Want to leave Cuba? Germany offers way out via higher education

Germany’s embassy in Havana sparked interest on Friday with a social media post highlighting new “options” for Cubans eager to leave the island, especially amid worsening travel restrictions and an ongoing national crisis.

The embassy’s message emphasized educational programs and scholarships available to Cuban citizens who meet eligibility requirements.

With a reputation for high quality of life and academic excellence, Germany offers access to more than 400 institutions of higher education, including universities, technical schools, and arts academies.

The embassy noted that students can choose between traditional academic paths and more practical training options.

Germany is “not only an excellent academic destination,” the post said, but also “a gateway to cultural and professional experiences.”

The embassy encouraged Cubans to explore programs offered through the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the world’s largest organization for international student and researcher exchanges. DAAD has supported cooperation between Cuba and Germany for over 30 years.

Earlier this year, DAAD launched a series of virtual advisory sessions targeting Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Central America to present available scholarships and current calls for applications.

In Cuba, interested applicants can visit the DAAD office at the Faculty of Foreign Languages at the University of Havana, where staff offer guidance on scholarships and academic exchanges.

Applicants are advised to carefully review each program’s requirements and become familiar with the DAAD’s online portal, where all applications must be submitted.