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PhD students

Here you find a  selection of funding programmes  for international PhD students by various funding organisations. For more funding opportunities please search our  funding databases .

Selection of funding programmes (alphabetical order):

Collaborative Research Centres

Collaborative Research Centres offer PhD students opportunities to pursue an outstanding research programme that crosses disciplinary, institutional, departmental and faculty boundaries.

DLR-DAAD Research Fellowships

Outstanding PhD students can complete a doctorate in the fields of space, aeronautics, energy, transport, digitalisation and security at an institute of the German Aerospace Center (DLR).

ERA Fellowships – Green Hydrogen

This programme provides funding for a research project or continuing academic training in the field of GH2.

Green Talents

The winners of this competition are invited to visit leading German institutions of environmental and sustainability research. Furthermore, Green Talents awardees can complete a research stay at an institution of their choice.

Individual Doctoral Projects at Fraunhofer Institutes

PhD students can complete a doctorate while working on exciting projects in cutting-edge areas of technology involving state-of-the-art equipment at a Fraunhofer institute.

Individual Doctoral Projects at Leibniz Institutes

PhD students can complete a doctorate while working in an excellent interdisciplinary research environment at a Leibniz institute.

Individual Doctoral Projects at Max Planck Institutes

PhD students can complete doctoral projects within the scope of research work conducted at a Max Planck institute.

International Max Planck Research Schools

PhD students can complete a doctorate in a structured programme offering excellent research conditions at one of the 68 International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS).

International Visiting Researchers at Max Planck Institutes

International researchers can conduct independent research at a Max Planck institute. The programme aims to strengthen cooperation and promote networking between Max Planck institutes and their international partners.

Leibniz Graduate Schools and Leibniz ScienceCampi

PhD students will find ideal conditions for completing a doctorate in a structured doctoral programme that can be pursued at either a Leibniz institute or a partner university.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks

PhD students receive structured doctoral training within these networks, which are formed jointly by different European institutions.

Max Planck Schools

The Max Planck Schools are a joint graduate programme run by German universities and research organisations. They offer ambitious bachelor’s and master’s graduates excellent conditions within a unique scientific network, and provide structured and fully funded PhD programmes in three interdisciplinary research fields: cognition, matter to life and photonics.

Munich Aerospace: PhD Scholarships

Munich Aerospace PhD scholarships allow talented young scientists to focus exclusively on the research work at hand and on attaining a timely doctoral degree.

PhD Fellowships

The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds awards PhD Fellowships to outstanding early career researchers who wish to carry out an ambitious scientific PhD project in basic biomedical research at an internationally leading laboratory.

Research Grants – Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees/Cotutelle

The aim of this programme is to support doctoral degrees at the student’s home university with integrated research phases in Germany.

Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany

International PhD students can realise a doctoral project (individually or in a structured programme) at a state or state-recognised German university or non-university research institution.

Research Grants – One-Year Grants

International doctoral candidates can carry out research primarily as part of a doctoral project at a state or state-recognised university or non-university research institution in Germany.

Research Training Groups

Research Training Groups are set up by universities and pursue a focused research programme. They offer a structured PhD programme relating to an innovative, peer-reviewed research topic.

RISE Professional

This programme enables students in the fields of natural sciences, engineering or computer science from North America, the United Kingdom or Ireland to gain serious practical experience in a German company or research institution with strong industry ties.

Travel Grants

The Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds (BIF) awards travel grants to PhD students and postdoctoral researchers from all over the world.

More information:

Search funding databases.

More funding programmes are available for international researchers. For more information you can either search the funding databases or go straight to the websites of the funding organisations.

We have 54 PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Germany

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PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Germany

Doctoral research associate (eu-forscher*in. salary level e 13 tv-l, 100%), phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

PhD positions at the International Max Planck Research School for Living Matter

Funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

Germany PhD Programme

A German PhD usually takes 3-4 years. Traditional programmes focus on independent research, but more structured PhDs involve additional training units (worth 180-240 ECTS credits) as well as placement opportunities. Both options require you to produce a thesis and present it for examination. Many programmes are delivered in English.

Max Planck Research Programme

Max Planck Research Programmes are structured PhD opportunities set up by the Max Planck Society, an independent non-profit German research organisation. Max Planck Institutes and universities collaborate to offer interdisciplinary and international PhD opportunities providing high standards of training and support as well as generous funding.

Doctoral Researcher (m/f/div) in Natural Product Discovery

Fully funded phd positions in life sciences - 2025 winter recruitment, phd position “machine learning of multi-species microbial consortia representations”, phd position in food web models: development of plankton sub-units in food web models of the north sea (m/f/d), phd student (m/f/d), phd student position in cellular immunology, phd positions (f/m/x) in data science, 16 phd positions in msca/ukri doctoral network “scala - spatial communication and ageing across languages”, phd student (f/m/d) in molecular cell biology/virology in göttingen and bordeaux, doctoral research associates (eu-forscher*in, salary level e 13 tv-l, 100%), development of spectroscopic methods for the investigation of chiral ligands, doctoral research associate - eu msca fellow.

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• Study for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding & Opportunities
• International

When considering a  PhD in Germany , you’ll encounter a diverse and globally recognised academic environment rich in opportunities for research and academic growth. To apply, you’ll typically need a Master’s degree or equivalent , and language requirements vary by program. Germany offers internationally-oriented  structured PhD programs , which last three years and include compulsory units for ECTS credits. You’ll work closely with a PhD supervisor and research training group. As an international candidate, you’ll find various  scholarships and grants  to support your studies. With tuition fees waived at  public universities  and diverse PhD programs often taught in English, Germany provides an ideal destination to study abroad.

Key Takeaways

• Applying for a PhD in Germany requires a minimum of eight semesters of academic study, usually a Master’s degree or equivalent.
• Language prerequisites for PhD programs in Germany vary, but many are taught in English, especially structured programs.
• Financial support options include DAAD grants, stipendiums, and research positions at universities, which cover living expenses and provide income.
• Structured PhD programs in Germany last typically three years and involve compulsory units for ECTS credits.
• International students without a Master’s degree may be admitted with a Bachelor’s degree in exceptional cases.

Why Undertake a PhD in Germany?

Germany offers many compelling reasons to pursue a PhD:

• High-quality research and education : German universities and research institutions have an outstanding reputation globally, providing access to cutting-edge research facilities and expertise across various disciplines.
• No tuition fees : Most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees for PhD students, regardless of nationality, making it an affordable option for international students.
• Excellent funding opportunities : There are numerous scholarships and funding programs available for PhD students in Germany. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) alone supports over 4,000 international doctoral students annually.
• Strong industry connections : Germany has a robust research ecosystem with close ties between academia and industry. Many PhD programs offer collaborations with companies, providing valuable experience and potential career opportunities.
• International environment : German universities welcome international researchers, creating a diverse and multicultural academic community. PhD theses and dissertations can often be written in English.
• Career prospects : A German PhD is highly respected globally and can lead to excellent career opportunities in academia, international research institutions, or industry. Many PhD graduates find employment in Germany’s thriving industrial sector, making it a favourable place to work in Germany post-study.
• Work-life balance : PhD students in Germany typically receive employment contracts with benefits such as health insurance, pension contributions, and vacation days.
• Research freedom : Germany values academic freedom highly, with constitutional protection for research and scientific pursuits.
• European mobility : As a PhD student in Germany, you can easily travel to other European Union countries for research or study purposes.
• Cultural experience : Germany offers a rich cultural landscape, high quality of life, and relatively moderate living costs compared to other developed countries.

In short, Germany provides an ideal environment for pursuing a PhD, combining academic excellence, affordability, strong funding support, and promising career prospects in both academia and industry.

What is it like to study and live in Germany as a research student?

Academic environment.

The research culture in Germany places a strong emphasis on independent research and critical thinking, with high expectations for original contributions to your field. Students regularly participate in seminars and colloquia to present and discuss their ongoing research. Supervision tends to be less structured than in some other countries, with regular meetings with supervisors but an expectation that students will take significant initiative in their work. Being part of a research group often offers additional opportunities for collaboration.

German universities are well-equipped with extensive digital resources and state-of-the-art laboratories. Students also have numerous opportunities to attend and present at international conferences. While many PhD programs, especially in STEM fields, are conducted in English, learning German can greatly enhance your overall experience and career prospects.

Day-to-Day Life

Germany is known for valuing a healthy work-life balance. PhD students typically work 38-40 hours per week and enjoy generous vacation time, usually around 30 days per year. Most PhD students live in shared apartments (WGs) or student dormitories, with rent in major cities ranging from €300 to €800 per month. The country boasts excellent public transportation systems, and many students use bicycles for daily commuting. Often, a student ID includes a public transport ticket for the local area.

The social life for students in Germany is vibrant, with active student communities organising regular events and activities. There are numerous opportunities to join sports clubs, cultural groups, and student organisations, along with international student networks that offer support and socialising opportunities.

Financial Aspects

Many PhD positions in Germany are funded, providing a salary rather than requiring tuition payments. Typical monthly salaries range from €1,500 to €2,500 before taxes. Additional funding opportunities are available through scholarships and research grants. Average monthly expenses, including rent, range from €850 to €1,000, and health insurance, which is mandatory, costs around €80 to €100 per month. Students can also take advantage of various discounts for cultural activities and museums.

Support Services

German universities offer robust support services for abroad students. International offices assist with visa processes, accommodation, and integration, providing orientation programs and language courses. Career services offer guidance on job searching and career development, organising career fairs and networking events. Mental health support and counseling services are also available, ensuring access to quality healthcare through the German health insurance system.

Challenges and Opportunities

While navigating German bureaucracy can be challenging, patience and attention to detail can help manage administrative processes. Initial culture shock is common but typically subsides over time, offering the opportunity to experience German culture and traditions firsthand. Building an international network of researchers and professionals is a significant benefit, with potential collaborations with industry partners. The strong job market for PhD graduates, especially in STEM fields, is an added advantage, and the option to stay in Germany for job searching after graduation (with an 18-month visa extension) provides further opportunities.

The Two Paths to a PhD in Germany

In Germany, doctoral candidates can choose between Individual Doctorates and Structured PhD Programs. The Individual Doctorate remains the most common path, chosen by over 75% of doctoral students, while Structured PhD Programs are gaining popularity, especially among international students, with about 25% opting for this route.

Individual Doctorates: Flexibility and Independence

Supervision and Structure : Individual Doctorates are characterised by their flexibility and self-directed nature. Candidates are supervised by a single professor, known as the Doktorvater or Doktormutter, and the research process is highly flexible. This approach demands a high degree of personal initiative and responsibility, with no fixed curriculum or mandatory coursework.

Research Focus and Duration : In this model, candidates often propose their own research topics, enjoying greater freedom in choosing their research direction and methodology. The duration of an Individual Doctorate typically spans 5-6 years, though there’s no strict timeframe as it depends on individual progress and the specific research project.

Funding and Employment : Individual Doctorate candidates often work as part-time research associates at universities. However, they may need to secure their own funding or scholarships, which requires proactive effort on the part of the doctoral student.

Structured PhD Programs: Guidance and Collaborative Learning

Supervision and Structure : Structured PhD Programs offer a more defined approach to doctoral studies. Candidates are supervised by a team of advisors and follow a predefined curriculum. This model includes regular progress checks, guidance, and mandatory coursework, seminars, and colloquia.

Research Focus and Duration : Research topics in Structured PhD Programs often align with existing program themes or research groups, and candidates may be part of larger research projects or collaborations. These programs are usually completed in 3-4 years, following a more defined timeline due to their structured nature.

Funding and Additional Benefits : Structured PhD Programs often come with funding or stipends and may offer more opportunities for paid doctoral positions. They also provide training in academic and scientific methods, as well as opportunities to develop soft skills such as presentation techniques.

Comparing the Two Approaches

International Orientation : While Individual Doctorates can be conducted in German or other languages depending on the field and supervisor, Structured PhD Programs often have a strong international orientation and frequently use English as the primary language.

Networking and Collaboration : Structured PhD Programs offer extensive opportunities to broaden research networks and encourage collaboration with peers and interdisciplinary work. In contrast, networking in Individual Doctorates depends largely on individual initiative, with fewer built-in opportunities for peer collaboration.

Entry Requirements for undertaking a PhD in Germany

The entry requirements for undertaking a PhD in Germany are generally similar for both home and international students, with some additional steps for international applicants.

Here are the specific requirements:

General Requirements for All Applicants

• A master’s degree or equivalent (e.g., German Staatsexamen) in a relevant field
• Strong academic record, typically with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
• Research Proposal : A detailed outline of your intended research topic , objectives, methodology, and significance
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) : Highlighting academic achievements, research experience, publications, and relevant qualifications
• Statement of Purpose : Explaining your motivation for pursuing a PhD , academic goals, and how the program aligns with your objectives
• Academic References : Letters of recommendation or contact information for professors/advisors who can attest to your academic abilities
• Master’s Thesis : A copy of your master’s thesis or equivalent research work
• For German-taught programs: TestDaF or DSH certificates
• For English-taught programs: TOEFL or IELTS scores
• Interview : Many programs include an interview stage

Additional Requirements for International Students

• Qualification Recognition : Ensure your foreign degree is recognised in Germany. You may need to submit your credentials to uni-assist for evaluation
• Visa Application : Apply for a student visa at the German embassy in your home country
• Health Insurance : Obtain valid health insurance coverage for Germany
• Residence Permit : Apply for a residence permit for study upon arrival in Germany

Application process for applying to a PhD in Germany

The application process for a PhD degree in Germany can vary depending on whether you’re pursuing an individual doctorate or a structured PhD program, and whether you’re a home or international student.

Here are the key steps and requirements:

General Application Process

• Choose your path : Decide between an individual doctorate (traditional route) or a structured PhD program.
• A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field
• Strong academic record (typically a GPA of 3.0 or higher)
• Proficiency in English and/or German, depending on the program
• For individual doctorates, contact potential supervisors directly
• For structured programs, search for openings at universities or research institutions
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Copy of your master’s degree certificate
• Master’s thesis (or a copy)
• Research proposal
• Statement of purpose
• Academic references
• Language proficiency certificates (e.g., TestDaF, DSH for German; TOEFL, IELTS for English)
• Follow the specific guidelines of the university or program
• Applications may be submitted online or by post
• Many programs, especially structured ones, include an interview stage
• This may be in person or via video conference

Considerations for International Students

International students face some additional steps and requirements:

• Qualification recognition : Ensure your foreign degree is recognised in Germany. You may need to submit your credentials to uni-assist for evaluation.
• Provide proof of German proficiency (TestDaF or DSH) for German-taught programs
• For English-taught programs, submit TOEFL or IELTS scores
• Apply for a student visa at the German embassy in your home country
• You’ll need an admission letter from a German university
• Health insurance : Obtain valid health insurance coverage for Germany
• Residence permit : Apply for a residence permit for study purposes upon arrival in Germany. This typically lasts for two years and is extendable.

Application Process for Structured PhD Programs

Structured programs often have a more formalised application process:

• Check for specific application deadlines, which may occur once or twice a year
• Submit initial application materials online
• Visits to the institution
• Meetings with potential supervisors and current students
• A short presentation of your previous research
• A panel interview

Application Process for Individual Doctorates

For individual doctorates, the process is more flexible:

• Identify a potential supervisor whose research aligns with your interests
• Contact the professor directly with a brief inquiry
• If the professor expresses interest, submit a full application including your research proposal
• The professor may invite you for an interview or further discussion
• If accepted, you’ll need to formally enroll at the university

Remember that the specific requirements and processes can vary between universities and programs. Always check the official website of the institution you’re applying to for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Typical Cost of a PhD in Germany

The costs of pursuing a PhD in Germany are generally similar for both home and international students, with a few key differences:

Tuition Fees

• Most public universities in Germany charge no tuition fees for PhD students, regardless of nationality
• There is a small semester contribution (administrative fee) of up to €300 per semester for all students, which typically covers student services and public transport

Living Costs

• The average annual living costs in Germany range from €10,200 to €12,000
• This includes rent, food, health insurance, and other daily expenses
• Costs can be higher in major cities like Munich or Berlin

Breakdown of Monthly Expenses (approximate)

• Rent: €280-€400 (shared flat or student residence)
• Health insurance: €80-€100
• Public transport: Often included in semester contribution
• Other expenses (phone, internet, leisure): €100-€200

Visa for International Students

• Non-EU students must prove they have access to about €11,208 per year (€934 per month) to cover living costs as part of their visa application.
• Visa application fee: approximately €75

Health Insurance

• Mandatory for all students, including PhD candidates
• Costs around €80-€100 per month
• EU students may be covered by their home country’s insurance through agreements

Additional Costs

• Research-related expenses (e.g., conference attendance, materials) are often covered by the research group or university
• Language courses (if needed): €200-€500 per course

In short, the main costs for PhD students in Germany are living expenses, as tuition is generally free. The overall experience is affordable compared to many other countries, especially considering the lack of tuition fees. International students should factor in additional costs for visa applications and potentially language courses. However, with many funded positions available, pursuing a PhD in Germany can be financially viable for both home and international students.

Funding Sources for PhD students in Germany

Many PhD positions in Germany are funded, offering a salary (of typically €1,500-€2,500 per month before taxes) rather than requiring payment of fees.

The main funding sources and opportunities for PhD students in Germany include:

• Doctoral Programmes in Germany: Supports international PhD students to complete their doctoral degree at a German university or research institution. Provides monthly payments of 1,300 euros, health insurance, travel allowance, and annual research allowance.
• One-Year Grants: For international doctoral candidates to carry out research as part of a doctoral project for up to one year.
• Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees/Cotutelle: Supports doctoral degrees at the student’s home university with integrated research phases in Germany.
• Research Training Groups: Established by universities to promote early career researchers. Funded for up to 9 years, providing structured training and qualification programs.
• Collaborative Research Centres: Offer opportunities for PhD students to pursue research across disciplines and institutions.
• Individual Doctoral Projects at Max Planck Institutes
• International Max Planck Research Schools ( IMPRS ): Structured PhD programs at 68 locations
• Max Planck Schools: Joint graduate programs in specific interdisciplinary fields
• Individual Doctoral Projects at Leibniz Institutes
• Leibniz Graduate Schools and Leibniz ScienceCampi: Structured doctoral programs
• Individual Doctoral Projects at Fraunhofer Institutes: Opportunity to complete a doctorate while working on cutting-edge technology projects
• DLR-DAAD Research Fellowships: For PhD students in fields like space, aeronautics, energy, and transport
• PhD Fellowships: For early career researchers in basic biomedical research
• Travel Grants: For PhD students and postdoctoral researchers
• Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Networks: Structured doctoral training within European institution networks
• ERA Fellowships – Green Hydrogen: Funding for research projects in green hydrogen
• Green Talents: Competition winners can complete a research stay at a German institution
• Munich Aerospace PhD Scholarships: For research in aerospace-related fields
• Many PhD positions are offered directly by universities and research institutes, often tied to specific research projects or programs
• These typically provide a salary (often around 1,500-2,500 euros per month before taxes) rather than requiring payment of fees

Top Universities in Germany for PhD study

As of 2024, the top universities in Germany for PhD study in STEM subjects include:

Technical University of Munich (TUM)

• Ranked as the best university in Germany for engineering and technology
• Offers structured PhD programs through the TUM Graduate School
• Known for excellence in research and strong industry connections
• Provides interdisciplinary training and professional skills development for doctoral candidates

Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin)

• Ranked 2nd in Germany for engineering and technology
• Offers doctorates across various STEM fields through its Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
• Provides structured support for international doctoral candidates
• Known for interdisciplinary research and collaboration

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)

• Ranked 3rd in Germany for engineering and technology
• Strong focus on energy, mobility, and information technologies
• Offers both individual and structured doctoral programs
• Emphasises international collaboration and industry partnerships

RWTH Aachen University

• Ranked 4th in Germany for engineering and technology
• Considers doctoral studies as the first part of professional practice, with an application-oriented focus
• Offers both individual doctorates and structured PhD programs
• Strong emphasis on industry partnerships and applied research

Technical University of Dresden

• Ranked 5th in Germany for engineering and technology
• Known for its research in microelectronics, materials science, and bioengineering
• Offers structured PhD programs and graduate schools
• Strong focus on interdisciplinary research and innovation

When choosing a university for PhD study, prospective students should consider factors such as:

• Specific research areas and expertise of potential supervisors
• Availability of funding or paid positions (many PhD students in Germany work as research assistants)
• Language requirements (some programs require German proficiency, while others are conducted in English)
• Opportunities for international collaboration and research stays abroad
• Post-graduation career prospects and industry connections

Prospective PhD candidates should thoroughly research potential supervisors and reach out to them directly to discuss research opportunities before applying to a program.

Your journey to  PhD study  in Germany awaits. With its exceptional research landscape, structured programs taught in English, and excellent  funding opportunities , Germany offers a unique experience for international students.

Enjoy the benefits of no tuition fees, low living costs, and a safe, culturally rich environment.

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• Scholarships , Study Abroad

Top 10 PhD Scholarships in Germany for 2024-2025

• Nomination-based award (up to 3 per year)
• Non-European PhD and Postdoctoral researchers
• Significant contributions to applied research
• Internationally recognized achievements with lasting impact
• €45,000 financial reward
• Networking opportunities
• Research collaboration possibilities
• Invitations to prestigious events
• Targets: Graduates, PhD students, and Postdocs
• Funding for Study visits, research visits, internships
• Research Grants (1 year): For PhD students from most countries.
• Master’s Scholarships: Primarily for students from industrialized nations.
• Hilde Domin Programme: For students at risk of educational denial in their home country (nomination required).
• Sur-place and Third Country Programs: Funding for graduate, PhD, or postdoctoral studies in your home country/region.
• Visit the DAAD scholarship database .
• Find the program you’re interested in and pay close attention to deadlines.
• The database will link you to the application portal.
• Applications are reviewed by independent committees based on subject-related criteria.
• Benefits of these fully funded PhD scholarships in Germany include:
• Monthly stipend (€934 for graduates, €1,200 for PhD students).
• Flat-rate travel allowance.
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
• One-off research allowance
• Family benefits
• Language course funding

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship for PhD

• Eligible Nationalities: Not available for students from Western Europe
• Applicants with substantial academic achievements
• Active involvement in social and political issues
• Commitment to the principles of social democracy
• All academic subjects
• Public or state-approved universities and universities of applied sciences (FH)
• Postgraduate programs (PhD)
• Must be from Africa, Asia, Latin America, or Eastern Europe
• Already enrolled in a German university or have a PhD supervisor
• Living in Germany before applying
• Proof of German language proficiency (C1 level)
• Proof of initial academic achievements (except Master’s students)
• Monthly stipend: €650 (primary) or €1,000 (graduate)
• Family allowance (€276, if applicable)
• Healthcare cost reimbursement
• Regular participation in FES seminars and activities
• Above-average academic performance
• Continued social and political engagement
• Submit semester reports on academic progress and social involvement
• Diploma/Magister/State Exam: by 6th semester
• Bachelor/Undergraduate: 3 semesters before the standard program end
• Master/Postgraduate: by 1st semester
• Online application (in German)
• Interview with FES lecturer
• Interview with FES scholarship committee member
• Committee discussion and decision
• Written notification of the outcome
• Summer Selection: May 15 (2024) – No Winter Selection in 2024/25.
• Following Selection: April 24 (2025)
• Usual Schedule (from Winter Selection 2025/26 onwards): May 15 and December 15 deadlines.
• Application Review: 6 weeks after the deadline.
• Interview preparation: Provide contact details for 2 referees
• Present research project and scientific paper.
• Evaluated on academic achievements, research experience, and passion for cancer research.
• Individual Interviews with Supervisors (chosen from 5 preferred projects).
• On-site Visit (July 23-25): Explore research environments, meet supervisors, and attend social events.
• Apply through the Online Application System (opens 6-8 weeks before the deadline).
• Academic certificates (electronic copies, PDF under 5MB).
• English language certificate.
• Statement of motivation.
• Letters of recommendation (submitted by referees by application deadline).
• Not invited for interview: Create a new account and re-submit documents.
• Invited for interview (but not offered position): Contact supervisors directly.
• Already affiliated with DKFZ: Indicate affiliation and details in the application.
• Secured third-party funding: Apply if the Ph.D. started after the previous selection deadline and state affiliation in the application.
• February 15
• Completed application form (available for download)
• Curriculum vitae and list of publications (optional, no photos)
• D. thesis outline (max 15,000 characters)
• D. thesis structure
• Detailed timetable for your stay at the IEG
• University transcripts and proof of language competence
• Email to: [email address removed]
• Subject: Fellowship Application
• Language: English or German (proficiency in English required)
• Applicant’s academic qualifications
• D. project details (topic, goal, current state)
• Planned work at the IEG (timeline and schedule)
• Research project (question, method, results, representation)
• The current state of research on the topic
• Monthly stipend: €1,350 (used exclusively for the research project at IEG)
• Family allowance may be available for accompanying partners with low incomes and children. Indicate on your application.

• International graduates and doctoral students
• Applicants with a strong academic background
• Active social and political engagement
• Proficiency in German (B2 Level or DSH2 minimum)
• Gather information and documents (begins 6 weeks before deadlines)
• Register for the online portal
• Complete the application form
• Upload required documents
• Submit your application by the deadline (March 1 or September 1)
• Fully funded PhD scholarships in Germany (up to 36 months): Supports doctoral research projects.
• Completion Scholarships (up to 6 months): Provides funding to finalize a PhD dissertation.
• Current PhD candidate at the University of Potsdam
• Supervisor affiliated with the University of Potsdam
• Monthly stipend: €1,500 (excluding family allowance)
• Part-time scholarships are considered in exceptional cases
• Scholarship start date: May 2024 or later
• It opens from January 17 up to March 3 every year.
• Review details and regulations on the Potsdam Graduate School website .
• Prepare a complete application package in a single PDF document.
• Apply via email to [email protected]
• Address application to Universität Potsdam, Geschäftsstelle der Vergabekommission für die Graduiertenförderung, Frau Nadine Mohaupt, Am Neuen Palais 10, 14469 Potsdam.
• Be a graduate student with a clear career path in one of Rotary’s focus areas.
• Demonstrate a commitment to community service and long-term, sustainable change.
• Possess strong leadership potential and a proven academic record.
• Have well-defined goals for using the scholarship to advance their field.
• Be committed to maintaining a connection with Rotary after the scholarship period.
• Reviewing the candidate’s experience, academic record, and career goals.
• Conducting interviews to assess leadership skills, commitment to service, and scholarship goals.
• Collaborating with a host Rotary club or district in the student’s study location.
• Applications for scholarships starting in August-October are due by June 30.
• All other applications are accepted on a rolling basis but should be submitted at least 3 months before the student’s departure date.
• Global Grants have a minimum budget of $30,000 with a maximum Rotary Foundation contribution of $400,000.
• Funds can come from various sources, including District Designated Funds, cash contributions, and directed gifts.
• Eligible expenses include tuition, fees, living expenses, travel, and language training.
• Ineligible expenses include personal travel, entertainment, and dependents’ expenses.

Top 14 Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students in 2023-2024

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I WILL BE GRADUATING IN MY MSC IN COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS, NEAR EAST UNIVERSITY, NORTH CYPRUS BY FEB 2025. I WANT TO APPLY FOR STUDENTSHIP SCHOLARSHIP IN (PHD, MANAGEMENT, KNOWLEDGE MANAGEMENT AND INNOVATION, PROJECT MANAGEMENT, OR INFORMANTION SYSTEM MSNSGEMENT. PLEASE I NEED INFORMATION ON WHEN IT WILL BE AVALIABLE 2025 ONLINE APPLICATION.

Thank you for reaching out, and congratulations on your upcoming graduation! Application dates for PhD studentships and scholarships often vary depending on the institution or funding body. Typically, online applications open between September and December for programs starting in the following academic year (e.g., September 2025). It’s advisable to start checking specific universities’ websites or scholarship portals as early as October 2024.

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PhD Scholarships

Key information in 5 steps, research projects in which fields of scholarship are eligible for support.

• Archaeology
• History of Art
• Historical Islamic Studies
• History of Science
• History of Law
• Prehistory and Early History

What preconditions must the applicant meet?

• Overall graduation grade (Masters, or for German State Examinations Sek. II): 1.5 or better (foreign graduation certificates will be assessed separately).
• The applicant must not have been older than 28 years of age at the point in time when s/he graduated and qualified to take part in a PhD programme.

If an applicant was aged 25 when graduating, then he or she can still apply to the Foundation for a Ph.D. scholarship when aged 35.

• This age limit shall be extended to take the following situations into account: night school, bringing up children, military service, work experience and other exceptional circumstances.

What is not eligible for support?

• PhD scholarships for a duration of less than 12 months
• Travel stipends for PhD candidates
• no college or tuition fees
• scholarship cannot be granted if the person is also receiving a salary or drawing a pension
• final scholarships (a grant that succeeds another grant exceeding 12 months and bestowed by a different party and/or the application for a scholarship not exceeding 12 months)

How and when can an application be submitted?

• Applications can only be made in digital form
• Applications must be in English or in German
• Scholarships are awarded independently of the applicant’s nationality or location
• The application can be submitted at any time (no deadline)

What proposals can be submitted?

• PhD- and/or research scholarships for the project participant(s)
• Only full-time scholarships are available (max. 5 hrs a week in other employment)
• if necessary monthly family grant
• if necessary monthly endowment for scholarships abroad
• support for Student assistant
• Material aid

Background to the PhD Scholarships

In line with one of the founder’s wishes, a special focus of the Gerda Henkel Foundation is support for up-and-coming scholars. Special attention is made when approving grants to enable qualified young researchers of both sexes to conduct scientific work for a limited period of time and in order to improve their academic training. As part of its Ph.D. programme, the Foundation seeks to promote highly-qualified new academic talent. Only those candidates are considered whose study achievements and exam performances show them to be especially gifted and whose Ph.D. theses can be expected to yield well above-average results. At present, each year about 50 scholarships are awarded.

Application

Type and scope to the scholarship

The funding period is up to two years. In justified cases, the scholarship period can be extended for up to 12 months if an extension application is made before the end of the second year of funding.

It is possible to apply for:

• basic scholarship sum

if appropriate:

• supplement for travel abroad (monthly endowment for stays of for weeks or more)
• family grant award (for children who have not yet turned 18 under presentation of the child’s birth certificate)

and if required:

• travel expenses
• material expenses

Application documents

From now on, it is only possible to apply electronically for the general research grants. The necessary application documents can be uploaded in the electronic application form.

The following documents must be included in an application for a PhD scholarship (in German or English):

• plus bibliography if necessary (in addition to the max. 8 pages)
• at least font size 11 and line spacing 1.5
• please choose a readable font, e.g. Arial 11 pt. or Times New Roman 12 pt.
• time schedule and working plan with information about the necessary travel to archives, libraries and museums or other destinations required for the completion of the dissertation (max. 2 pages)
• curriculum vitae in tabular form
• certificate(s) of the university degree qualifying for PhD studies (generally Master certificate; for direct doctorates: seminar attendance certificates; please do not send Bachelor certificates). Please send us copies, references do not have to be attested.
• the choice of the referees is up to the applicant
• the second report needs not be compiled by the person who later acts as second examiner for the Ph.D. thesis
• upload via the online recommendation form
• The letters of recommendation should be received promptly with the application; the application can only be discussed when both letters of recommendation are available.
• The Foundation does not contact the authors of the letters of recommendations; you as the applicant must ensure that the letters of recommendations are submitted (promptly).
• possibility to submit more than two letters of recommendation

Please note that the Gerda Henkel Foundation will not contact any referees and the applicants are responsible for requesting the letters of recommendation themselves.

Please do not send the following information:

• High School Leaving certificates
• internship certificates
• seminar grades (only required for direct PhDs)
• employment references

Please note the following information:

• Applications which are incomplete or too voluminous will not be given consideration. The same holds true for applications for which no expert opinion has been submitted.
• Incomplete applications will not be considered any more after the expiration of one year.
• Proof of enrollment does not need to be produced.
• We will acknowledge receipt of your application and we would ask you not to contact us by phone on this matter.

Please note the following application requirements:

• Example: If an applicant was aged 25 when graduating, then he or she can still apply to the Foundation for a Ph.D. scholarship when aged 35.
• It will not be possible to include the application in the selection process should there be no special reasons for graduation after the candidate turns 29.
• For an application to be considered in the selection process the overall master grade awarded must be at least 1.5 or above in Germany (comparable with grade A in other countries). For candidates with a foreign degree, a special examination for inclusion in the selection process will be performed in the Foundation's office. The final grade achieved in legal exams also will likewise be assessed separately.
• The Foundation will not grant scholarships for the completion of Ph.D. projects. A final scholarship is a grant that succeeds another grant exceeding 12 months and bestowed by a different party and/or the application for a scholarship not exceeding 12 months.

Please do not additionally send the documents by email or postal mail.

The simultaneous receipt of salary or retirement pension and a scholarship is not possible. The funding period for PhD scholarships of the foundation is up to two years. In justified cases, the scholarship period can be extended for up to 12 months if an extension application is made before the end of the second year of funding.

If the stipend holder becomes a parent during the period covered by the stipend and has an entitlement to maternity or parental leave, individual arrangements must be discussed with the Foundation’s administrative office. 

Applicable to new permits from 1 January 2024.

Monthly scholarship award: 1,920 euros

Foundation stipend holders working on Ph.D. or research projects with children, will receive a monthly family grant in addition to their scholarship. The family grant is awarded on presentation of the child’s birth certificate and disbursed for children who have not yet turned 18 .

•    for one child: EUR 480 •    each further child: EUR 120

Monthly endowment for scholarships abroad: 480 euros Travel aid: as required Material aid: as required

Applications for PhD scholarships are considered throughout the year. Recipients of PhD scholarships will be selected four times a year. The review and approval process of a complete application is generally completed within six months. Please note that the review and approval process does not begin until the two required letters of recommendation have also been received.

The Foundation’s bodies will meet and decide on the present application at the earliest date possible. We would ask you not to contact us by phone on this matter.

Form and letters of recommendation

Electronic application form for the foundation.

1. Please complete the application form in full.

2. The application form can be saved at any time. Using your own personal link, you can return to and edit the form for a period of ten days. However, after this period (10 Days), your data will be deleted from the server.

3. Once you have completed the form, you will receive a short summary, which needs to be confirmed in order to be sent to the Foundation electronically.

4. During the transmission process your data will be sent to the Foundation in electronic form. Confirmation of receipt will be sent to the e-mail address provided in the application.

Please follow these rules when uploading your application files:

• All documents need to be uploaded as pdf-files.         
• Please do not upload protected PDF documents.
• Please do not upload secured PDF documents.
• A single file may not exceed a file size of 6 MB each.
• You cannot upload more than one document per upload field.
• The application can only be sent, if all necessary documents are included.

Please note the following additional information:

• Your data will be stored by the Gerda Henkel Foundation for the purpose of processing your application and will not be passed on to third parties.
• The Gerda Henkel Foundation will be happy to provide you with information about the data that we have stored on your person at any time. If so required, personal data can be changed or deleted.
• This form may only be used to make an application to the Gerda Henkel Foundation. The Foundation reserves the right to delete application data without prior notification, if necessary.
• Application form

Online recommendation form: 

Letters of recommendation must be uploaded via the online recommendation form by their authors with a personal signature. Please do  not  additionally send the documents by email and/or postal mail.

• Online recommendation form

Publishing Aid

Publishing aid is currently only awarded to especially successful Gerda Henkel Foundation scholars. Please include the following documents:

• two-page summary of the academic merit and innovativeness of the monograph/collection
• cost calculation by the publishing house
• manuscript on which the calculations have been made (digital)
• copy of the (preliminary) PhD certificate

Applications can be submitted at any time.

Important note on submitting applications

Please take a look at the information provided in this section and under General References . We would of course be happy to assist you should you have any further questions.

Contact Person PhD Scholarships

Anna Kuschmann, M.A. Project Manager General Research and PhD Grants – PhD and Research Scholarships, Publishing Aid – kuschmann@gerda-henkel-stiftung.de

General Information for Applicants and Beneficiaries

Frequently asked questions, general questions regarding the application.

Does the Foundation provide funding for master students? No, the Foundation does not provide support for studies under PhD level.

Can I apply if my project belongs to another field than the academic disciplines cited on the website? No. But please have a look at the thematic requirements of the funding programmes “Democracy“ and "Lost Citiess", as well as the special programme "Forced Migration".

What shall I do if I’m not sure whether my subject is eligible for funding from the Foundation? Please send us a short project summary by email ( info@gerda-henkel-stiftung.de ). We will be in touch within a few days to let you know whether you can apply.

Are foreign academics allowed to apply for funding programmes? The funding activities concentrate basically on German and foreign academics in the fields of historical humanities. Candidates can apply regardless of their nationality and place of work.

In which languages does the Foundation correspond? German and English.

Should application documents and references be submitted in English or German? The Foundation accepts both, although German is preferred where possible.

Are there formal requirements on how the application documents should be compiled? The project description should not be longer than 8 pages. Documents should have at least font size 11 and line spacing 1.5. Please read carefully all instructions in the section general references .

Are there any substantial requirements for the structure or form of the description of the research project? No, there are no substantive requirements. Applicants for a research scholarship should make sure that in addition to the content presentation, information on the method, the state of research, the sources and research relevance are included in the description, especially if the transcript of the study is in the foreground.

Should the proposal include a detailed list of publications or is it enough to note the cited references in footnotes? Is an additional list of publications with for the project relevant references necessary? It is sufficient to note the references of the proposal in footnotes. A list of publications with for the project relevant references can but must not be submitted.

What should my working plan and schedule include? They should include detailed information about the work stages planned for the period of funding, including research trips and their planned duration.

Can I apply for financing for my own post instead of a research grant? No. The Foundation is not providing funding for posts at research institutions.

What do you require for travel and material expenses claims? We require a list of costs with each individual expense in as much detail as possible. Please have a look at the information provided under http://www.gerda-henkel-stiftung.de/calculation_travel-material-expenses .

Does the Foundation pay for childcare during the period for which a stipend is awarded? Foundation stipend holders working on Ph.D. or research projects receive a family grant on presentation of the child’s/children’s birth certificate(s). The grant is paid for children who have not yet turned 18.

What is the Foundation’s policy is a stipend holder becomes a parent during the period for which a stipend is awarded? The period of support for Foundation stipend holders working on Ph.D. or research projects can be extended by up to 12 months if the holder becomes a parent during the period covered by the stipend and has an entitlement to maternity or parental leave. Individual arrangements must be discussed with the Foundation’s administrative office.

Can anyone request funding for printing? Publishing aid can only be claimed for projects which are already receiving funding from the Gerda Henkel Foundation. However, not all projects will be awarded funding for printing as the current budget for publishing aid is extremely limited.

Does the Foundation sponsor individual journeys to participate in scientific conferences? At present travel expenses are only paid for larger research projects or PhD and research scholarships. Funding applications for independent trips to participate in conferences/congresses are in principle not considered.

Can I change anything in my electronic application form after having sent it to the Foundation? No, that is not possible. Please inform us about any differing information when sending us your application documents or fill out a new application form and let us know you have sent a new form in a short note or email.

What happens to my submission if it is incomplete? Incomplete submissions will not be considered and will be put back to the next selection round. Incomplete applications for PhD scholarships will not be considered any more after the expiration of one year.

Does the Foundation provide reasons for refusing applications? The Academic Committee’s deliberations are confidential so the Foundation does not provide detailed reasons for refusals.

General questions regarding the applications for scholarships

Can I continue to work during the time of my scholarship? No, the simultaneous receipt of salary and a scholarship is not possible.

Can I continue to draw a retirement pension during the time of my scholarship? No, the simultaneous receipt of a retirement pension and a scholarship is not possible.

In which case can I apply for an overseas bonus? Should a recipient of a scholarship leave the country of her/his principal residence and spend more than four weeks abroad for research purposes, the Foundation shall grant a flat-rate overseas bonus. This should be seen as an extension to the scholarship, intended to cover the extra costs of food and accommodation. The Foundation shall not cover any accommodation costs for that period if an overseas bonus has been granted.

Can I apply for funding of college or tuition fees? No, the Foundation does not cover college or tuition fees.

If I am given a doctoral grant, do I have to start my doctorate immediately? Doctorates must be started within twelve months of the grant being agreed.

Questions regarding letters of recommendation

Who can write letters of recommendation? Applicants are free to choose a relevant expert. The Foundation does not make recommendations in this regard.

What should be included in letters of recommendation or references and what form should they take? The Foundation has no specific requirements as far as references are concerned. Referees generally provide an assessment of the quality of the project and the applicant’s qualifications.

In what form should letters of recommendation be submitted? Letters of recommendation must be uploaded via the online recommendation form by their authors with a personal signature. Please do  not  additionally send the documents by email and/or postal mail.

Can authors send their letters of recommendation to the Foundation via email? Letters of recommendation can be uploaded via the online recommendation form . They must in all cases be signed by the author.

Should letters of recommendation be submitted in English or German? The Foundation accepts both, although German is preferred where possible.

Do you accept letters of recommendation from abroad? Yes.

Do you accept letters of recommendation from other subject areas? Yes.

Does the second letter of recommendation for an application for a phd scholarship have to be compiled by the person who later acts as second examiner for the Ph.D. thesis? No.

Specific questions regarding the PhD-Scholarships

Can doctoral students from overseas apply for a doctoral grant? Yes.

Can students write their doctorate overseas? Yes.

Can I apply for a doctorate grant if I have finished my undergraduate degree but not officially graduated? No, to make sure all applicants are treated equally, we do require a written confirmation of your degree results. The Foundation will however accept provisional attestation from the university showing individual grades and the overall grade.

Can I submit an application for doctoral funding if I have not yet been formally registered by the university or not yet had my place confirmed? Yes.

Which documents do I have to submit for funding if I have already started my doctorate? Please submit the same documents as for a standard doctorate grant.

Can I apply for funding for the completion of my doctorate ("final scholarship")? No, the Foundation will not grant scholarships for the final completion of Ph.D. projects. A final scholarship is either a grant that succeeds another grant exceeding 12 months and bestowed by a different party and/or the application for a scholarship not exceeding 12 months.

Can all applications for doctoral funding include an application for travel or material expenses? Yes, as long as the foreseen expenses are directly linked to the doctorate.

Which certifications should be submitted when I am applying for a PhD scholarship? Please send in certificate(s) of the university degree qualifying for PhD studies (or seminar attendance certificates for direct doctorates). Please send us copies, references do not have to be attested. Please do not send certificates of High School Leaving, Bachelor certificates, internships, seminar grades (only necessary for direct doctorates) and employment references.

Can I apply with a 1.5 grade or does the grade have to be better than 1.5? For an application to be considered in the selection process the overall master grade awarded must be at least 1.5 or above in Germany (comparable with grade A in other countries). We will check any applications with degrees obtained outside Germany before deciding whether to put them through into the next stage.

What does the Foundation mean by its age limit of 28? The age limit refers to obtaining a degree. If you were 25 when you obtained your master degree, you could apply for doctoral funding at the age of 35, for example. Exceptions will be made to take the following situations into account: night school, bringing up children, military or civil service, work experience and other exceptional circumstances. If there are no extenuating circumstances, applications from those older than 28 cannot be accepted.

Are there any interviews? Can I present my subject to the Foundation in person? No, decisions are based solely on the application submitted.

Can I ask when the Foundation’s quarterly committee meetings are held? No, the Foundation does not provide any information about when the committees meet to assess applications. Once all necessary documents have been submitted (incl. reference), you should expect to wait approximately six months for our decision.

Can I reapply if my application has already been refused? Yes, a second application is possible. However, all the documents must be submitted again.

Questions regarding grants in general

What should I do once I have received the letter of approval? Please let us know by postmail whether you accept the grant and the terms of appropriation. If you do accept, please also supply your current bank details and include when you wish payments to start. Please note that all credit transfers and standing orders are being switched over to the pan-European SEPA system. Instead of a bank sort code and account number, the Foundation requires the IBAN and BIC details. You will find the corresponding information on your account statement and possibly on your bank card.

What are my obligations if I accept the funding? You must inform the Foundation of any changes which have a bearing on the payment of the grant or the amount paid. Teaching positions and other employment must be agreed with the Foundation if they exceed an average of 5 hours a week.

Can I work during the grant period? Yes, as long as the employment does not exceed an average of five hours a week.

How should references be made to the Foundation in my work? We ask that the Foundation be mentioned in any publications that arise from the funded project. The Foundation should also be included in the imprint of any publications for which publishing aid was supplied. For other media, such as conference posters or flyers, please use the logo available on our website. Please also mention the Foundation at events and in any contact with journalists (e.g. via your university’s press office), including in any press releases.

Can the grant or parts thereof be used for other purposes? No. The grant is only to be used for the purposes detailed in the letter of approval.

Can grants be transferred to overseas accounts? Yes. Please supply your SWIFT/BIC code and IBAN. We would however prefer to make transfers to a German account.

Do I have to take out insurance if I am awarded a grant or does the Foundation cover those costs? As grant recipients are not technically employed by the Foundation, national insurance contributions are not paid. The Foundation recommends that all grant recipients take out medical insurance. No additional funding is available for these costs.

What kind of information about my bank account do I have to submit? Please note that all credit transfers and standing orders are being switched over to the pan-European SEPA system. Instead of a bank sort code and account number, the Foundation requires the IBAN and BIC details. You will find the corresponding information on your account statement and possibly on your bank card. Please send us these details or submit them with your next invoice.

Do original receipts have to be sent? Generally yes. Should third parties need the originals for billing purposes (e.g. university offices), please submit copies and ensure that the originals are held for at least ten years in case they need to be checked.

Will my family’s costs be reimbursed for research trips? No. These must be covered by the grant recipient.

General questions

What is the phone number for Henkel AG & Co. KgaA in Düsseldorf? +49 (0)211 7970

• general references

PhD Studies

Planning your phd, eligibility and application, german or english medium, living as a student, working in germany, get guidance.

With a long tradition of research and ground breaking discoveries, Germany is indeed a land of innovation and progress. Besides giving your ideas a research-based boost, Germany also offers promising career opportunities along with a vibrant social and cultural milieu. So like for many other international students, it can be the right place to pursue a doctoral degree for you too!

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Starting your doctoral studies is a big step in your academic life. Along with identifying your research area you also have to plan where and in which institute you want to pursue your PhD.

Where does research take place in Germany?

Contemplating pursuing a PhD in Germany?  There are a number of universities, research institutions and business houses that will welcome you. So getting an insight into the research landscape of the country is of paramount importance!

Research is extensively carried out by and through universities, research organisations and the industry. These three are famously known as the three pillars of research in Germany.

You can take a closer look at this on  Research in Germany .

Which universities should I look at for PhD?

There are various kinds of institutions of higher education in Germany. A majority of these belong to either of the following categories:

Universities and Universities of Technology (TU), are research-oriented and offer a wide variety of subjects. These are the only establishments that can award a PhD degree.

In case you are carrying out your PhD at a research organisation/ University of Applied Sciences, it will always be through a partner university/TU that you will get your degree. Therefore it is important that you fulfill the eligibility criteria of the university/TU as well.

Before you finalise a university or a research institution make sure to check out their websites to know what kind of research is already going on there.

Which is the best university in Germany?

There is no “best university”, neither in one subject and certainly not across all subjects.

DAAD India CHE Ranking

Germany offers a multidimensional ranking, considering various criteria that are important from a student’s perspective. For example, student and staff judgments on quality of teaching, atmosphere at the university, library and other equipment, student numbers, average study duration, number of graduations, third party funding etc. This way you get a detailed picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each university on university-ranking.de . Here you can find your programme by selecting a subject, a university or even a city in Germany!

As a researcher you should also take the research rankings  into consideration. The criteria for such rankings could be research infrastructure, citations, patents, publications and student reviews, to name a few.

If you have set your mind on a PhD in Germany, you can consider two approaches: the traditional approach i.e. individual doctorate and the structured doctoral programmes.

Individual doctoral studies involve identifying a supervisor ( Doktorvater / Doktormutter ) at a German university who is willing to guide your research. This system offers a lot of freedom, and calls for a great deal of personal initiative right from identifying a topic in your research field. This kind of doctorate takes about 3-5 years to complete.

Structured PhD programmes  are internationally oriented, conducted largely in English and are comparable to PhD programmes offered in English-speaking countries. Here supervision is carried out by several university teachers. These programmes lead to a PhD in about three years.

What if I want to do a part of my PhD research in Germany?

The research Grant: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle which is also famously known as DAAD Sandwich Scholarship lets you complete your PhD in two countries. The first country being your home country where you are registered as a doctoral student and the second country is but naturally Germany.

You are supervised at your home university as well as at the host institute in Germany. Your doctoral degree is awarded by the home institution. This is the well known “sandwich model”.

While generally as a Master degree holder you will have ticked off the first major requirement, it is always a good idea to check if the university’s requirements and your qualifications match. And then you can start with the application procedure.

Am I eligible to apply for a PhD?

In Germany, every university is autonomous. This means that every university/ study programme has its own set of criteria for admitting students. So please check the university website, and specifically the programme you are interested in. Here you will find the exact admission requirements.

However, some generalisation is  possible. As a Master degree holder from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal or Sri Lanka your degree is treated at par with a German Master degree. In some cases, further assessment of eligibility will be required. Do clarify the matter of eligibility with the university or the research organisation of your choice before you send in your application.

Some universities may ask for the proof of your English language proficiency in form of TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some universities may ask for good German language skills depending upon subject of your research. In such cases, your knowledge of German needs to be certified through examinations like the TestDaF  or DSH.

How do I go about applying for a PhD?

• PhD Germany   – A portal where German universities advertise openings for doctoral positions
• An interactive database of  Graduate Schools at German universities
• Research Training Groups  coordinated by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
• International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) Academicians from your country who have collaborations with German academicians or your seniors who might be carrying out research in Germany can be a great source of information too!
• Contact and convince a supervisor. Make sure that you approach a potential supervisor the right way and in good time – a brief and well-structured communication with an overview of your research proposal and relevant information about yourself is more likely to get you the right kind of response than a simple email stating that you are interested in doing a PhD!
• Communicate information about your background, academic performance and academic goals.
• Get a letter of acceptance from your supervisor.
• Identify a programme. Contact the selected university. This will be your most important source of information as far as exact details about eligibility, programme structure, fee, application procedure etc. are concerned.
• Check the application deadline for the programme chosen!
• Application forms and other relevant material can be downloaded from the respective university website.
• Send the application packet.
• Get a confirmation of admission.
• The Admission procedures vary for different universities and for different programmes.
• Check about these with the university of your choice or your supervisor.
• Make sure you have a valid passport!
• Apply for a student visa as soon as you have the admission letter, as the procedure can take 8 to 12 weeks. The German Embassy and the Consulates require proof of funding for the first year of studies. At this stage make sure if you need to get the APS certificate ( www.aps-india.de ) that some universities/host professors may insist upon. To find out where you should apply for a visa, visit the website of the Germany Embassy in your country.
• Apply for a place in a hostel. In some cases the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of the university will help you.
• Arrive in Germany at least a week before your course begins.
• Contact the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of your university for guidance.
• Step 6 Get your residence permit within the first three months of your stay in Germany from the Foreigners’ Registration Office ( Ausländeramt ).

Germany offers education in German as well as in English. Different subject fields can have different language requirements.

Can I do my PhD completely in English medium?

Germany offers close to 200 structured international programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction. These programmes are called International Programmes.

Few of these programmes may require students to have learnt/learn some German language during their PhD.

As you have already seen, Germany offers numerous PhD programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction and the language for your thesis. English is also accepted as a language of research and education in Germany.

However, some universities/ subject fields may expect you to have German language proficiency for your PhD.

As a student in Germany, your life will not be limited to the university campus. You will surely want to interact with people, travel through the country-side and make the best of your time there. This is where knowledge of German will present a great advantage!

Universities offer beginner and well as advanced level courses where you can learn German. You can also start learning the language while you are still in your home country at a  Goethe-Institut (Max Mueller Bhavan) / Goethe-Zentrum.

Do I require to learn German for DAAD scholarship?

To apply for the DAAD PhD scholarship knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. However, after getting the scholarship you will be expected to complete a DAAD sponsored German course. This will help you with your life Germany.

While in a foreign country being able to manage your finances on your own is very important. You would need to plan your budget by keeping your living expenses, travel costs and tuition fees if any in mind.

What kind of budget should I have in my mind?

Fees: As a PhD scholar in Germany, you are exempted from tuition fees. You will need to pay a semester contribution of around Euro 300, depending upon the university and the services or benefits provided.

Living costs : Apart from the tuition fees, if any,  you will require about EUR 934 per month for subsistence i.e. housing, food, clothing, study material and other expenses such as health insurance and leisure activities. The precise split up for this amount will be updated soon. The amounts can vary from city to city, and of course from lifestyle to lifestyle!

The following table shows the split up at the time of the last budget indicated in 2019.

Source: German Student Union (Deutsches Studentenwerk), 2019 

If you are participating in a structured doctoral programme and doing your doctorate at a graduate school, research centre or research training group, the issue of funding is usually resolved with you either working as a research assistant or receiving a scholarship of about EUR 1,000 per month.

If you are pursuing your doctorate on the basis of the traditional approach, you can apply for a job as a research assistant, if there is vacancy.

Working as a research/doctoral assistant involves collaboration in research/teaching and doing administrative work in addition to completing the dissertation. Non-university research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and also some companies offer doctoral candidates employment and / or fund their doctoral dissertations.

The DAAD offers the most extensive scholarship programme.  Also a number of foundations support international candidates approved for the doctoral process. A database of scholarships offered by various German organisations can be found at  www.funding-guide.de .

What is a DAAD PhD scholarship like and how can I apply for it?

If you are a well-motivated researcher with high-calibre this research grant supports your complete doctoral studies in Germany. In general the duration of your PhD should not exceed more than four years.

If you have already registered for PhD in your home country and would like to carry out a part of the research in Germany, you may consider applying for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle scholarship of the DAAD .

An independent selection committee consisting of specialist scientists reviews your applications, wherein your academic qualification, quality of your research project is checked along with your career prospects, motivation and extra curricular activities including your civic engagement.

If you want to do your full PhD in Germany DAAD PhD Scholarship would be more relevant for you. The application deadline is 20 October every year. This is for scholarship starting from October of the following year.

Here is a step-by-step guideline for your application process:

• Collect general information about the DAAD PhD scholarship.
• Thoroughly check the eligibility criteria.
• Attend information sessions or internet-based seminars (webinars) organised by the DAAD.
• Once you have the letter of acceptance from your supervisor/admission letter from your university, complete the application procedure as specified in the scholarship announcement.
• The application deadline typically falls in the month of October the current year for a PhD beginning in the next year.
• Shortlisted applicants from India will be invited for a personal interview around January-February. For Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka the procedure will be announced closer to the date of interviews.
• The final decision will be announced for applicants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka around mid or end of April of the following year.
• Step 4 Once selected, you will have to attend a mandatory German language course, which is a necessary and important part of your scholarship.
• Step 5 After the successful completion of your language course in Germany, your PhD will begin in October.

Living on your own comes with lots of responsibilities, at the same time it can also be very  interesting. It starts with finding a place to stay, learning how to cook, shopping on a budget, making friends and connections. Hope this section helps you with some of your questions.

How do I find accommodation?

Germany offers various types of accommodations:

• Students hall of residence:  Here you can rent rooms provided by  Student Services Organisation ( Studentenwerk ). They are low in cost and preferred by many students. Studentenwerk also provides specially designed Service Kits for international students. Get in touch with Studentenwerk of your city know more.
• Shared Flats ( Wohngemeinschaft – WG) : Shared flat or WG is another affordable accommodation, where you have your own room in a flat and share the kitchen and the bathroom with other flatmates. Living in a shared flat is cheaper as the rent and other expenses  get shared. You can find advertisements for vacancies in WGs online on social media groups or on student-friendly websites.
• Private apartments:  If you prefer living alone, private apartments can be an option for you.  You can find them with the help of Studentenwerk, on boards in the university foyer or even on social media groups and websites for rental real estate.

Make sure to be on the lookout from early on, so that you find the best place at an affordable price.

How do I connect with other students?

Connecting with other students can help you to learn from their experience. It may also help you get acquainted with the lifestyle, once you are in Germany.

• Get in touch with  DAAD Young Ambassadors . They have studied or carried out their research in Germany. Contact them with your questions, they will be happy to guide you!
• You can also find out about various student associations and groups formed by students of your country/ region.
• You can contact students on various socials media platforms as well. There are groups based on nationalities or interests and activities.
• Many universities arrange introductory events. Ask the international office of your university about them. Research institutions too generally run such initiatives.

You can of course work in Germany as long as you follow the regulations, which are not complex and are easy to understand.

As an international student, you are permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. This will help you in getting a bit of extra pocket-money!OK

Can I work in Germany after my studies?

After completing your degree in Germany, you can choose from amongst a wide range of options:

You can stay on in the country for up to 1.5 years to look for a job that is in keeping with your education. Once you find a job, the residence permit issued to you for the purpose of studying, can be converted into a residence permit for taking gainful employment.

Germany has always had a very strong industry-academia linkage. A lot of scientific research is funded by the industry as well. During your studies you can get the opportunity to do internships with German companies, which can open new vistas for your professional career.

In Germany, a doctorate is a prerequisite for a career in research or higher education. Your options include:

• Teaching/Research Assistantships
• Postdoc Positions
• Research Positions in Industry

The portal  www.academics.com has Germany’s biggest online job market for researchers. There are also scholarships for Postdocs offered by the  Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation  and other organizations.

Whether you are in India, Nepal or Bhutan, the DAAD is there to help you with your study in Germany plans. Check out how you can reach us!

Individual Appointments

You can connect with the DAAD offices online or offline in Bengaluru ,  Chennai ,  New Delhi  and  Pune .

Information Sessions

The DAAD offers free of cost information session about studying in Germany regularly. Check which dates and topics suit you, register and join!

Click here for dates, timings and registration links: www.daad.in/events .

Take a look at the DAAD’s guidelines for writing research proposal

Research Proposal writing: Guidelines 2023

PhD Proposal Writing Workshop

Wondering how to write a PhD proposal? The DAAD offers PhD Proposal Writing Workshop on various topics for aspirants who intend to pursue their doctorate in Germany!

© DAAD India

• Did you find the information about  doctoral studies in Germany useful? Keep the digital  PhD brochure with you, so that it is all handy!
• You will also find the digital brochure Research Proposal Guidelines 2023 useful.
• There is comfort  and certainty in numbers. With the fact sheet Germany India 2022 you can check out actual number of Indian students, what fields they are opting for and which universities they have preferred.

List of Germany Scholarships, Grants, and Fellowships for International Students

Daad scholarships in germany for development-related postgraduate courses.

Deadline: Aug-Oct 2024 (annual) Study in:  Germany Next course starts AY 2025/2026

DAAD Helmut-Schmidt Masters Scholarships for Public Policy and Good Governance

Deadline: 31 July 2024 (annual) Study in:  Germany Next course starts Sept/Oct 2025

• Scholarships in Germany for International Students

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Germany has become a popular destination for foreign students looking for an international education. German Universities offers internationally recognized programs at a relatively cheaper cost compared to UK, USA or Australia. Moreover, there are a significant number of available scholarships in Germany for international students to study in Germany for free .

Heinrich Boll Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Deadline: 1 Mar/1 Sep (annual) Study in:  Germany Next course starts 2024

The Deutschlandstipendium at German Universities

Deadline: University-dependent (Annual) Study in: Germany Course starts 2024

KAAD Scholarships in Germany for Developing Countries

Deadline:  15 Jan/30 Jun (annual) Study in:  Germany Course starts 2024

Friedrich Naumann Foundation Scholarship for International Students

Deadline: 31 Oct/30 Apr (Annual) Study in: Germany, Switzerland Course starts April/Oct 2024

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung Scholarships for International Students

Deadline: 1 Oct/1 April  (Annual) Study in: Germany Course starts April/Oct 2022

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarships

Deadline: 31 May/30 Nov (Annual) Study in: Germany Course starts 2024/25

DRD Scholarships for Sub-Saharan Africans

Deadline: 20 June 2021 (annual) Study in:  South Africa/Germany Course starts Jan-May 2022

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Deadline:  15 July (annual) Study in:  Germany Course starts 2024

• 10+ Scholarships in Canada for International Students
• Fully Funded Scholarships for International Students
• Top 25 Scholarships in USA for International Students
• Top 5 Countries Where Tuition is Free in 2024
• 10 Distance Learning Scholarships & Tuition Free Online Degree/Courses
• Top 10 Scholarships in Italy for International Students
• 35+ International Scholarships for Development-Related Studies
• Top 10 Prestigious Scholarships for the Best International Students
• Top 15 International Scholarships for Developing Country Students
• 20+ Tuition Scholarships offered by Universities for International Students
• Top 10 Scholarships for Study in Any Country or Anywhere

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Scholarships in Germany for International Students

Germany is comparatively affordable – both in terms of living costs as well as education costs . 

Higher education at most public universities is nearly free. But, of course, if you’re studying abroad there are so many other things to account for besides tuition fees. Which is probably what brings you to our scholarship guide.

Luckily, there are plenty of scholarships to choose from in Germany. So, let’s go and get into more detail.

Check out these scholarships for international students in Germany:

Table of Contents

Government and Organization-Funded Scholarships

Some of the most generous scholarships for Germany are from government and organization-funded programs. They play a big role in making higher education here even more accessible for students from all over the world.

Here are the most popular scholarships in this category:

Expatrio Scholarship

Who can apply? The Expatrio scholarship is open to international students from all countries. Applicants must have applied for the Expatrio Value Package and plan to start studying in Germany in the upcoming semester (winter semester 2024).

What does the scholarship cover? Expatrio will pick three main winners: the first prize is €12,000, the second place receives €6,000, and the third place gets €3,000. Many more prizes will be awarded from the fourth to tenth-place winners.

What are the requirements? Students are assessed based on their video submission answering the following question: Why are you passionate about the field of study you are pursuing in Germany? Your video should be in mp4 format, should not be longer than 2 minutes, or include any copyrighted content.

When is the deadline? The deadline to send your video submission is 30th September 2024.

> Go to the scholarship.

DAAD Scholarship Programs

Who can apply? DAAD Scholarships annually awards students from all over the world who want to pursue master’s degrees, Ph.D. studies, and postdoctoral research in Germany.

What does the scholarship cover? The fully-funded scholarships offer monthly stipends (€992 for graduates and €1,200 for doctoral/Ph.D. students). Most programs also offer travel allowances, payment towards health insurance costs, and annual study allowances.

What are the requirements? Applicants should display good academic performance and achievements. Depending on the scholarship, you’ll need to present a recognized school leaving certificate, proof of proficiency in the language of instruction or working language(s), and relevant internships or work experience.

When is the deadline? Deadlines for DAAD Scholarships vary by type and country. For accurate and up-to-date information, check the program details on the official DAAD website.

> Go to the scholarships.

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

Who can apply? This scholarship program is open to master’s and doctoral students of all nationalities, who are studying at universities, universities of applied sciences, and universities of the arts in Germany.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship values depend on your nationality and level of studies:

• Student scholarships. EU nationals/students educated in Germany receive up to €812 and a €300 study allowance per month (plus other possible allowances). Non-EU nationals/refugees not educated in Germany get €992 per month, plus health insurance and other allowances. 
• Doctoral scholarships. German & foreign students educated in Germany and EU nationals not educated in Germany receive a basic scholarship of €1,450 per month plus a monthly €100 allowance. Non-EU nationals & students educated outside of Germany receive €1,400 per month, a €100 monthly mobility allowance, plus other individual allowances.

What are the requirements? Here are the application requirements and selection criteria for the two scholarship types:

• Student scholarships. Students applying for the master’s degree scholarship should include a copy of their first degree certificate or first professional qualification and showcase academic achievements, social engagement, and motivation.
• Doctoral scholarships. Germans/foreign students educated in Germany, EU nationals/students not educated in Germany, and non-EU nationals/students not educated in Germany are all eligible. To apply, you need to have proof of admission to doctoral studies. Applicants should also demonstrate excellent academic performance, research project quality, social engagement, and motivation.

When is the deadline? There are two deadlines to accommodate the two semesters: March 1st and September 1st of each year. 

DeutschlandStipendium National Scholarship Program

Who can apply? The Deutschlandstipendium is available to any student who is currently enrolled or will soon be enrolling at a partner institution of the scholarship, as long as they are within the standard duration of their studies.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship awards 300 euros per month for at least two semesters, with the possibility to extend for the entire standard period of studies.

What are the requirements? The Deutschlandstipendium is granted by universities, therefore applicants must fit the requirements of the university they apply to. Selection criteria most often include high academic performance, social engagement, and personal achievements. This scholarship is not based on personal or parental income and doesn’t affect BAföG grants.

When is the deadline? The application period depends on the university but is usually around the months leading up to the start of the academic year (June to August).

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship

Who can apply? The scholarship is for international students with a first university degree, who want to do a master’s, PhD, or research program at a German university that lasts at leat four semesters.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship offers financial assistance, personal guidance, a seminar program, and access to the KAS network. Graduate students receive €992 per month for two years and PhD students receive €1,400 per month for three years. More subsidies for health insurance, family allowance, children’s allowance, and course-related fees may be available.

What are the requirements? Master’s applicants must have a university degree, demonstrate strong academic performance, possess B2-level German language skills, engage in voluntary work, plan for a minimum of four semesters in Germany, have a broad education, and support democracy and human rights. 

Ph.D. applicants should fulfill the same criteria as master’s applicants along with some additional requirements. You’ll need to provide a detailed thesis description, a second academic letter of recommendation from your thesis supervisor, and confirmation of supervision by your doctoral advisor.

When is the deadline? Deadlines and application procedures are different for international applicants from focus countries or regions determined for the year. We recommend consulting the respective office of the foundation in your home country for more information. For domestic applicants in Germany, the application period ends on July 15th of every year. 

Erasmus+ Scholarship Programs

Who can apply? The Erasmus+ scholarships for studying abroad are open to students in short-cycle, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs who want to participate in an exchange program in Germany. Students from EU Member States and associated third countries are mostly eligible, but there are also many opportunities for students from non-associated countries.

What does the scholarship cover? Students receive a one-time travel grant and a monthly stipend for daily living expenses in Germany. They’re also exempt from tuition, registration, and examinations fees, among other benefits at the receiving institution. Trainees, students with fewer opportunities, and those from outermost regions are eligible for more support.

What are the requirements? To apply, applicants must meet these general requirements:

• Applicants must be enrolled in a study program leading to a recognized degree or tertiary-level qualification at a higher education institution that participates in the Erasmus+ program.
• The study period abroad must be relevant to their degree-related learning and personal development needs. 
• The applicant’s home institution must sign an Erasmus cooperation agreement with the receiving institution.

Specific election criteria vary by program, but most often include your study results (GPA), motivation letter, and language proficiency (English or German).

When is the deadline? Application dates can vary depending on the sending and receiving country. To get notified of upcoming scholarships, check with your home institution’s international office or Erasmus+ coordinator.

> Go to the scholarship or find more details in our guide: Studying in Germany through Erasmus+ .

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships

Who can apply? This scholarship is for students and doctoral candidates accepted into a state or state-recognized German university. They must demonstrate excellent school or academic merit, wish to pursue their studies in Germany, and be committed to the values of social democracy.

What does the scholarship cover? The FES scholarship program for international students awards a base monthly stipend of €992 for students in state or state-recognized degree programs. For doctoral students, it awards €1,400 per month for up to three years.

What are the requirements? Application requirements include: general personal information, details about your professional and family background, your motivation to become a FES scholarship holder, and information about your socio-political commitment.

Doctoral candidates also need to submit an exposé of their dissertation project . After the first review, you must submit two academic references, a detailed CV, relevant certificates, and proof of enrollment. Shortlisted candidates will take part in two selection interviews: one with a trusted lecturer and one with a member of the selection committee.

When is the deadline? Application deadlines for the FES scholarship vary by program and applicant group. They generally align with different academic stages, from before starting university to several semesters into the program. For doctoral funding, applications are accepted year-round, up to about 2 years before submitting the dissertation. You can find all the deadlines listed here .

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellowships

Who can apply? The European Postdoctoral Fellowships within the MSCA program are open to researchers of any nationality and from all scientific disciplines who hold a doctoral degree and wish to pursue a 1 to 2-year research project in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country.

What does the scholarship cover? Funding supports European fellows (12-24 months) with living, mobility, and if applicable, family, long-term leave, and special needs allowances. The scholarship also covers funds for research, training, and networking activities.

What are the requirements? Applicants should have a maximum of 8 years of full-time post-graduate research experience (with some exceptions for career breaks). The expert panel will assess candidates based on Excellence (50%), Impact (30%), and Implementation Quality (20%).

When is the deadline? The current deadline for submitting proposals is 11 September 2024. The next call for proposals will open on 9 April 2025 and close on 10 September 2025.

> Go to the fellowships.

StipendiumPlus

Who can apply? Students from Germany, EU countries, and other international students who meet the Section 8 eligibility requirements of BAföG can apply for StipendiumPlus. Applicants must be students or doctoral candidates enrolled at a public or state-recognized higher education institution in Germany.

What does the scholarship cover? The student funding includes these monthly allowances: €812 basic stipend, up to €94 for health insurance and €28 nursing care insurance, childcare allowance of €160 per child, and €300 for study-related expenses.

The doctoral scholarships includes these monthly allowances: €1,450 stipend, up to €100 for health insurance, 155 in family allowance, €100 for research costs, and child care allowance starting from €155.

What are the requirements? Applicants should be enrolled at a recognized German higher education institution and demonstrate exceptional achievements in their studies. Doctoral candidates should also have a promising doctoral topic. More specific requirements will vary depending on the awarding organization within StipendiumPlus.

When is the deadline? Application deadlines vary by program depending on the organization awarding the scholarship. The awarding organizations are listed here , so please visit their respective website for more information.

> Go to the program. 

Bayer Foundation Fellowships

Who can apply? The three Bayer Foundation Fellowships are eligible to medical students and students pursuing a master or PhD in scientific disciplines (pharmacy, data science, medical engineering, to name a few). International and German applicants are both eligible.

What does the scholarship cover? The fellowships awards up to €10,000 per applicant to cover international research projects, internships, and other activities for up to 6 months. Fellows can also get additional funding to cover travel, visa, living, and exceptional project costs.

What are the requirements? Here is the main criteria:

• Otto Bayer Fellowships for Drug Discovery Sciences: applicants must be studying in a MSc or PhD program in natural science, pharmacy, or data science.
• Jeff Schell Fellowships for Agricultural Sciences: applicants must be MSc or PhD students in a in natural science or data science program.
• Carl Duisberg Fellowships for Medical Sciences: applicants must be student of human or veterinary medicine or be studying for MSc or PhD in medical engineering, applied medical sciences, public health, or data science in medicine. 

For all fellowships, applicants must have excellent academic records and show innovation, relevance to their field, and awareness of the societal impact of their research. Collaborative and interdisciplinary proposals are also highly encouraged.

When is the deadline? The last application cycle was opened from February 12th, 2024 to April 9th, 2024. The 2025 application call is yet to be announced.

Scholarships Offered by German Universities

Many German universities have separate funds for their own scholarships. If you’re enrolled in one of the universities below, consider these scholarships:

Humboldt Research Fellowship

Who can apply? The Humboldt Research Fellowship is open to researchers of all nationalities (except German) and academic disciplines. There are two types of fellowships:

• Fellowship for postdoctoral researchers: Recent doctorate holders (less than four years) or candidates who are near completing (within six months) and can present the results of their dissertation.
• Fellowship for experienced researchers: Researchers who completed their doctorate within the last 12 years and have a substantial publication record. Applicants with a master’s degree completed within the last 16 years may also be considered.

What does the scholarship cover? The fellowship covers a monthly stipend of €2,670 for postdoctoral researchers (from 6 to 24 months) and a monthly stipend of €3,170 for experienced researchers (6 to 18 months, possible to divide into up to three stays within three years). Additionally, fellows can receive family, private health insurance, and travel allowances.

What are the requirements? Applicants must be non-German nationals with a doctorate completed within the last four years (postdocs) or twelve years (experienced researchers). You should have a confirmation of facilities from a German host, together with two expert reviews. Depending on your field, you will need to prove German or English proficiency. 

To apply, send your CV, research outline, list of publications, doctoral certificate, and language certificate (if required).

When is the deadline? The fellowship’s selection committee meets in March, July, and November, so you should apply well in advance of the desired selection date. The fellowship can start between two and twelve months after selection. If you application was unanimously rejected, you can reapply only after 18 months.

> Go to the fellowship. 

TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship 

Who can apply? The scholarship targets outstanding German and international students who are currently enrolled in one of the master’s programs at the Technical University of Munich:  “Data Engineering and Analytics” or “Mathematics in Data Science” 

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €1000 for up to 12 months.

What are the requirements? Applicants must be students of one of the two master’s program who are enrolled at least since the summer semester 2024 (for 2024 applications). Female students are particularly encouraged to apply. 

To apply, you need to send an application form and provide personal and academic information, a motivation letter, CV, recommendation letter, transcripts (bachelor’s degree), and a current examination report for TUM master’s program.

When is the deadline? This cycle’s application deadline is September 1, 2024. Successful applicants will receive funding starting from October 1, 2024.

Heidelberg University HAUS Scholarships

Who can apply? The Heidelberg Alumni U.S. (HAUS) Scholarship is for qualified students from the United States who were recently accepted at a bachelor or master’s study program at the University of Heidelberg.

What does the scholarship cover? Bachelor’s program students receive $4,500 for one semester and master’s students receive $7,000. Depending on the funds available, scholars can get an extension for one more semester.

What are the requirements? Candidates must be undergraduate or master’s program students with strong academic credentials enrolled at or graduated from a U.S. institution of higher education. They must have U.S. residency, and be accepted as students at Heidelberg University. Students already enrolled at Heidelberg University or receiving a scholarship from a different source are not eligible.

When is the deadline? The 2024 application is closed. The next application cycle opens in early 2025.

> Go to the scholarship.  

University of Hamburg Merit Scholarships

Who can apply? The merit scholarship is for outstanding international students (not holding German citizenship) who have been enrolled in an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral program at Universität Hamburg for at least 2 semesters.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship awards up to €930 per month. Individual doctoral researchers may receive up to €1,200 per month in merit scholarships (limited amount). The funding duration is 2 semesters (12 months), with the possibility to reapply for a maximum funding period of 3 years.

What are the requirements? Applicants must be enrolled at Universität Hamburg and have completed at least 2 semesters. They must not hold German citizenship and should not be eligible for the federal student loan scheme. 

To apply, you need to submit a CV, letter of motivation, proof of social/intercultural activities (if applicable), academic records, and evaluations from two professors or junior professors at the university. A committee of faculty and student council members will assess applicants based on academic performance, other skills, social engagement, and financial need. 

When is the deadline? 

The application deadlines are: 

• 15 April (funding period: 1 October – 30 September of the same year)
• 15 October (funding period: 1 April – 31 March of the following year).

Berlin International University of Applied Sciences Christian Wulff Scholarship

Who can apply? The Christian Wulff scholarship at Berlin International (BI) is awarded to one BA or MA student of the university.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship covers 50 percent of the tuition fee from the time it is awarded until the end of the regular studies (up to the 6th semester).

What are the requirements? The scholarship is awarded based on outstanding academic achievements and extraordinary engagement within the BI community. The recipient is nominated by the president and the deans of BI’s faculties and is announced at the graduation ceremony.

When is the deadline? There is no application deadline for this scholarship, the recipient is selected by the university itself.

Federal German State-Specific Scholarships

You’ll also find scholarships that are specific to the German federal state where you’ll be studying or currently studying. Here are some to consider:

Baden-Württemberg Stiftung

Who can apply? The BW-Stipendium for university students awards around 1,500 scholarships each year for two groups: 1) students studying in Baden-Württemberg who want to go abroad and 2) students from international universities who are studying in Baden-Württemberg. 

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship amount ranges from €600 to €1,400 per month, for 3 to 11 months. Recipients also receive non-material assistance and become part of an international network connecting individuals from diverse disciplines and cultures.

What are the requirements? To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled at a higher education institution in Baden-Württemberg or a partner institution abroad. The scholarship is awarded to about 1,500 students each year. Selection criteria may include academic merit and other relevant qualifications.

When is the deadline? The application deadline varies and should be confirmed with the International Office at your higher education institution. 

> Go to the scholarship. 

Bavaria – Max We­ber-Program

Who can apply? The Max Weber Program scholarship is for students studying at tertiary education institutions in Bavaria who have completed at least two full semesters and are under 23 years old at the time of admission.

What does the scholarship cover? Students get a semester allowance of €1,290 and financial support for study projects abroad. You’ll also benefit from a comprehensive educational program of seminars and events to support personal development.

What are the requirements? Applicants can apply directly or be nominated by a professor, Elite Graduate Program Head, or an examination board. You must be enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree or a subsequent Master’s degree program at a higher education institution in Bavaria.

You will need to showcase intellectual abilities, dedication, communication and social skills, and involvement in extracurricular activities. The selection process involves two one-on-one interviews and group sessions at a selection seminar.

When is the deadline? You should send your application by November 1 for the direct application route. Nominated candidates should apply by January 15 for nominated candidates.

> Go to the program.

Bavaria – Mari­an­ne-Plehn-Pro­gram

Who can apply? The Marianne-Plehn-Program is for outstanding young scientists who are pursuing doctoral studies in Bavaria and are part of the German Academic Scholarship Foundation.

What does the scholarship cover? The program offers combined part-time employment opportunities (25%) at any university in Bavaria with financial support from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. You’ll also benefit from the Elite Network of Bavaria activities, networking opportunities, and add-ons.

What are the requirements? To qualify for the Marianne-Plehn-Program, applicants need a doctoral scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation, which they can apply for within twelve months of starting their doctoral scholarship. They must conduct their doctoral studies at a Bavarian university and start the 25% part-time employment within six months of funding approval.

Applicants need documented willingness from a department at a Bavarian university to host the employment, must take on teaching tasks, and show how the employment benefits their dissertation and qualifications.

When is the deadline? The application for the Marianne-Plehn-Program can be submitted simultaneously with or after an application for a doctoral scholarship from the German Academic Scholarship Foundation, but no later than twelve months after starting the doctoral scholarship.

The Lower Saxony Scholarship (Niedersachsenstipendium)

Who can apply? The Lower Saxony State Scholarship (Niedersachsenstipendium) is for talented and committed undergraduate or consecutive Master’s degree program students at a university in Lower Saxony who are:

• First-generation university students,
• Facing challenging study conditions due to being refugees, 
• Or experiencing special social circumstances, such as significant volunteering work or financial hardships in large families.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship provides a one-off payment of €500 per semester.

What are the requirements? To apply for the Lower Saxony Scholarship (Niedersachsenstipendium), you must be enrolled at a participating university in Lower Saxony and not on leave at the start of the funding period. 

You should meet the eligibility requirements of social involvement, motivation, and having faced educational disadvantages such as being a first-generation university student. The application is online through the respective university’s student portal and typically requires a CV, motivation letter, proof of enrollment, and academic transcripts.

When is the deadline? The application process and deadlines for the “Lower Saxony State Scholarship” are determined by the individual universities in Lower Saxony. Therefore, check with your university’s website or international office for more information.

Berlin – Elsa Neumann Scholarship

Who can apply? The Elsa Neumann scholarship is for doctoral researchers who are enrolled and supervised at one of the universities in Berlin. It is provided in accordance with the Berlin State Act to Support Early-Career Researchers and Artists (Gesetz zur Förderung des wissenschaftlichen und künstlerischen Nachwuchses).

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship offers a monthly stipend of €1,350 for up to 36 months. Recipients also get a €100 flat rate for material costs. Family allowances and special allowances for travel costs may also apply. 

Scholarships are initially awarded for a period of up to two years, but you must submit progress reports and get statements from academic supervisors. The final scholarships for dissertation completion will be for a maximum of one year and cannot be extended.

What are the requirements? Applicants need outstanding academic records, research contributions, and must be academically supervised at a Berlin university. Public funding recipients are ineligible.

When is the deadline? There are two application rounds, one in April and one in November. The last application round ended on April 17th, 2024. The applications will reopen from September 11th to November 13th, 2024.

MBA Scholarships for International Students in Germany

Many top-notch business schools in Germany offer scholarships to international business students,  including MBA students. Some of the most popular include:

ESMT MBA Scholarships

Who can apply? ESMT Berlin offers several different MBA scholarships designed for outstanding applicants. These scholarships target various groups, including women in business, LGBTQ+ individuals, applicants from specific regions, those with excellent academic and professional profiles, and more.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarship award varies depending on the program. Scholarships can cover tuition fees, ranging from €1,000 to €24,750. For some scholarships, recipients get financial support to participate in ESMT’s summer entrepreneurship program among other benefits.

What are the requirements? Most scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, personal and professional achievements, leadership potential, and interpersonal skills. For some scholarships, applicants are chosen from their essay responses to questions on the scholarship’s theme, such as diversity, entrepreneurship, or social impact. Some scholarship requirements can also target applicants’ backgrounds, including nationality, gender, and military service.

When is the deadline? Please refer to the ESMT Berlin website for the most up-to-date information on scholarship application deadlines. They are generally part of the MBA application process at one of the school’s programs.

HHL Leipzig Scholarships

Who can apply? These scholarships are mostly for candidates applying to HHL’s full-time MBA program, but each scholarship has focus areas or criteria. The list includes the Middle East Scholarship, Africa Scholarship, Latin America Scholarship, Eastern Europe Scholarship, Women in Business Scholarship, Future Entrepreneur Scholarship, Young Leipzig Leader Scholarship, and Dean’s List Scholarship.

What does the scholarship cover? Successful candidates for these scholarships will receive a partial tuition reduction for the full-time MBA program. The exact amount varies depending on the scholarship.

What are the requirements? Scholarship applicants must meet general criteria, including holding an undergraduate degree, having at least three years of work experience, a good GMAT score, and applying for the full-time MBA program. 

Depending on the scholarship, you will have to meet other specific requirements. For example, the Dean’s List Scholarship applicants must have exceptional academic and professional achievements, international experience, dedication to social causes, outstanding admission interviews, and alignment with HHL’s values. Other region-based scholarship applicants need to be from one of the focus countries of the scholarship.

When is the deadline? You should submit your scholarship application together with the MBA program application. The earlier you apply, the better the chances of financial support. The Dean’s List Scholarship deadline is June 30th annually.

WHU Otto Beisheim Scholarships

Who can apply? WHU offers various scholarships for candidates from all countries applying to their MBA program. These scholarships aim to support students who can bring unique values to the MBA class.

What does the scholarship cover? The scholarships do not specify a fixed amount, and they can vary from one recipient to another. The WHU e-fellows.net Scholarship is an exception, and awards specifically €10,000. 

What are the requirements? The requirements and selection criteria for WHU scholarships depend on the scholarship. General criteria include good academic performance, professional experience, entrepreneurship, leadership, and GMAT/GRE results. 

Other scholarship-based requirements can include gender (e.g., WHU Women in Business Scholarship), participation in specific programs (e.g., e-fellows.net Scholarship), or nationality (WHU – FUNED Scholarship for Mexican applicants). 

Each scholarship application requires an essay and a detailed description of the applicant’s financial plan. You should submit the scholarship application before signing the study contract. 

When is the deadline? Scholarships at WHU are limited, and they are awarded on a rolling basis, so applying early improves your chances. WHU also has an Early Bird offer, with different application deadlines for tuition fee discounts: September 30 (€7,000 off), November 30 (€6,000 off), January 31 (€5,000 off), and March 31 (€3,000 off). 

Frankfurt School of Finance and Management Scholarships

Who can apply? The different scholarships are available for applicants of the school’s different MBA programs, including Executive MBA, MBA in International Healthcare Management, Part-time MBA, and Full-time MBA. Specific scholarships target high-performing candidates, entrepreneurs, sector-specific backgrounds, women in business, and those with a global mindset.

What does the scholarship cover? Frankfurt School scholarships offer a partial tuition fee reduction of up to 30% for the respective MBA program.

What are the requirements? Scholarship recipients are selected based on academic performance, GMAT results, application quality, personal achievements, and needs.

Extracurricular activities, social commitment, intercultural skills, international experience, and professional background are also considered. Each scholarship may have unique criteria related to academic excellence, entrepreneurship, leadership, sector-specific expertise (e.g. healthcare management), or diversity.

When is the deadline? The MBA scholarships are on a rolling basis, so early application is recommended. There is no specified deadline for scholarship applications, as they are reviewed after the admission decision has been made.

Mannheim Business School Scholarships

Who can apply? Mannheim Business School offers different scholarships for outstanding candidates, including the Most Outstanding Candidate Scholarship, Excellent Candidates Scholarship, Women in Business Scholarship, and the MBS Network Scholarship.

What does the scholarship cover? The applicant’s performance throughout the selection process highly contributes to the final scholarship amount. However, all scholarships are partial and cover a portion of the MBA program’s tuition fee.

What are the requirements? Some general requirements include exceptional achievements (academic & professional), motivation, good GMAT/GRE scores, and language skills. More specific requirements can apply depending on the scholarship, for example, Women in Business targets accomplished women, whereas the Industry Diversity Scholarship targets applicants from different backgrounds such as consulting, energy & utilities, professional services, etc.

When is the deadline? The regular deadline is July 15, 2024. There are also two early bird deadlines for program applications: January 31, 2024 (€4,000 discount) and April 30, 2024 (€2,000 discount). 

If you’re still undecided about studying in Germany or don’t know which university to apply to, take a look at our helpful resources:

• List of all study programs for international students in Germany
• Requirements to study in Germany for international students
• What does it cost to study in Germany?
• Planning your studies in Germany

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Information on Scholarship Programmes

Scholarship programme 1.

KAAD's scholarship work can be subsumed under three programmes: Scholarship Programme 1 comprises >> the Invitation Programme in cooperation with the focus countries and is aimed at postgraduates and persons with proven professional experience who are usually invited to Germany for postgraduate studies or research stays >> In-country Programme for Master's studies in the home country: at fifteen locations in eight countries (Ethiopia, Ghana, Guatemala, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Peru, Zimbabwe) >> Third-country Programme for Master's studies in a selected third country (e.g. Bangkok/Thailand for students from Myanmar). Third-country scholarships for students from other continents are possible at selected third-country locations. This applies in particular to refugees from Syria studying in Lebanon and Jordan.

Scholarship Programme 1 for Germany

In-country and Third-country Scholarships

Scholarship Programme 2

Scholarship Programme 2 supports students from countries of the Global South who are already studying for their PhD or Master's degree in Germany. The Catholic University Chaplaincies have the right to propose suitable applicants.

Eastern Europe Programme

The Eastern Europe Programme supports - in cooperation with the partner committees - PhD and Master's programmes, as well as shorter study and research stays in Germany.

How to apply

You are living in your home country and would like to come to Germany to study?

You are already living in Germany?

Would you like to study in your home country?

Would you like to study in a country in your home region?

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Important information for scholarship applicants

You would like to apply for a DAAD scholarship in Germany? Information and answers to questions about application conditions, requirements and the selection procedure are available here.

• A.Requirements for scholarship application

B. Preparing your application

C. planning your project, d. writing your application, e. the selection procedure, f. scholarship benefits, a. requirements for scholarship application, 1. is there an age limit for daad scholarships.

No, there is usually no fixed age limit. There are individual exceptions in programmes in which this is explicitly requested by an international partner. Most scholarship programmes stipulate that only a certain amount of time should have elapsed since the last degree was obtained (see also question 2 ). For details, please refer to the respective Call for Applications at www.funding-guide.de under the heading "Application requirements" .

2. I finished my university degree or started my doctorate longer ago than the application requirements specify. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, an application may be permissible under the following circumstances which may have a delaying effect on studies or doctoral projects:

• pregnancy and childbirth
• care of children up to the age of 12 (maximum of three years per child)
• care of care-dependent relatives
• disability or chronic illness
• prolonged, serious illness
• compulsory military service
• if applicable, other circumstances.

The dates of birth of children and periods of childcare or care of relatives or longer periods of absence due to illness or disability should be indicated in the application form; the last free text field "Other comments / Information"  is available for this purpose. DAAD reserves the right to ask you to submit appropriate supporting documents.

Please provide proof of disabilities or illnesses in the form of a disability card or medical certificate. If possible, the medical certificate should indicate the periods of absence.

Information about studying abroad with a disability or chronic illness is provided in the following: Mobility with a Disability .

Other circumstances must also be justified and substantiated with supporting documents.

3. I have not completed my university degree by the application deadline. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

Yes, in programmes which require a first university degree, you can apply in your last year of study. You must then meet all the academic requirements set out in the Call for Applications by the time your funding period begins. Also, you can hand in your degree later; it must be submitted before the start of the funding period.

4. I'm already in Germany. Am I still eligible to apply?

Yes, if you have been in Germany for a maximum of 15 months by the closing date for applications and the Call for Scholarship Applications makes no other specifications.

5. I am not currently living in my country of origin. Am I still eligible to apply for a scholarship?

An application from your current country of residence is possible under certain circumstances:

• If you wish to apply for a short-term scholarship (up to 6 months), you must have lived in your country of residence for at least one year at the time of application and have a residence there.
• If you would like to come to Germany for more than 6 months, you must also have obtained your last degree (e.g. Bachelor / Master ) in your country of residence or obtain this degree until the start of the scholarship.

In any case, you can apply from your country of origin, even if you currently live in another country and meet the above requirements. Your country of origin is usually the country in which you have spent most of your life and may differ from your nationality.

Example: You were born and raised in Albania and have lived in the UK for four years , where you also obtained your Bachelor's degree. It is best to apply from the UK as you have a UK degree. It is possible to apply from Albania as an alternative. - However, you may not apply from both countries at the same time.

We strongly recommend that you seek information and advice to find out which scholarship programmes are available to you. Contact persons are listed in the Scholarship database under "Contact and advice" .

6. I have dual citizenship. From which country should I apply?

Dual nationals must apply from their country of origin (usually the country where you have spent most of your life). If the requirements are met, an application from the current country of residence is also possible, as described above (A5) . Nationality alone does not entitle you to apply from a country you have never lived in and are not currently living in.

Example: You were born and raised in Argentina, currently live there and have Argentinean and Italian citizenship. You can only apply from Argentina. It is not possible to apply from Italy.

7. I am enrolled in a study programme at a German university and aim to complete this degree in Germany, or I am completing a doctoral degree at a German university. Can I apply for a DAAD scholarship for a stay in a country other than Germany?

Under the following conditions, foreign nationals who live in Germany may also apply for a DAAD scholarhip for stays in other countries than Germany.

• You are enrolled in a study programme at a German university with the aim of obtaining a degree from the German university, or
• you are doing your doctorate at a German university

and want do go abroad during this time . This regulation does not apply to international students/ doctoral candidates who are already being funded with an "Incoming DAAD scholarship" in Germany.

In addition, persons of equal status to Germans according to § 8 Para. 1 Number 2ff. Paragraph 2, Paragraph 2a, and Paragraph 3 BAföG can apply. In this context, the wording of the law applies, which can be found here .

Furthermore, it will be checked to what extent there is a connection to Germany and whether there is a justified expectation that you will return to Germany after the end of the temporary stay abroad.

A funding in your home country is usually excluded.

Programmes for funding abroad for students in Germany are listed in our scholarship database www.auslands-stipendien.de .

8. Can I apply for a scholarship whatever subject I am studying?

Principally yes: DAAD offers many  scholarship programmes that are open to almost all subjects, although restrictions apply to some subjects (e.g. medicine).

There are also subject-specific programmes that are aimed at very specific subject areas, such as architecture, music or computer science. In the Scholarship database , you can select the scholarships programmes that are offered for your subject group.

9. What language skills do I need to apply for a scholarship?

Not all programmes require a general minimum language level for funding applications. Depending on country of origin and scholarship programme, however, certain language skills may be expected. You can find out which requirements these are in the section "Application requirements"  and under "Application documents"  of the Call for Applications. Please read these requirements thoroughly to find out what applies to your programme and your country.

If you are awarded the scholarship, the DAAD can provide a preparatory German language course for you. The DAAD scholarship selection committee will assess whether such a German course is necessary for you and how many months (maximum six) are appropriate. These German courses will enable you to improve your German language skills. However, it is not realistic to reach the level required for university admission within the framework of these courses if you have no or only very limited German language skills by then.

In order to apply for a place at a German higher education institution and thus to start your scholarship , you must also submit proof of your language skills (e.g. DSH or TestDaF if the language of instruction is German; e.g. TOEFL or IELTS if the language of instruction is English). Level C1 is often required; however, this varies from degree programme to degree programme. Please contact your chosen host university as early as possible to find out about the requirements you need to meet. You can also find more information about the requirements on our website.

10. My German language skills are not yet sufficient. Are there e-learning language courses that I can take in my home country to improve my skills?

Yes, there are internet offers for learning German . For example, the Goethe-Institut as well as Deutsche-Uni Online (DUO) offer special online courses in German. For scholarship holders whose funding lasts longer than six months, DAAD will pay the costs of one DUO module.

Furthermore, you can find a wide range of free online content for learning German on Deutsche Welle on learngerman.dw.com .

11. I am considering taking a distance / online / part-time course (e.g. dual course of study) in Germany. Am I eligible to apply for a DAAD scholarship?

No, DAAD scholarships are awarded to applicants wishing to complete a full-time course of study with compulsory attendance in Germany. This is why applicants wishing to take a blended learning or distance/e-learning programme or part-time programme (e.g. dual course of study) are not eligible for DAAD funding.

12. I already have a scholarship from the European Union, the DAAD or another organization in Germany. Can I still receive a DAAD scholarship?

If you are already funded by the DAAD, another German funding organization or another state agency in Germany, you cannot receive a scholarship from the DAAD at the same time.

An Erasmus scholarship is not compatible with a full DAAD scholarship. Scholarship holders in the "University Summer Courses in Germany" and "University Winter Courses in Germany" programmes as well as those who receive a partial scholarship from DAAD can also take advantage of ERASMUS funding.

13. I already had a DAAD scholarship, can I apply again?

It is not possible to combine several study or research scholarships (with a funding period of at least 7 months) within one educational period (which ends with the completion of a Bachelor's, Master's, Diplom, state examination etc. and a doctorate).

Specialist and language courses (e.g. university summer courses) and internships can be combined with all other types of scholarships.

You can apply to the funding programmes „ Research Stays for University Academics and Scientists “ , „ Study Visits for Academics - Artists and Architects “ and „ Re-invitation of former scholarship holders “ several times, but as a rule no more than once every three years.

Funding in the programm „Research grants in Germany“ is only possible once per educational period , i.e. once during the doctorate and once during the postdoc phase.

14. How good do my grades have to be in order for me to receive a DAAD scholarship?

The DAAD primarily supports individuals with high academic achievements. As a rule, the scholarship programmes do not stipulate a minimum grade point average for the application. Academic performance (selection criterion "qualification") is nevertheless an important criterion for the award of the scholarship.

But good grades are not everything: other aspects are also taken into account that are also important, such as the quality of the project, language skills, motivation, extracurricular commitment, special circumstances, etc.

Further information on the selection criteria can be found at Section E .

15. In the programme "Study scholarships for STEM disciplines a tuition-free degree programme must be selected. What does that mean exactly?

This means that it must be a degree programme for which no general tuition fees are charged. General tuition fees are sometimes charged by private universities, for example, as well as by state universities in the federal state of Baden-Württemberg.

The so-called "semester fees" are not general tuition fees. They are charged by all universities in Germany.

On the subject of tuition fees, please also read question F.7 and the information on our website on the costs of living and studying in Germany.

1. In the Call for Applications a so-called "letter of motivation" must be submitted. What does this mean?

In a letter of motivation, you are required to describe your professional and personal reasons for your planned project in Germany on at least one and no more than three pages.

A letter of motivation gives you the opportunity to describe your personality and the reasons why you are applying for DAAD funding in your own words. The following information and questions will help you write an informative letter of motivation.

• Studies: study programme, number of semesters , if applicable, degree
• Professional experience, if applicable
• Specialised knowledge, skills and language skills
• Prizes and awards (if applicable)
• Why do you wish to take the study programme or attend the language or specialist course for which you are applying?
• What appeals to you about your chosen university?
• What do you hope to gain from your stay in Germany (personal, professional, for your career)?
• Why are you applying for a DAAD scholarship?
• What do you expect of this scholarship?
• How will the scholarship help you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals?
• Here you can outline special extracurricular achievements and commitments or personal qualities that say something about your character.

2. The calls for applications for research grants require a so-called "proposal". What does this mean?

A proposal is a detailed and precise description of the project you have agreed to complete with your academic supervisor. In a proposal, you define the goals of your research work, reflect upon theoretical and methodical procedures and you describe the individual steps. You have to prepare and formulate the proposal yourself. Taking over proposals from others is a violation of the Rules of Good Academic Practice .

The objective

• What is the subject of your research project?
• Which steps are planned?
• What is the time schedule for your planned research project?

The structure

The proposal (unless otherwise stated in the scholarship announcement, maximum of 10 pages) should contain details about:

• The research field in general and the current state of research literature:
• What is the current state of research?
• Which theories/work of other academics will you draw upon?
• What theoretical framework or scientific models will you use? Explain the reasons why you are drawing on this theory or model. Are there competing theories/models and, if so, why are you not using these in your project?
• What is your research question?
• Key research questions (hypotheses), research objectives and academic relevance of the project:
• What do you intend to find out?
• What goals are you pursuing with your project?
• Research strategies/methods:
• How do you intend answering the research questions?
• How do you want to collect data (document analyses, quantitative or qualitative survey, experiment, etc.)?
• Which academic literature will you use?
• How will you evaluate results?
• What preparation have you already done or intend doing before funding begins?
• Ethical issues/anticipated difficulties related to collecting data
• Research bibliography: List of books and essays upon which your work is based.

Please note that the time plan must be uploaded to the DAAD portal as a separate document.

1. Do I need contacts in Germany when I apply?

If you wish to carry out individual research or complete a doctorate in Germany, you need confirmation from a university teacher that you are being supervised in Germany (see question 2 ). If you are taking part in a structured doctoral programme, proof of existing contacts to a doctoral programme coordinator must be submitted in the form of respective correspondence.

If you wish to take a Master's degree in Germany, all you need to provide is information about your study programmes for which you would like to apply (see "Application procedure" in the Call for Applications).

2. I need a supervisor for my individual project in Germany. Who can be my host?

Hosts can be university teachers or academic teaching staff who work at a state or state-recognised institution of higher education or a non-university research institution in Germany. If possible, the host should have a professorial qualification in an academic field.

These tips on the site Research in Germany will help you find an academic supervisor.

3. I have already found a supervisor for my individual project. What documents do I need from him/her for the application?

You need a "Letter confirming academic supervision" . With this, your academic host confirms their willingness to support you in carrying out your research project or doctorate . You must submit the confirmation of supervision together with your application.

Ideally, the letter of confirmation (informal) from your supervisor

• indicates that the description of your research project and schedule have been discussed,
• confirms that a workplace is available for you, and
• indicates which working language is spoken at the host institute.

4. I am planning to study for a Master's degree in Germany. What do I have to consider when applying for a place at university?

You will have to arrange your application for admission and possible matriculation at the host university yourself. Even a DAAD scholarship is no guarantee that you will get a place at a particular university in Germany. If you do not receive admission to study your scholarship will be forfeited.

It is therefore important that you inform yourself well in advance about the application requirements and deadlines and apply to several universities. When searching, also look for courses offered by universities of Applied sciences (HAW) or smaller universities. This will increase your chances of being admitted.

Information on suitable study programmes can be found, for example, in the database for international programmes or all degree programmes in the Higher Education Compass.

1. How do I apply for a DAAD scholarship?

Application procedures may vary depending on scholarship programme. To find out where and how to apply, please read the "Application procedure" section of the Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ). Seek advice if you have any questions.

Contact persons (often in your area) are listed under "Contact and advice" . A list of locations and contact data from the DAAD network is available here .

2. In the Call for Applications it is said that I have to apply through the DAAD portal.

What does this mean.

You have to apply online. To do this, you must register in the DAAD portal. In the scholarship database , first select your chosen scholarship programme and then the tab "Submit application" . Note that this tab is only shown during an ongoing application period. The closing date for applications is indicated in the "Application procedure" tab.

I have technical problems with my online application. What can I do?

If technical problems occur, the portal hotline is available to help you on weekdays from 9 am to midday at (+49) 228/882-8888 or by e-mail at [email protected] .

Which documents do I have to upload to be able to submit an application to the DAAD portal?

Your application is only complete if you submit all the application documents listed in the Call for Applications. Artistic work samples (e.g. audio files) are uploaded via a media databas e – you will receive an upload link as indicated in the Call for Aplication. In some cases, individual documents (e.g. university certificate) may be submitted at a later date if this is explicitly permitted in the programme's Call for Applications.

Do I receive confirmation that my application has been received?

Yes, as soon as you have submitted your application online, you will automatically receive confirmation that your application has been successfully submitted and an e-mail informing you that a message has been sent to you via the portal's messaging system. The message confirms that your application has been received.

3. The Call for Applications states that I have to submit a letter of recommendation from a university teacher. Who can write such a letter of recommendation for my application?

Letters of recommendation in scientific subjects should be written by university teachers with a doctoral degree who can provide information about the following:

• What are your academic achievements?
• What are your academic and personal qualities?
• Is your project well planned, feasible and relevant?
• What significance does the scholarship have for your academic and professional career?

Find out how to generate a form for the letter of recommendation in the respective Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ).

4. Do I have to apply in German?

Unless otherwise stated in the Call for Applications, you can submit your application either in German or English. Please note that application documents that are not in German or English, e.g. university certificates, must be translated either into German or English. The translations do not have to be certified for the application procedure and you may do the translations yourself.

5. What language certificates do I need when I apply for a scholarship?

You can find out what language certificates you need when you apply for a scholarship in the "Application procedure" section of the Call for Applications.

When submitting your scholarship application to the DAAD you must provide proof of your current level of proficiency in the language of instruction ( German, English or German and English ) of your chosen degree programme.

As a rule, the following certificates can be considered as language certificates for German :

• German Language Diploma of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs of the Länder in the Federal Republic of Germany (DSD),
• Goethe-Zertifikat ,
• Austrian Language Diploma as well as
• telc Deutsch and
• onSET Deutsch .

The following certificates, for example, can be submitted as proof of English language proficiency:

• Cambridge English,
• Cambridge Business,
• TOEFL Essentials,
• TOEIC as well as
• PTE Academic and
• An onSET test can be taken in many countries, e.g. with a DAAD Lecturer. Please also take a look at "Contact and Advice" .

6. I obtained a German Language Diploma II (DSD II) more than two years ago. Do I still have to submit a language certificate for German?

In this case, a simple placement test (e.g. a free online test) is a sufficient proof of your current language skills.

7. Do my certificates and transcripts (lists of grades) have to be certified for my application?

No, not initially. DAAD reserves the right to request certified documents after a positive selection decision has been made.

1. Who makes a decision about my application?

Scholarship applications are reviewed by an independent and voluntary selection committee. This may be made up of local and/or German university teachers, researchers and DAAD Lecturers. Depending on scholarship programme and the local situation, the best applicants may also be required to introduce themselves personally. This can take place either on site, face-to-face, or virtually.

Depending on programme, the selection decision is made either by the local selection committee directly or – in the case of a two-stage selection procedure – by another independent committee of academics in Germany. DAAD staff are not entitled to vote in the scholarship selection procedure.

2. Will I be informed of the names of the professors involved in the selection?

No. In order to maintain the independence of our volunteer selection committee members, we must ensure that they can make their assessments without any influence or bias. For this reason, like other funding institutions, we refrain from disclosing the composition of the individual commissions and the names of any additional experts who may have been consulted.

At the same time, strict bias regulations apply to the selection experts: To avoid conflicts of interest/bias, experts are not allowed to evaluate applications from the university’s own faculty or examine applicants with whom they have a personal (supervisory) relationship.

3. According to which criteria does the selection committee make its decision?

The key selection criteria are:

Professional qualification

• Academic achievements (grade point average, development of grades)
• Academic progress
• Knowledge of the language(s) of instruction or working language(s)
• Academic performance (general grade point average, grade development)
• School-leaving certificate, if applicable
• Course of studies
• Knowledge of the language of instruction or working language
• If applicable, relevant internships, work experience

Quality of the study or research project

Study project:

• Quality of the study project and of the preparation (preliminary information, choice of degree programme, host university and establishment of contacts)
• Integration of the project into the academic career path
• Quality of the study project as well as the preparation (preliminary information, choice of study programme, host university and establishment of contacts)

Research project:

• Quality of research proposal and preparation (originality, topicality and relevance of the project, choice of host institution and first contacts)
• Feasibility and consistency of study plan and schedule
• Incorporation of project within the overall doctorate (in terms of content and time), if relevant
• Quality of the research project as well as the preparation (originality, topicality and relevance of the project, choice of host institution and establishment of contacts).
• Feasibility and consistency of the work plan and timetable (analysis and evaluation steps)
• Embedding of the project in the overall doctoral project (in terms of content/time), if relevant

Potential of the applicant

• Motivation: academic and personal reasons for the stay in Germany, German language skills (if different from the working language);
• Prospects: Significance of the stay in Germany for further academic, professional and personal development.
• Extracurricular commitment: extracurricular knowledge and skills, social commitment.
• Motivation: professional and personal reasons for the stay in Germany, German language skills (if different from the working language);
• Perspectives: Importance of the stay in Germany for further academic, professional and personal development

In addition, in order to ensure equal opportunities, the selection committee may take into account special circumstances, which you can state in the application form. Examples of "special circumstances" are

• disability,
• chronic or prolonged illness,
• raising children,
• caring for relatives,
• extensive employment required to finance studies
• refugee background

In these or comparable cases, disadvantages will be compensated for when assessing the application.

Depending on scholarship programme, additional selection criteria may be relevant, e.g. language skills. To find out what applies to your programme, read the Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ).

1. How much scholarship money is paid a month?

The scholarship payment is based on the academic level of the scholarship holders and on the scholarship programme. Scholars taking a Master's programme typically receive  EUR   934 , doctoral candidates and postdocs  EUR 1,300 . Rates for university teachers are usually EUR 2,000 for assistant teachers , assistant professors and lecturers , EUR 2,150 for professors .

You can find an overview of other possible benefits in each programme's Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ).

2. Will I receive travel expenses and what else is important when planning a trip that is as climate-friendly as possible??

DAAD grants an allowance towards travel expenses in the form of a lump sum. You can find more information on the travel allowance in the respective Call for Applications the Scholarship database . Important for planning your trip: The DAAD is committed to climate protection and welcomes your decision in favour of environmentally friendly travel or, alternatively, a CO2 compensation payment (for air travel). There are various providers where you can offset (for example Atmosfair) - this is possible both before and after travelling. Some DAAD programmes reimburse these payments. At https://www.routerank.com you can check how high the CO2 emissions of your flight are. There you can also calculate whether alternatives (e.g. direct flights) would produce lower CO2 emissions. We have compiled tips on climate-friendly travelling in our brochure .

3. Are there additional benefits for family members?

Under certain conditions, DAAD offers an allowance for accompanying spouses, child allowance and insurance benefits for spouses, registered partners and children ("partner allowance"). For scholarship holders with a funding period of over six months, please read the Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ) to find out if a programme provides for family members. If the funding period is less than 6 months, no family benefits will be granted.

The "partner allowance" is 276 euros per month . If you are not entitled to state child benefit, you can apply for a DAAD child allowance in the amount of the state child benefit. Currently, you receive 250 euros per month per child . Information on state child benefit can be found here .

4. Do I have to take out health insurance in Germany and does DAAD contribute towards this?

Scholarship holders and accompanying family members must be covered by health insurance from the first day of their stay in Germany. In many programmes, insurance coverage is part of the scholarship. As a rule, the DAAD then takes out health insurance for the scholarship holder as part of the scholarship and pays the premiums. Please read the "Scholarship benefits" section of the Call for Applications in the Scholarship database ( www.funding-guide.de ).

If your chosen programme does not include insurance coverage, under certain circumstances you may be able to take out inexpensive health, accident and personal liability insurance through DAAD at your own expense.

If you have any more questions, contact DAAD's insurance office: [email protected] or +49-228-8828770.

5. Am I allowed to take on a part-time job as a scholarship holder in Germany?

Scholarship holders wishing to work part-time during their scholarship period, i.e. pursue gainful employment or an unpaid internship , always require the approval of DAAD. It is necessary that your academic supervisor or course coordinator must also give their consent.

DAAD will verify that the part-time employment does not interfere with the purpose of the scholarship. Additional income exceeding EUR 520 gross per month shall be deducted from the monthly scholarship payment.

6. I am receiving a second scholarship from provider in my home country. How does this impact my DAAD scholarship?

A second scholarship from an international provider of up to EUR 520 will not have an effect on your DAAD scholarship. If the second scholarship exceeds this amount, the excess amount shall be deducted from the DAAD scholarship.

A scholarship form another German funding organisation or another state agency in Germany may not be used at the same time as a DAAD scholarship (see also question A.11 ).

7. Some universities in Germany charge tuition fees. Do I have to pay these fees if I'm receiving a DAAD scholarship?

Yes. DAAD does not pay tuition fees for its scholarship holders. Even as a scholarship holder, you should therefore ask your chosen host university whether tuition fees are charged for your programme.

Although tuition fees are not generally charged in Germany, studying at some locations is not always free. In the federal state of Baden-Württemberg , international students from non-EU/EEA countries ( Bachelor and Master's level ) at state universities have to pay a fee of EUR 1,500 per semester. At the Technical University of Munich (TUM), fees of between 4,000 and 6,000 euros per semester will be charged for Master's degree programmes from the winter semester 2024/2025.

Private universities in all federal states may also charge tuition fees. These can vary. Both state and private universities in all federal states may also charge fees for so-called " weiterbildende Masterstudiengänge " (non-consecutive Master's degrees), that often require previous professional experience or lead to a specific additional qualification. These include, for example, the so-called LL.M degree programmes for law students. Fees for these programmes are sometimes very high so you should find out about them in advance.

8. Are there additional scholarship benefits for people with a disability or chronic illness?

Yes, in such cases you can apply for additional benefits which individually supplement the regular scholarship benefits. To do so, please contact the relevant contact person at DAAD following the scholarship selection procedure.

The prerequisite for sich a grant is that the additional costs incurred abroad are justified and necessary in order to realise the project in Germany and that these additional costs are not covered by a third party. The application is reviewed individually and the amount of the grant is determined on a case-by-case basis.

Please note: It is not necessary to specify your disability or chronic illness on the application form but under certain circumstances it may be helpful, for example if your disability negatively impacted your studies or academic achievements and this should be taken into account in the selection procedure. For more details, go to Mobility with a disability .

9. In my scholarship programme, a monthly rent subsidy may be granted if applicable. What are the requirements and what is the amount of the rent subsidy?

If you are in Germany alone, without accompanying children or spouse/registered partner , and are studying or researching in a place with particularly expensive rents ( rent levels III to VII ), you may be able to receive a monthly rent subsidy of a maximum of  EUR 350 . Whether the application is approved depends, among other things, on what portion of your scholarship you have to spend on rent and whether the accommodation is customary in the locality and appropriate. The amount of the rent subsidy depends, among other things, on the amount of the warm rent for your accommodation.

If you live together with your family (spouse or registered partner and/or children) in a flat in Germany, you can apply for a rent subsidy in any place in Germany. In this case, too, we will first check what share of your scholarship you have to spend on rent and whether the accommodation is customary in the locality and appropriate.

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