completed their first degree within roughly the last six years. If you are outside this window, consult the programme directly to explore options or alternative funding.

5) Is there an age limit?

DAAD emphasizes recency of degree and professional experience rather than a strict age cap, but always verify current rules on DAAD’s official site.

6) Can my family accompany me?

Yes, but you must plan finances carefully. Under defined circumstances, DAAD may provide allowances for accompanying family members. Consult DAAD guidelines and the German embassy for visa rules.