phd in germany scholarship

Ph.D scholarships in Germany for International students 2024-2025

Find Ph.D scholarships for international students to study in Germany 2024-2025.

Hertie School Doctoral Programme in Governance for International Students 2024

With a PhD obtained in Doctoral Programme in Governance, students are at the cutting edge of social science knowledge in a field that has emerged as one of the most important and dynamic fields of inquiry. It brings together perspectives from economics, political science, law, and sociology, an

Published: 19 Dec 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 Feb 2024

DAAD Research Grants – Short-Term Grants for Doctoral and Postdocs Candidates 2024

DAAD grants for doctoral candidates and young scientists and academics wishing to carry out research and continue their education in Germany for up to 6 months The primary aim of this programme is to promote research projects within the context of doctoral programmes. The scholarships are funded

Published: 06 Nov 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Mar 2024

DAAD 2023 Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany for Young Foreign Academics

DAAD research grants provide young foreign academics and scientists with an opportunity to carry out research and continue their education in Germany. There are funding programmes for various qualification phases and stages in a career. The grants also promote the exchange of experience and networki

Published: 05 Sep 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 20 Oct 2023

University Of Bonn 2023 BIGS-DR Doctoral Scholarship Program for Developing Countries

The Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) is the doctoral program at ZEF. BIGS-DR is part of a group of international graduate programs at the University of Bonn, a graduate framework that maintains the highest level of academic quality. There are two way

Published: 09 May 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 31 Aug 2023

Leibniz Institute of European History (IEG) 2024 Fellowships for Doctoral Students, Germany

These are open to PhD students from Germany and abroad who have at least a Masters level degree in history, theology or another discipline which works historically. They must have been pursuing their doctorate for no more than three years at the time of the appliaction deadline, substantiated except

Published: 04 Apr 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Aug 2023

Beyond Borders 2023 Scholarships for Different Stages of Ph.D. Research, Germany

Beyond Borders invite applications from Ph.D. students worldwide studying borders and bordering phenomena in different regions of the world for Beyond Borders Scholarships. BEYOND BORDERS supports research about borders and boundaries in past and present times. It promotes interdiscipli

Published: 16 Apr 2024 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

Beyond Borders 2023 PhD Scholarships

Beyond Borders’ invites applications from Ph.D. students worldwide studying borders and bordering phenomena in different regions of the world.  The Call for Scholarship Applications 2022 is open till 1 March 2022 and focuses on “Borders, Migration and Knowledge. ‘Beyond Bor

Published: 22 Feb 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 Mar 2023

Universität Hamburg 2023 Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School of Law

The structured PhD programme of the Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School of Law welcomes applications of graduates from both legal studies and other disciplines who are keen to produce ambitious doctoral work in an excellent research environment.

Published: 13 Feb 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Feb 2023

University of Bonn 2023 Argelander Scholarships for Doctoral Candidates from Developing Countries

Applications are open for the Argelander Scholarships for doctoral candidates from universities in the Global South. The aim is to provide funding for doctoral candidates from countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia in order to promote scientific exchange with partners, particularly in region

Published: 18 Jan 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 May 2023

DAAD 2023 Graduate School Scholarship Program for PhD Students

The Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS) invites applications for 2 scholarships for international doctoral researchers in its new Graduate School Scholarship Program “Global Dynamics of Social Policy and Social Cohesion” (GSPSC), funded by the 

Published: 07 Dec 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 23 Jan 2023

DIW Berlin 2023 FULLY FUNDED 5 Years PhD Scholarship (Germany)

DIW Berlin 2023 FULLY FUNDED 5 Years PhD Scholarship Germany. is open for International Students . The scholarship allows PhD level programm(s) in the field of Economics, Business studies taught at German Institute for Economic Research . The deadline of the scholarship is 12 Feb 2023. DIW B

Published: 23 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 12 Feb 2023

University Of Hamburg 2023 PhD Scholarship (Germany)

Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. 

Published: 21 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

Freie University Berlin China Scholarship Council Doctoral Awards in Germany 2023

One highly successful example of the university’s efforts to recruit qualified junior scientists and scholars is its work with the China Scholarship Council (CSC). As part of a special program sponsored by the Chinese government, the CSC awards about 6,000 foreign scholarships each year to Chi

Published: 17 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Jan 2023

University Of Hamburg - Doctoral Scholarships in Germany, 2022

Doctoral scholarships at Universität Hamburg Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. We are happy to assist you with any

Published: 16 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 02 Dec 2022

University of Bayreuth 2023 BIGSAS-Scholarships for African Women Scholars (Germany)

BIGSAS has been awarded two scholarships within the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for which BIGSAS will nominate candidates who have successfully passed the application procedure.  BIGSAS provides a centre for creative a

Published: 01 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Dec 2022

Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. We are happy to assist you with any questions regarding our scholarship!

Published: 03 Oct 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

DAAD United Nations University 2022 Doctoral Research Scholarship for Researchers

The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars engaged in policy-oriented research, capacity development and dissemination of knowledge in furthering the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The mission of UNU is to contribute, through research

Published: 05 Jul 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 10 Jul 2022

Universität Leipzig 2023 Joint MA & PhD Peace and Security in Africa Scholarships for African Students

Be part of a unique transnational MA & PhD experience in which you graduate from two prestigious universities in Africa and Europe. Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia and Leipzig University in Germany jointly offer a two year MA program AND a three year PhD Program that

Published: 18 May 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Feb 2023

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Top 10 PhD Scholarships in Germany for 2024-2025

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We already have more than 5000 universities’ programs on our website, so you can search and choose your best-fit programs and estimate your acceptance chances.

• Gerda Henkel Foundation PhD scholarships in Germany

Max Planck Society Research Scholarships

Fraunhofer-bessel research award, daad – phd scholarships in germany.

• Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarship For PhD

DKFZ International PhD Program in Germany

Ieg research fellowship program, heinrich böll foundation phd scholarships in germany, university of potsdam phd completion scholarships, rotary foundation global scholarship grants for development, gerda henkel foundation phd scholarships in germany.

• Eligible Nationalities: Open to all nationals
• Official website
• Up to 2 years, with a possible 1-year extension upon application.
• Basic scholarship amount
• Travel allowance for stays abroad exceeding 4 weeks
• Family grant for children under 18
• Travel and material expenses
• Applications are submitted electronically only.
• Documents must be in German or English, with a font size of 11 minimum and line spacing of 1.5.
• Research proposal (max 8 pages) + bibliography (optional)
• Schedule and work plan (max 2 pages), including necessary travel
• Detailed cost estimate for travel and materials
• Curriculum vitae (tabular format)
• Copy of university degree certificates (Master’s or relevant)
• Two expert opinions (recommendation letters)
• Incomplete applications or those missing specialist opinions will be rejected.
• Age: 28 or younger upon Master’s degree completion (exceptions considered for extenuating circumstances)
• Minimum grade: 1.5 (German grading system) or equivalent for international students

German Student Visa for Indian Students + Complete Guide 2024

• Supports outstanding international guest scientists and PhD students in optics and quantum optics.
• PhD students need a degree suitable for doctoral studies.
• The application requires a motivation letter, CV, and Master’s transcript.
• Details: tax-free, based on PhD salary, max 6 months.
• Supports professional development by connecting female researchers with leading scientists.
• Eligible: Female MPL employees with leadership potential.
• Funding: Up to 1-week stay in a European research group led by women (travel, accommodation, meals covered).
• The application requires a CV, motivation statement, chosen host group, travel timeframe, and supervisor approval.
• Deadlines: March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31.
• Supports female graduate students and postdocs in natural sciences and medicine with children.
• Provides monthly grants for childcare and household assistance.
• Applications open September 1; Deadline: November 30.

• 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 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.

DAAD Scholarship 2025 | Application Process | Fully Funded

If you are looking to study in Germany with a scholarship then this is a great opportunity for you. In this article, we will explain in detail about DAAD scholarship, its benefits, and the step-by-step application procedure.

DAAD Scholarship 2025-2026 is a fully funded scholarship for international students. This scholarship is available to pursue masters or PhD at the top German Universities. DAAD scholarships cover monthly payments of 934 euros for graduates or 1,300 euros for doctoral candidates.

Well-trained experts, who are networked with international partners, play an important part in the sustainable development of their countries. They are the best guarantee for a better future with less poverty, more education, and health for all. With its development-oriented postgraduate study programs, the DAAD promotes the training of specialists from developed and newly industrialized countries.

Also check: Chinese Government Scholarship | Step-by-Step Application Procedure

The scholarships offer foreign graduates from developed and newly industrialized countries from all disciplines the chance to take a postgraduate or Master’s degree at a state or state-recognized German university, and in exceptional cases to take a doctoral degree, and to obtain a university qualification (Master’s/PhD) in Germany.

DAAD Scholarship 2026 Summary

• Level of Study : Doctoral (PhD) / Masters
• Institution: DAAD
• Study in: Germany
• Economic Sciences, Law
• Agricultural and Forest Sciences
• Art, Design
• Engineering and Natural Sciences
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Language and Cultural Studies
• Mathematics, Natural Sciences
• Medicine, Health Sciences
• You can also see the complete list of available Postgraduate Courses .
• Program Period: Between 12 and 36 months depending on the length of the chosen study program.
• DAAD Scholarship Deadline: Depending on the chosen study program; please check  deadlines here.

DAAD Scholarship Coverage

DAAD Scholarship 2026 for Masters and PhD Germany provides the recipient with the following benefits:

• Depending on academic level, monthly payments of 934 euros for graduates or 1,300 euros for doctoral candidates.
• Travel allowance, unless these expenses are covered by the home country or another source of funding
• Payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance cover.
• One-off study allowance.

Under certain circumstances, scholarship holders may receive the following additional benefits:

• Monthly rent subsidy
• Monthly allowance for accompanying members of the family

Eligibility Criteria for DAAD Scholarship 2026

To be eligible for DAAD Scholarship 2026 for Masters and PhD Germany, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• For international programs, the language of instruction is English. You are usually required to submit an English language certificate e.g. TOEFL or IELTS.
• For other programs, the language of instruction is German. You are usually required to submit a German language certificate e.g. DSH or TestDaF.
• Eligible Countries: Click here for a list of eligible developing countries.
• Candidates have a Bachelor’s degree (usually a four-year course) or Master’s degree in an appropriate subject.
• Candidates have at least two years of professional experience.
• Candidates can prove their motivation is development-related and be expected to take on social responsibility and initiate and support processes of change in their personal and professional environment after their training/scholarship.

Also check: Fulbright Scholarship USA | Fully Funded | Application Process

How to Apply for the DAAD Scholarship 2026?

To apply for the DAAD Scholarship for a Master and PhD in Germany please follow the following step-by-step application procedure:

Can you Apply for more than one course under the DAAD scholarship?

You can apply for up to three courses. If applying to more than one course, please list courses in order of priority in the DAAD application forms (see 7. Choice of host university/institution in Germany), and do not change the priorities in the application form!

Required Documents for DAAD Scholarship 2026

• Signed DAAD application form with current date
• Personally signed CV (please use the sample europass form at http://europass.cedefop.europa.eu/) with the current date
• Personally signed Letter of Motivation (concerning current occupation and choice of postgraduate program(s), two pages maximum) with the current date. IMPORTANT: When applying for more than one postgraduate course (maximum 3 courses), you have to submit one motivation letter explaining why you are applying for these specific courses and why you chose that priority.
• Letter of recommendation from your current employer; the letter must have letterhead, a signature, and an official stamp and must be of current date (not in a sealed envelope)
• Certificate(s) of Employment from the employer(s) that proves a minimum of two years of relevant working experience (after the bachelor’s degree) at the time of application and if possible, a guarantee of re-employment from your current employer upon returning home.
• English – IELTS or TOEFL (Note: The institutional TOEFL is not accepted)
• German – Required for courses taught in German
• Copies of Academic Degrees (certified translation if necessary)
• Copies of Academic Transcripts, including grading scale (certified translation if necessary)
• Applicants from the People’s Republic of China are asked to submit an APS Certificate with their application documents.

Note: Some courses may require additional documents. For detailed information, please see the relevant course description in the Brochure and on the respective websites. The complete applications have to be submitted in English or German to be considered.

Also, apply for the Turkey Government Scholarship | Fully Funded | Application Process

Step-by-Step Application and Selection Procedure for DAAD Scholarship

• Choose suitable courses of your interest. (You can apply for a maximum of three courses)
• Apply to universities offering those courses.
• You send your complete application(s) (with the above documents) directly to the universities.
• A selection committee suggests potential candidates for a DAAD scholarship.
• The suggested candidates will be contacted by DAAD to upload their complete application to the DAAD Portal. (The link to the DAAD Portal will be provided by DAAD through email)
• The selection process will be finalized, and the suggested candidates will be informed accordingly.

Important Note: Make sure that you have a copy of each document of your application ready, as those documents (as PDF files) have to be uploaded to the DAAD Portal in case you are suggested for a DAAD scholarship!

To learn more about DAAD Scholarship for Masters and PhD Germany, please visit the official website:

Official Website

Why Study in Germany?

Why is Germany a great study destination? Located in the heart of Europe and without tuition fees, find out why Germany could be the perfect place to get your degree abroad.

1. Quality institutions

Germany is the most popular non-English-speaking study destination in the world and has some of the best-ranked universities in Western Europe. In 2020, the Times Higher Rankings placed LMU Munich in 29th position in the world, Heidelberg University in 37th place, and Humboldt University of Berlin in 49, while many other institutions are listed after 100.

Recognized for the Quality of its latest-generation teaching and facilities, the German Government is also very dedicated to higher education. German state funds research projects are carried out every year, which allows students to carry out their projects and cutting-edge research.

2. There are no tuition fees 

You may have dreamed of studying in Europe, but you are worried about how you will finance your studies. Germany may be the right place for you! Studying undergraduate in Germany is FREE. Yes, you read it right! Even as an international student, you don’t have to pay fees or tuition fees, because in Germany the registrations are free of charge.

In fact, at the end of your undergraduate studies at a German university you can be chosen to pursue a postgraduate degree that is also free. Without tuition fees, you can save extra money for accommodation, study material, socialization, and know nearby places.

3. Job Opportunities 

After graduation, international students can stay up to 18 months in Germany to look for a job, a generous amount of time compared to many other European countries, such as the United Kingdom, where they can be three months after graduation. In 2020, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) reported that about 50% of international students reside in the country after graduation, reflecting the appetite and demand to remain in the nation to work.

Universities also have excellent links with companies, which gives them an advantage in the search for internships or placements. According to the results of the Times Higher Education’s Global Employability University Ranking,

4. Quality of life

Life as a student in Germany is undoubtedly impressive. Most major German cities such as Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg are centers of culture, art, and music. There is so much to see and do, no matter what your interests, this is the perfect place to be a curious international student.

If you are interested in sports, politics, history, or art, you will find your niche market and a crowd with similar interests to yours. Due to a strong economy and infrastructure, it has reliable, safe, and fast public transport, which means that moving is very easy. During the day you can explore the impressive architecture, medieval castles, and parks and at night enjoy the great life in the main cities.

5. International environment

Germany is a breeding ground for students and international multiculturalism. With so many university studies taught in English and no tuition fees, international students from all over the world are naturally attracted to the country. Last year, more than 300,000 international students studied in the nation, and that amount is expected to increase even more. It is also located in the heart of Western Europe which allows easy access and travel to other countries in the area, where you can discover new cultures and visit places of interest.

What are you waiting for? Start your study adventure in Germany today!

8 thoughts on “DAAD Scholarship 2025 | Application Process | Fully Funded”

How can I apply ? I am trying but I didnt get any application form online

Please watch the video about application process.

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• Scholarships

Doctoral scholarships

Doctoral scholarships / , academic support.

The Studienstiftung's academic support includes summer academies, research groups, language courses, workshops and supervision by local tutors.

Financial support

The Studienstiftung offers generous financial support for Ph.D. students. Additional funds are provided for research and travel abroad.

Application

Highly qualified and socially committed PhD students may, together with their supervisors, submit an application for support for their doctoral studies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here you can find answers to frequently asked questions about requirements, application and funding concerning the Studienstiftung’s doctoral scholarships.

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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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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

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
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• 20+ Tuition Scholarships offered by Universities for International Students
• Top 10 Scholarships for Study in Any Country or Anywhere

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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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PhD in Germany: Top Universities, Admissions 2024-25, Fees, Scholarships

Veda Burman

| Updated On - Apr 30, 2024

The top PhD universities in Germany do not charge any tuition fee from international students. You might need to pay a semester fee between 100 and 325 EUR (8,900 to 28,930 INR) to pursue PhD courses in Germany. After completing a PhD degree in Germany, graduates annually earn an average salary of 69,000 EUR (61.43 lakhs INR).

Best Universities in Germany for PhD

Germany is a center for higher education, with few top-ranked yet affordable institutions offering doctoral programs. Some top PhD universities in Germany and their corresponding details are as follows:

Why Study PhD in Germany?

• In Germany, a majority of the PhD programs are tuition free, at least for the first 6 semesters. The German government sponsors these programs. You will only need to pay a minimal semester fee between 100 and 325 EUR (8,900 to 28,930 INR).
• According to UNESCO, Germany has enrolled over 28,000 Indian students including PhD scholars every year, higher than any other EU member state.
• Germany allows students to pursue doctoral programs without a masters degree. Students with a bachelors degree can directly pursue doctoral studies in Germany with satisfactory eligibility criteria.
• As a student, you can work for 120 full-days or 240 half days per year to earn extra pocket money.

PhD in Germany Admissions

The admission requirements for doctorate in Germany vary based on the chosen university and subject. The common requirement for PhD in Germany eligibility criteria for international students are listed below:

• Diploma, Magister, or Master’s degree with above-average aggregate from a recognized university
• At least 2.5 GPA in German grading system or B+ overall grade
• IELTS: 7.0 (with 6.5 in each band)
• TOEFL iBT: 80 - 100
• German language proficiency proof: TestDaf: Level 4
• GRE: 160 overall score or above
• Germany student visa

PhD in Germany Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility criteria for admission to the PhD programs in various German universities are as follows:

PhD in Germany Cost

The German universities do not charge any tuition fee for PhD programs. You might need to pay a semester fee between 100 and 325 EUR (8,900 to 28,930 INR) across some universities. Besides, you can estimate to spend around 850 EUR per month as the cost of living in Germany . Following are some top-ranked universities and their respective fees:

PhD in Germany Scholarships

Although the doctoral programs in Germany are fully funded, candidates are still required to make the ends meet and bear the living costs. Therefore, such candidates may look forward to the following scholarships in Germany :

PhD in Germany Salary

Students with PhD in Germany secure an average salary of 69,000 EUR per annum. The average salary of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) ranges between 45,000 to 94,000 EUR per annum. Doctor of Science (DS) degree holders annually earn between 42,000 to 120,000 EUR. The average salary of doctoral candidates pursuing jobs in Germany according to their levels of experience are as follows:

Note: The stage duration (time spent) of each of the 6 levels of experience increases by 1 year per stage. The contractual term at first level is at least 12 months with no interruption.

PhD in Germany is pursued by international students for a combination of benefits. The top public universities in Germany offer tuition-free education, removing the financial burden from students. You can get research opportunities from industry experts in Germany. After completing education, you can get employed as research associate for Postdoc positions in German higher education institutions.

Ques. Is it free to do PhD in Germany for Indian students?

Ans . Yes. The public universities in Germany offer PhD programs without any tuition fees. The universities might charge a minimal semester fee to Indian students. You can estimate to pay between 100 and 325 EUR (8,900 to 28,930 INR) as semester fees in the German universities for pursuing a PhD program.

Ques. Do PhD students get paid in Germany?

Ans . Yes, some German universities provide financial support to PhD students through grants, stipends, and scholarships. You can also pursue part-time jobs while pursuing PhD, with permission from your university to earn some pocket money.

Ques. How many years is a PhD in Germany?

Ans . PhD programs in Germany can be around 5 years long or more. However, PhD in Germany is available within 3 years span across some universities. According to experts, the average time taken for PhD in Germany ranges between 3 and 4 years.

Ques. Is it easy to get PhD in Germany?

Ans . No. PhD in Germany requires you to be involved in research and activities on a particular subject or multiple subjects. The entry requirements for PhD programs in Germany for international students vary with the university and specialization. The most important requirements for admission to PhD in Germany are as follows:

• IELTS : 7.0 (with 6.5 in each band)
• German Proficiency proof: TestDaf: Level 4
• GRE Score: 160 overall score or above
• Germany Student Visa

Ques. Is a PhD in Germany taught in German?

Ans . PhD in Germany is taught in both the languages, German and English. You can choose the university and specialisation, based on the proficiency of language. If possible, German language proficiency is recommended to enhance your chances of securing admission to your dream university.

Ques. Can I pursue PhD in Germany without a Master’s degree?

Ans . PhD in Germany can be pursued by exceptionally performing Bachelor’s degree graduates. Moreover, candidates possessing an international Graduate Diploma with 2.5 or more GPA may also apply.

Ques. Is German PhD valid in India?

Ans . Yes. PhD degrees offered by prestigious universities in Germany are valid in India. You can pursue a faculty post in the Indian universities with a PhD from Germany. You can also look for postdoc opportunities or suitable employment opportunities for you with a PhD from Germany.

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We have 53 PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Germany

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PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Germany

Phd position in food web models: development of plankton sub-units in food web models of the north sea (m/f/d), 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 student (m/f/d)

Phd student position in cellular immunology, phd positions (f/m/x) in data science, 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.

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, metabolism and prostate cancer plasticity, correlation of the conformational dynamics of eif4a with the dependence of translation efficiencies of mrnas on eif4a, 4b, and 4g in saccharomyces cerevisiae, phd student (f/m/d) in the field of root anatomy, phd student (f/m/d) in the field of root anatomy physiology, phd position (f/m/d) in biophysics of biomolecular condensates, photocatalysis by metal mabiq complexes.

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Funding of Doctoral Candidates

Below you will find information on funding opportunities for your doctoral project. We are also happy to offer you comprehensive personal consultation on how to fund your project.

An overview of funding opportunities can also be found in the brochure on financing the doctorate offered on Humboldt Graduate School's website.

Full-time PhD scholarships

• Elsa-Neumann-Scholarship
• Yousef Jameel Scholarship
• Other full-time scholarships (organizations for the promotion of young talent, "Begabtenförderwerke")
• DAAD Research Grants (maximum of 4 years)

Short-term or partial PhD scholarships

• Humboldt Research Track Scholarship (promoting transition from Master’s to doctorate)
• Fellowship for Completion of Degree (international doctoral candidates)
• DAAD One-Year Grants
• DAAD STIBET scholarship (maximum of 6 months)
• DAAD grants for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle
• HU International (mobility funding, e.g. ERASMUS)

Short-term or partial scholarships for female doctoral students

• Christiane Nüsslein-Volhard Foundation (funds for additional childcare and domestic help)
• Caroline von Humboldt Grant Programme   (Completion Scholarship)

Search for scholarships

• Research in Germany – Funding Databases
• ELFI (information brokerage system for funding opportunities, german only)

Funding through structured programmes

• DAAD Research Grants – Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP)
• Structured Doctoral Programs at Humboldt-Universität
• Berlin Doctoral Programs
• DFG Research Training Groups

Funding through a research staff position

• Vacancies for early career researches at Humboldt-Universität
• Academic Jobs in Berlin and Brandenburg

Funding for publications

• Funding opportunities for Open Access by the Universitätsbibliothek

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PhD and postdoc positions in theory of distributed algorithms

One or more PhD and postdoc positions are available in the research group of Sebastian Brandt (https://scbrandt.github.io/), which is part of the Algorithms & Theory branch at CISPA Helmholtz

PhD / Doctorate •

: any time Application deadline You can join our graduate school any time after you have begun your PhD . We are especially happy to welcome you at the very beginning of your PhD journey. Tuition fees per

Degree Doctor of Philosophy ( PhD ) in Medical Research – Cardiovascular Science Teaching language English Languages Courses are held in English only. PhD theses are written only in English. Full-time

Degree PhD , Dr In cooperation with TU Munich Teaching language English Languages Participants can fulfil requirements in English only, but some German courses are available. Full-time / part-time

Degree Dr phil PhD Medical Research Dr med Dr rer nat In cooperation with DFG Teaching language German Languages The working language of the programme is German, so a German course is recommended

Degree Dr rer nat ( PhD of natural sciences) In cooperation with TU Munich Teaching language English Languages All talks, research and supervision happens in an English-speaking environment. Full

Degree PhD in Global Studies In cooperation with Institute for Peace and Security Studies (IPSS), Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia) Teaching language English Languages The PhD courses are taught

Degree Dr rer nat / PhD Teaching language English Languages The scientific language in all UMG laboratories and doctoral programmes is English. However, knowledge of German naturally makes everyday

Additional information on beginning, duration and mode of study Frankfurt School confers a Dr rer pol, the German equivalent of a PhD . The School offers fully-funded study places and a generous monthly stipend

Application deadline There is no application deadline for this programme. Tuition fees per semester in EUR None Combined Master's degree / PhD programme No Joint degree / double degree programme No Description

Searches related to PhD

• engineering
• postdoctoral
• medical sciences
• materials science
• computer science
• environment

Numerous Fully Funded PhD Positions Across Europe for International Students

Over 25 Fully Funded PhD Positions Await International Students!

Are you eager to begin an exceptional academic journey in Europe? 🇦🇹, 🇧🇪, 🇩🇰, 🇩🇪, 🇫🇷, 🇬🇧, 🇬🇷, 🇭🇺, 🇮🇪, 🇮🇸, 🇱🇺, 🇳🇱, 🇳🇴, 🇪🇸, 🇨🇭

Your opportunity is here! We are thrilled to announce that more than 25 fully funded PhD positions are available for international students who aspire to pursue their PhD studies at leading European institutions, including:

🇬🇷 Institute of Astrophysics - FORTH

🇦🇹 Graz University of Technology

🇩🇰 University of Copenhagen

🇭🇺 University of Pannonia

🇩🇪 Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften ISAS

🇳🇴 NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology

🇮🇸 Reykjavik University

🇳🇱 Stichting Deltares

🇪🇸 IMDEA Networks Institute

🇨🇭 Zürcher Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaft

🇬🇧 Swansea University

🇱🇺 Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology

🇳🇴 UiT The Arctic University of Norway

🇧🇪 Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)

🇦🇹 AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH

🇩🇪 Fraunhofer ICT

🇫🇷 University of Strasbourg

🇮🇪 University of Limerick

🇦🇹 St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung

🇳🇴 University of South-Eastern Norway

🇩🇪 Leibniz-Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research

🇩🇪 Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg

Apply now for the following doctoral (PhD) studies in diverse fields at esteemed European universities:-

PhD Student in Multimessenger observations of TDEs, Institute of Astrophysics - FORTH (Greece)

PhD Student in Engineering Enzymes for the Removal of Toxic C-F Containing Compounds, Graz University of Technology (Austria)

PhD fellowship in computational and mathematical modelling of flow and fracture in ice sheets, University of Copenhagen (Denmark)

PhD Student in Material Science, Physics and Environmental Sciences, University of Pannonia (Hungary)

PhD Student in Analysis of Microscopic BIOMedical Images (AMBIOM), Leibniz-Institut für Analytische Wissenschaften - ISAS - e.V. (Germany)

PhD Student in Compiler Technologies, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway)

PhD Student in AI-guided Discovery and Prediction of Novel Enzymes in Microbiomes of Different Habitats, Graz University of Technology (Austria)

PhD Student in Climate Change, Finance, and Sustainability, Reykjavik University (Iceland)

PhD Student in marine sustainability and conservation for European waters, Stichting Deltares (Netherlands)

PhD Student in blockchain and peer-to-peer networks, IMDEA Networks Institute (Spain)

PhD Student in Electrochemical double layer and meso-scale modelling, Zürcher Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaft (Switzerland)

PhD Student in Advanced Optoelectronic & Microelectronic Glass at Swansea University, Swansea University (United Kingdom)

PhD Student in Piezoelectric Sensors, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (Luxembourg)

PhD Fellow in Optics – Quantitative phase microscopy and Tomography, UiT The Arctic University of Norway (Norway)

PhD Student in Transmembrane transport studies in artificial systems, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB) (Belgium)

PhD Student in Digital Twins for Transportation, AIT Austrian Institute of Technology GmbH (Austria)

PhD Student in Automated potentio-dynamic electrochemical characterization, Fraunhofer ICT (Germany)

PhD Student in MRI-based cavitation control for ultrasound-induced drug delivery, 

University of Strasbourg (France)

PhD Student in Aging Models and Reliability of Extruded HVDC Cables for Offshore Power, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway)

PhD Student in Catalysis for Renewable Feedstock Valorisation, University of Limerick (Ireland)

PhD Student in Pediatric Cancer Initiation, St. Anna Kinderkrebsforschung e.V. (Austria)

PhD Student in Vertical Multi-Purpose Farming Robotic System, Swansea University (United Kingdom)

PhD Fellow in Cybersecurity, University of South-Eastern Norway (Norway)

PhD Student in the field of Root Anatomy, Leibniz-Institute for Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (Germany)

PhD Student in Surface Acoustic Wave Strain Sensor, Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (Luxembourg)

PhD Student in digital twins for 6G mobile networks, IMDEA Networks Institute (Spain)

PhD Student in molecular dynamics simulation in mineral processing, NTNU Norwegian University of Science and Technology (Norway)

PhD Student in FAME consortium, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (Germany)

PhD Fellow in Human factors in remotely operated and autonomous maritime vessels, 

UiT The Arctic University of Norway (Norway)

#EURAXESSAfrica #PhD #DoctoralStudy #DoctoralPositions #PhDPositions #PhDStudy #Europe #EU #StudyInEurope #HigherEducation #InternationalStudents #ResearchOpportunities #FORTH #GrazUniversityofTechnology #UniversityofCopenhagen #UniversityofPannonia #LSAS #NTNU #ReykjavikUniversity #StichtingDeltares #IMDEANetworksInstitute #ZürcherHochschulefürangewandteWissenschaft  #SwanseaUniversity #LuxembourgInstituteofScienceandTechnology #UiT #ULB #AIT #FraunhoferICT #UniversityofStrasbourg #UniversityofLimerick #St_AnnaKinderkrebsforschung #UniversityofSouthEasternNorway #LeibnizInstituteforPlantGeneticsandCropPlantResearch #FriedrichAlexanderUniversitätErlangenNürnberg 

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Average PHD Stipend in Germany for Indian Students in 2024-2025

• Last Updated On August 22, 2024
• Published In General

Pursuing a PhD in Germany presents an exciting opportunity for international students, drawn by the country’s renowned academic standards, advanced research facilities, and welcoming atmosphere. 

Table of Content

As an appealing destination for scholars, Germany currently hosts over 43,000 Indian students, marking a 100% increase over the last five years. 

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However, understanding the PhD stipend in Germany is essential for planning your academic journey. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know, from average stipend amounts to funding opportunities for Indian students and tips on managing your living expenses effectively.

Before getting started, here are some of the key details of the blog. 

PhD Stipend in Germany for Indian Students

Germany is one of the few countries where most PhD students do not pay tuition fees. As an international student, you’ll receive funding through a stipend. The PhD stipend in Germany varies by funding type, study field, and university. 

Typically, the average PhD stipend in Germany is INR 22.5L (EUR 24.5k) per year, which is sufficient to cover your living expenses.

In addition to pursuing a PhD, you can intern at public or private organisations, typically earning an average salary of INR 46.1k (EUR 500) per month .

For Indian students, the PhD stipend in Germany is handsome due to the relatively low cost of living compared to other Western nations. 

You’ll receive the same PhD stipend in Germany per month as other international students, which allows for a comfortable lifestyle. Here is a table showcasing the various funding sources available to PhD students in Germany.

Types of PhD in Germany

In Germany, you have two main options for pursuing a PhD, depending on your field, research interests, and circumstances. 

The Individual Doctorate involves conducting independent research under the supervision of a single professor. Over 75% of doctoral students in Germany choose this traditional route. 

Alternatively, structured PhD programmes offer a more structured approach than those in English-speaking countries. These programmes involve supervision by a team and attendance at courses, lectures, and seminars alongside other doctoral students. They are typically publicly advertised and may include grants or paid postgraduate positions.

Eager to discover the advantages of pursuing a PhD in Germany? Dive into the compelling reasons below!

Benefits of Doing a PhD in Germany

Germany is an increasingly popular destination for PhD studies, offering a wealth of advantages that make it attractive to international students. Whether you’re drawn by the PhD stipend in Germany, the high quality of life, or the research opportunities, Germany provides an environment where you can thrive academically and personally.

Here are some of the key benefits of pursuing a PhD in Germany.

1. World-Class Education and Research

In the 2023 Global Innovation Index, Germany was ranked 8th out of 132 economies, demonstrating strong performance, particularly in innovation outputs, which secured the 6th position. 

Germany is home to some of the world’s leading universities and research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and Helmholtz Centres, which are known for their academic excellence and innovation. 

Explore all countries

2. no tuition fees.

One of the most compelling reasons to pursue a PhD in Germany is the absence of tuition fees at public universities. This allows you to focus on your research without the financial burden of tuition. A PhD stipend in Germany typically covers your living expenses, making it a financially viable option for many international students.

3. Generous Funding and Scholarships

Over 85% of survey respondents rely primarily on research project funding, while the remaining 15% depend on other income sources like relatives. Germany offers various funding opportunities for PhD students, including scholarships from organisations like the DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and Humboldt Foundation. 

These scholarships often cover your living expenses, health insurance, and travel costs.

4. Internationally Recognised Degree

A PhD from a German university is highly respected worldwide. The rigorous training, research experience, and academic prestige associated with German institutions open doors to global career opportunities. Employers and academic institutions worldwide recognise the value of a German PhD.

5. Thriving Research Environment

Germany offers a collaborative and dynamic research environment. You’ll work with leading researchers and engage in international conferences and workshops, boosting your research skills and career prospects. For example, The International Max Planck Research Schools further enhance your experience with advanced training and a robust research network.

6. High Quality of Life

According to the Global Peace Index, Germany is the 15th most peaceful country in the world. It offers a high standard of living, with excellent healthcare, public transportation, and cultural experiences. 

Cities like Berlin, Munich, and Heidelberg are known for their rich history, diverse communities, and vibrant student life. Despite the high quality of life, the cost of living is relatively affordable, especially compared to other Western European countries.

7. Post-Study Work Opportunities

As the third largest economy in the world, Germany offers numerous opportunities in academia, research, and industry. PhD graduates can stay in the country for up to 18 months after completing their degree to look for a job, and with a high employment rate for PhD graduates, you’re well-positioned to start your career in Germany.

8. Gateway to Europe

Germany’s central location in Europe makes it an ideal base for exploring other European countries. As a student in Germany, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, broadening your cultural and academic horizons.

Also Read: What are the benefits of studying in Germany?

Now that you’ve seen the many benefits of pursuing a PhD in Germany, it’s time to explore the top universities that can make your academic journey truly exceptional. Read on!

Top 5 Universities in Germany for PhD

A fact worth noting is that Germany has 9 universities ranked in the top 200 QS World Ranking 2025, including the Technical University of Munich and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich. Fun fact? Most universities do not even charge tuition fees to pursue a PhD.

Germany is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, offering top-notch research facilities and academic programs. These universities consistently rank among the best globally, making them ideal for pursuing a PhD. 

Here is a table showcasing the top 5 universities in Germany for PhD and their QS World University Rankings for 2025 and the average fees for PhD.

Also Read: Which are the top German Universities with high acceptance rates in 2024?

Discover the best PhD options in Germany, from top universities to vital application tips. With LeapScholar’s expert guidance, you’ll confidently steer every step, ensuring your dream of studying in Germany becomes a reality. Get in touch with Leap Scholar today !

Next, check out the basic admission requirements to enrol in a PhD program in Germany.

Basic Admission Requirements

Did you know that over 28,000 graduate students earn their doctorate in Germany each year? This makes Germany the leader in doctoral completions among EU member states. Approximately 5,800 international scholars receive their doctoral degrees from German universities annually.

You will need to submit the following documents.

• A Statement from Your Doctoral Supervisor
• Academic Documents: A valid master’s degree (from a recognised university)
• Academic References: At least two references from professors familiar with your academic work.
• Statement of Purpose

Here is a table showcasing the English language proficiency test scores. 

Since education is free, Germany offers various scholarships to ease your research and living expenses. The next section will discuss some options!

PhD Scholarships in Germany

Germany offers various scholarships for PhD students, primarily through organisations like the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). DAAD supports over 1,00,000 students annually, making it one of the largest scholarship providers worldwide. 

These scholarships cover your living expenses and include health insurance and travel allowances.

DAAD scholarships are highly competitive and sought after by international PhD students. They include a PhD stipend in Germany per month and often cover additional costs like an annual research allowance of INR 42.4k (EUR 460) and health insurance. 

Here is a table showcasing some popular scholarships for PhD students in Germany.

Also Read: Scholarship for Germany: Popular Scholarship and Tips to Apply

Upon completing your PhD in Germany, a wealth of research and job opportunities will be waiting for you. Explore them in the upcoming sections!

Research Opportunities After PhD in Germany

Germany is a global leader in research, offering numerous postdoctoral opportunities. These positions come with competitive salaries and access to world-class research facilities.

International Max Planck Research Schools are structured PhD programs jointly offered by Max Planck Institutes and universities in Germany. They provide a platform for talented young scientists to conduct research and earn a doctorate under excellent conditions.

The Max Planck Society, with 31 Nobel Laureates among the ranks of its scientists, is among the best and most prestigious research institutions worldwide.

Job Opportunities After PhD in Germany

Germany is home to one of the largest economies in the world, offering abundant job opportunities for PhD graduates. A fact worth noting is that in Germany, the unemployment rate significantly dropped for individuals holding a doctorate, with only 3.2% unemployed compared to the national average of 8.6%.

Starting salaries typically range from (EUR 60k to EUR 70k)  annually, depending on your field of study and the industry.

Here is a table showcasing the average starting salaries across different job profiles in Germany.

Here is a list of the highest-paying jobs in Germany after you complete your PhD.

Jobs in academia, industry, and research institutes are widely available. The German job market is known for its focus on research and development, making it an ideal destination for PhD graduates.

Also Read: Steps to Finding a Job in Germany for Indians

Next, read about the top recruiters in Germany.

Top Recruiters & Salary After PhD in Germany

Germany hosts several top-tier companies and research institutions eager to hire PhD graduates. Germany spends about 3% of its GDP on advanced research and development, which is among the highest in the world. This investment translates into numerous opportunities for PhD holders.

Here is a table showcasing some of the top recruiters and their starting salaries.

These organisations offer competitive salaries and provide a platform to work on cutting-edge research projects. Siemens AG, for example, hires hundreds of PhD graduates each year, particularly in engineering and technology.

Does your PhD stipend in Germany cover your Cost of Living?

The cost of living in Germany is relatively low compared to other European countries. Germany consistently ranks as one of the most affordable countries for international students. The average stipend for PhD students in Germany generally covers all essential expenses, even in major cities. 

Germany offers an appealing advantage for budget-conscious students- affordability! Compared to other European nations, the cost of living in Germany can be significantly more economical.

Accommodation is one of the most critical factors impacting your budget. Pursuing your PhD in Germany allows you to find comfortable and affordable housing options without overspending.

You could save nearly 27.3% on rent compared to France and 7.5% compared to the UK.

Here’s a breakdown of essential monthly expenses, including student housing, food, transportation, and miscellaneous costs for living in Germany.

With careful budgeting, the PhD stipend in Germany per month can comfortably cover your living costs, allowing you to focus on your studies and research.

Germany is a premier destination for PhD studies, offering attractive stipends, scholarships, and ample research opportunities. The average PhD stipend in Germany is around INR 22.5L (EUR 24.5k) per year, generally covering living expenses. The financial support and the absence of tuition fees make it an appealing choice for international students, including those from India.

In addition to the stipend, numerous scholarships, such as those from the DAAD and Humboldt Foundation, provide extra financial aid, including health insurance and travel allowances. With its strong academic reputation and vibrant research environment, Germany offers a conducive setting for pursuing a PhD while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle.

Ready to become a research scientist in Germany? With over 3,000 expert counsellors, LeapScholar provides end-to-end guidance. From university selection to crafting the perfect SOP, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared to secure your PhD spot at a top university in Germany. Contact Leap Scholar Today !

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. what is the average phd stipend in germany.

A. The average PhD stipend in Germany is approximately INR 22.5L (EUR 24.5k) per year. This stipend is generally sufficient to cover living expenses, including rent, food, and transportation.

The financial support provided allows PhD students to focus on their research without the need for additional part-time work. However, many students supplement their income through internships or teaching assistantships.

Q. How much is the PhD stipend in Germany per month?

A. The PhD stipend in Germany per month varies depending on the funding source, typically between INR 1.1L (EUR 1.3k) and INR 4.2L (EUR 4.6k). This monthly stipend covers essential living costs such as accommodation, utilities, and groceries

Q. Is the PhD stipend in Germany sufficient for living expenses?

A. Yes, the stipend for PhD students in Germany is generally sufficient to cover all necessary living expenses. With the average cost of living being relatively low compared to other European countries, the stipend typically covers rent, food, transportation, and other essentials. 

Q. What is the PhD stipend in Germany for Indian students?

A. The PhD stipend in Germany for Indian students is the same as for other international students, averaging around INR 22.5L (EUR 24.5k) per year. This stipend supports a comfortable lifestyle, covering accommodation, food, and other living expenses. 

Q. Can I work while receiving a PhD stipend in Germany?

A. Yes, you can work while receiving a PhD stipend in Germany. Many students choose to intern at public or private organisations, typically earning an additional monthly salary of around INR 46.1k (EUR 500).

Q. What are the top funding sources for PhD students in Germany?

A. The top funding sources for PhD students in Germany include university research projects, DAAD scholarships, private foundations, and internships. Monthly stipends from these sources range from INR 1.1L (EUR 1.3k) to INR 4.2L (EUR 4.6k). These funds are typically designed to cover your living costs, health insurance, and other essential expenses.

Q. Are there scholarships available alongside the PhD stipend in Germany?

A. Yes, several scholarships are available alongside the PhD stipend in Germany, such as those offered by the DAAD, Heinrich Böll Foundation, and Humboldt Foundation. These scholarships provide additional financial support, including a monthly stipend, health insurance, and travel allowances.

Q. How does the PhD stipend in Germany compare to other countries?

A. The PhD stipend in Germany is highly competitive, especially considering the absence of tuition fees and the lower cost of living compared to other Western European nations. While the stipend may be comparable to other countries, the overall financial package is often more attractive due to the cost savings associated with living in Germany.

Q. What is the average PhD stipend in Germany for research positions?

A. The average PhD stipend in Germany for research positions is around INR 1.8L (EUR 2k) per month. This funding generally comes from university research projects and is intended to cover all living expenses and research-related costs. Research positions are often fully funded, and the stipend allows students to engage in their studies without financial stress.

Q. Do all PhD students in Germany receive a stipend?

A. Most PhD students in Germany receive a stipend, mainly if they are involved in funded research projects or have secured scholarships. The stipend usually ranges from INR 1.1L (EUR 1.3k) to INR 4.2L (EUR 4.6k) per month, covering the cost of living and enabling students to dedicate themselves to their research full-time.

Q. Is the PhD stipend in Germany taxable?

A. The PhD stipend in Germany is generally not taxable, especially from scholarships or university research funding. This allows students to use the stipend for living and research expenses without worrying about income tax deductions.

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La Trobe University - University of Bayreuth Joint PhD Program Scholarship

$34000 Per annum, for three and a half years. Fee relief additional.

Opening date

Closing date, who is it for.

Future PhD candidates, Australian Citizen, New Zealand Citizen, Permanent Resident

Where is it available?

Bendigo Campus, Melbourne Campus

How is it paid?

Fortnightly stipend

La Trobe University is offering a graduate research scholarship for a student to undertake a joint PhD with Bayreuth University, Germany.

Applications for this scholarship are now open to Australian or New Zealand citizens or Australian permanent residents. The application deadline is 31 October 2024.

Students undertaking the joint PhD program will be enrolled in a PhD at both institutions. Your supervisory team will comprise of academic staff from both institutions who will provide support and guidance throughout your research. As a student enrolled at both La Trobe and Bayreuth, you will have access to services and support provided by both institutions, including a range of professional and personal development programs.

You will begin your studies at La Trobe University where you will spend the majority of your time, but with an expectation that you will spend typically 12 months at Bayreuth University. Travel to and study at the host institution will be subject to the usual immigration requirements.

The joint PhD includes a tailored program of progress monitoring to fulfil the requirements of both institutions. All candidates will write and submit a thesis for defence by oral examination. On successful completion of the program requirements, you will be awarded a PhD jointly by both institutions.

The successful applicant can commence at any time from 1 February and 1 July 2025, at a La Trobe University campus, and willing to spend typically 12 months based in Bayreuth, Germany.

Available project

There is a single joint PhD scholarships available to applicants, competitively awarded with selection is based on academic merit and suitability to the selected project. Please contact the lead supervisor listed for more information.

Project: Understanding the Burden of Anterior Knee Pain in Recreational Cyclists (UB-24072)

Lead supervisor: Dr Rodrigo Bini

Other supervisors: Dr Danilo De Oliveira Silva (LTU), Dr Jan Wilke (UB)

The aim of the project is to investigate the experiences of cyclists with knee pain including burden and symptoms and to compare the cycling biomechanics of those with and without knee pain. The project will also aim to co-design an intervention in conjunction with cyclists and clinicians to optimise cycling mechanics and loading on the body to prevent knee pain.

Benefits of the scholarship

• a stipend for up to three and a half (3.5) years, with a value of $34,000 per annum (2024 rate)
• a  Research Training Program - Fees Offset scholarship covering tuition fees for up to four (4) years.
• a travel allowance to assist with travel between Melbourne and Bayreuth and personal expenses while resident in Germany
• an allowance to relocate to Melbourne to commence the degree and publication/thesis allowance or RTP allowance
• opportunities to work with outstanding researchers at La Trobe and Bayreuth universities, and have access to our suite of professional development programs.

Are you eligible to apply?

To be eligible to apply for this scholarship, applicants must:.

• meet the  Doctor of Philosophy  entry requirements
• not be receiving another scholarship greater than 75 per cent of the stipend rate for the same purpose
• be an Australian or New Zealand citizen or Australian permanent resident

In selecting successful applicants, we prioritise applications from candidates who:

• will be enrolled full-time
• have completed a Masters by Research or other significant body of research, such as an honours research thesis or lead authorship of a peer-reviewed publication, assessed at a La Trobe Masters by research standard of 75 or above

How to apply

Applicants should follow the following steps to apply to La Trobe University. Selected applicants will then be invited to subsequently apply for admission into the PhD program at University of Bayreuth.

• review the scholarship eligibility requirements above
• contact the nominated lead supervisor to obtain their in-principle agreement for you to apply
• review and follow the steps in how to apply for candidature and submit your application by 31 October 2024
• when prompted during the application, select the 'Graduate Research - End-of-year Scholarship Round' and indicate the relevant project code as listed above (UB-24072)

Who to contact for further information

Graduate Research School, [email protected]

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Top 14 Scholarships in Germany

• Scholarship Opportunities for Indian Students in Germany in 2024 

Masters Scholarship in Germany

Master your study abroad experience with our free courses, top 14 fully funded scholarships in germany for international students.

Germany is highly regarded for academic excellence and attracts scholars from around the world with its fully funded scholarship opportunities.

In 2024, 14 prestigious scholarships are available to international students, covering various academic fields and research interests.

These masters scholarship in Germany not only provide financial support but also promote academic excellence and cross-cultural exchange. Let’s explore the top 14 fully funded scholarships in Germany for international students, each offering unique opportunities for aspiring scholars.

But before that we recommend you to explore our blog post on ‘ How to Get a Scholarship to Study in Germany in 2024 ,’ and find out the pathway to your scholarship success!

 1. DAAD Scholarships

What does the scholarship cover? DAAD scholarships offer dive­rse financial assistance for students, re­searchers, and academics globally. This support include­s study scholarships, research grants, internships, and more­. The programs cater to a wide range­ of educational and academic nee­ds, providing opportunities for individuals from various backgrounds to further their studie­s or research.

• Be­nefits: Perks could include monthly allowances, travel funds, health coverage, and language training fees – continge­nt upon the specific program.
• Deadline: Application cutoff dates differ based on the scholarship or program. Hopefuls must consult DAAD’s website for the latest timeline.
• Eligibility criteria: Requirements also fluctuate per program, but generally, candidates prove academic prowess, submit robust research/study proposals, and meet language­ proficiency prerequisites.

2. Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships

What does the scholarship cover? It financially assists international learners in Ge­rmany. Students can get money for unde­rgraduate, graduate, and doctoral studies.

• Be­nefits: The scholarship pays tuition costs, monthly living costs, and possibly extra funds for ite­ms like books, travel expe­nses, etc.
• Deadline­: Applications usually close in spring or early summer, be­fore the next school ye­ar starts. Check the foundation’s site for e­xact dates.
• Eligibility criteria: You must care about social and e­nvironmental issues. Maintain great acade­mic records. Know German well.

3. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarship

What does the­ scholarship cover? The KAS program assists students and doctoral candidate­s in Germany. The scholarship covers tuition costs, living e­xpenses, health insurance­, and travel expenditure­s.

• Benefits: Beyond financial backing, KAS give­s scholars opportunities to network and partake in se­minars and events held by the­ foundation.
• Deadline: The due­ date changes based on the­ type of scholarship and level of study. Applicants must look at the­ KAS website for specific de­adlines.
• Eligibility criteria: To qualify, you nee­d excellent acade­mics, a commitment to democracy, social responsibility, and fluent German language skills.

4. Deutschlandstipendium

What the scholarship covers ? The Deutschlandstipendium provides financial support to highly talented and motivated students in Germany, regardless of their nationality.

• Benefits: Recipients receive a monthly stipend of 300 euros, half of which is funded by private donors and the other half by the German government.
• Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the university. Interested students should check with their institution for specific deadlines.
• Eligibility criteria: Eligibility criteria vary by university but generally include academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal achievements. 

5. Konrad-Zuse-Foundation Scholarship

DAAD grants offer nume­rous financial assistance types to learne­rs, researchers, and acade­mics globally. This covers educational funds, rese­arch backing, internship programs, etc.

What does the­ scholarship cover? The Konrad-Zuse-Foundation scholarship aids doctoral candidate­s studying computer science and linke­d disciplines.

• Benefits : It provide­s monetary help for living costs, rese­arch expenses, and atte­nding conferences.
• De­adline: Application deadlines usually fall in the spring or e­arly summer months. Candidates must check the­ foundation’s site for precise date­s.
• Eligibility criteria: Applicants require an e­xceptional academic record in compute­r science or allied fie­ld, pursuing a doctoral degree at a Ge­rman university.

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6. Humboldt Research Fellowship

What does the­ scholarship cover? This fellowship opportunity gives high-quality postdocs from around the­ globe great support.

• Bene­fits: Those selecte­d get cash rewards each month. Plus, they re­ceive funds for travel, language­ classes, and other bene­fits.
• Deadline: The­ final date depends on your country and fie­ld. Check the foundation’s site to know the­ cutoff for your situation.
• Eligibility criteria: You must have a doctorate or e­qual research background. A robust proposal and endorse­ment from a German host place are­ needed too.

7. The Max Planck Institute for Foreign and International Criminal Law Scholarship

What does the­ scholarship cover ? This fellowship opportunity gives high-quality postdocs from around the­ globe great support.

• Deadline: When the­ final date is depends on your nation and fie­ld. Check the foundation’s site to know the­ cutoff for your situation.

8. Marie Curie International Incoming Fellowships

9. einstein foundation berlin.

What does the­ scholarship cover ? The Einstein Foundation Be­rlin provides varied funding chances. This include­s fellowships and grants for excelle­nt researchers.

• Be­nefits: Advantages differ by program. Ye­t, they might comprise rese­arch project financing, travel costs, and confere­nce participation funding.
• Deadline: Cutoff date­s are program-specific. Intere­sted applicants must verify the foundation’s we­bsite for exact timeline­s.
• Eligibility criteria : Entry requireme­nts depend on the program. The­y typically involve exceptional acade­mics and a compelling research proposal.

10. Hans Böckler Foundation Scholarships

What does the scholarship cover? Pursuing research on economics, sociology, or related areas. The ­ Hans Böckler Foundation scholarships back doctoral candidates.

• Benefits: You get mone­y for living costs, research nee­ds, and attending meetings. The­ scholarship aids with these expe­nses.
• Deadline: Apply in spring or e­arly summertime. Check the­ foundation website for exact date­s. Don’t miss the yearly cutoff!
• Eligibility criteria: Ste­llar grades in economics, sociology, or similar fields are­ key. You must be enrolle­d in a doctoral program at a German university too.

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11. Scholarship from the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation

What does the­ scholarship cover ? Students and doctoral candidates de­dicated to social justice and political engage­ment can receive­ scholarships from the Rosa Luxemburg Foundation .

• Bene­fits : Tuition fees, living costs, and rese­arch expenses are­ covered through financial assistance.
• De­adline: The deadline­ varies per scholarship program, so applicants must check the­ foundation’s website for specific date­s.
• Eligibility criteria: Academic exce­llence, an unwavering commitme­nt to social justice, and involvement in political or social move­ments are require­d.

12. Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies (BIGSAS) Scholarship

What does the­ scholarship cover? Scholarships from BIGSAS assist doctoral candidates. They study African Studie­s topics. Their research ge­ts funded.

• Benefits: Living costs are­ included. Tuition fees ge­t paid too. Research expe­nses receive­ coverage.
• Deadline­: The deadline lands in springtime­ or early summer gene­rally. Checking the exact time­line on BIGSAS’s website prove­s wise. It prevents missing the­ application period.

13. Erasmus Scholarship Programs in Germany 

The Erasmus software stands as one of the European Union’s flagship tasks, selling global cooperation in training, training, youngsters, and sports. Among its various components, Erasmus scholarships offer worthwhile opportunities for students to look at, teach, and gain global experience in partner countries. In Germany, Erasmus scholarship packages play a considerable function in fostering educational exchange and cultural enrichment for each German and worldwide student alike.

These scholarships facilitate scholar mobility, permitting them to observe at German universities, gain sensible revel in through internships, or take part in joint studies tasks. 

• It provides financial support that covers diverse fees, including tour fees, training prices, and living prices.
• It fosters cultural change and knowledge by bringing together college students from various cultural backgrounds.
• Students interested in Erasmus scholarships in Germany must first look at their domestic organization to see if it participates in the Erasmus program. They can then inquire regarding the eligibility and rest.  

14. Bayer Foundations

• Students planning to undertake various research projects are awarded scholarships by the Bayer Foundation . A student must have excellent academic results and be working on an innovative research project to qualify for the scholarship. It is available to both German and international students.

Also check out Scholarships in Germany for Indian Students 2024 to find financial support for your studies and make your overseas education more affordable

Study in Germany: Scholarships  

• University-specific Scholarships
• Government-Funded Scholarships
• Industry and Research Institution Scholarships

Access the Free Complete Guide to Studying in Germany and get all the insights you need to plan your studies abroad effectively!

Scholarship Opportunities for Indian Students in Germany in 2024  

DAAD Scholarships:

• It provides a range of scholarships for Indian students throughout numerous instructional degrees and disciplines.

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarships:

• For Indian college students enthusiastic about environmental protection, social justice, and human rights, the Heinrich Böll Foundation offers scholarships to aid their research in Germany.  

Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships:

• The Friedrich Ebert Foundation gives scholarships to Indian college students who exhibit a robust determination to social democracy and socio-political involvement. 

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Scholarships:

• KAS gives scholarships to Indian college students with first-rate educational achievements and leadership capability. These scholarships intend to promote global statistics and cooperation with the aid of assisting Indian college students in various fields of study, along with political and technological knowledge, law, economics, and public management.  

Bayer Foundation Scholarship:

• The Bayer Foundation Scholarship offers financial support to both professionals and students. The main requirements include outstanding academic achievements from students and a focus on highly innovative approaches and topics in their projects.  

Also check out the Free Education In Germany For Indian Students In 2024 and discover how you can study abroad without breaking the bank!

There are several Master’s scholarship s in Germany. Some of the popular ones are listed below. The list also includes exclusive scholarships for Indian students to study in Germany.

• Narotam Sekhsaria’s Scholarship
• K. C. Mahindra Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies Abroad
• Harvey Fellowship
• Inlaks Scholarships
• Erasmus Mundus Joint Masters Scholarship
• GyanDhan Scholarship
• Lady Meherbai D. Tata Education Trust Scholarship
• Education for Sustainable Energy Development (ESED)
• FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship
• International Scholarship Program

Read more: Tips to Help You Adapt to US Culture

Conclusion 

Germany offers many fully funded scholarships for international students covering various academic fields and research interests, like the DAAD Scholarships and the Konrad-Zuse-Foundation Scholarship.

These scholarships provide financial help and encourage academic excellence and cultural exchange. You can join Great Learning’s Study Abroad Programs to be part of this opportunity.

Whether you choose to study online or on-campus in the USA or Germany, you’ll immerse yourself in a rich learning experience while embracing diverse cultures. Great Learning makes it easier to pursue your dream of studying in Germany with our Masters in Analytics & Master of Business programs at FOM University . Enjoy up to 33% savings on your degree expenses, with no GRE/TOEFL requirements, making your academic journey more accessible and affordable.

Moreover, you can launch your international career using post-study work visas offered in the USA and Germany.

Don’t miss out on this chance to explore new horizons and advance your career with Great Learning 

• Introduction to IELTS Exam
• Introduction to TOEFL Exam
• GRE Prep Course
• Smart English Basics for Professionals
• English Language Proficiency Tests for Study Abroad
• Scholarships and Financial Aid for Studying Abroad
• Study Abroad Budget Guide for Beginners

The DAAD Scholarship offers diverse financial assistance, including study scholarships, research grants, internships, and more, catering to the needs of students, researchers, and academics globally.

The application deadline for the Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship usually falls in spring or early summer. Applicants should check the foundation’s website for exact dates.

Eligibility for the KAS Scholarship requires excellent academics, a commitment to democracy, social responsibility, and fluent German language skills.

To apply for Erasmus scholarships in Germany, students should first check if their home institution participates in the Erasmus program and then inquire about eligibility and application procedures.

The Bayer Foundation Scholarship requires outstanding academic achievements from students and a focus on highly innovative approaches and topics in their projects, making it suitable for both professionals and students.

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Doing a PhD in Germany

Germany’s reputation as an outstanding research destination continues to attract the world’s finest minds. In 2014 an incredible Number of 85,000 people chose Germany to write their dissertations or join one of our growing number of doctoral research teams. Discover your best route to a PhD in Germany, including financing options and advice on how to prepare for your research stay.

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Estonia Scholarships

Estonia government degree and exchange study scholarships 2024 (study in estonia).

• Partial Funding
• Estonia Universities
• Bachelor, Masters, PhD
• All Subjects
• International Students

Description

Scholarships for Degree and Exchange Study in Estonia for the 2024/2025 Academic Year

Estonia, a rising star in European higher education, offers scholarships for foreign students interested in degree and exchange studies for the 2024/2025 academic year. This opportunity is available for master's and doctoral studies across all fields, while at the bachelor's level, scholarships are limited to fields related to Estonian language and culture.

Why Should You Study in Estonia?

Estonia, a Baltic nation known for its technological advancements and stunning landscapes, offers a unique and enriching study experience. Here are five compelling reasons to consider pursuing your education in this Scandinavian country:

• World-Class Education: Estonia boasts a high-quality education system that aligns with international standards. Its universities and colleges are renowned for their academic excellence, offering a diverse range of programs taught in English.
• Affordable Tuition: Compared to many Western countries, studying in Estonia is relatively affordable. Tuition fees are reasonable, making it a cost-effective option for international students.
• English-Friendly Environment: Estonia has a strong English-speaking population, making it easy for international students to navigate daily life and academic settings. Many locals are proficient in English, ensuring a smooth integration experience.
• Technological Hub: Estonia is a digital pioneer, often referred to as the "e-Estonia" of Europe. The country's advanced technology infrastructure and entrepreneurial spirit create a dynamic and innovative learning environment.
• Cultural Diversity: Despite its small size, Estonia is a culturally diverse country. Interacting with students from around the world can broaden your horizons, foster intercultural understanding, and create lifelong friendships.

Degree Level

Estonia Government Degree and Exchange Study Scholarships 2024 (Study in Estonia) is available to undertake Bachelor, Masters, PhD level programs at Estonia Universities.

Available Subjects

Following subject are available to study under this scholarship program.

The scholarship offers:

• For Bachelor’s and Master’s Studies: 350 euros per month.
• For Doctoral Studies: 660 euros per month.

These funds are provided for a maximum of 12 months for degree studies and up to 10 calendar months for exchange studies. It is crucial for students to complete at least 75% of their curriculum to continue receiving the scholarship.

Eligible Nationalities

Students from various countries are eligible to apply, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Egypt, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Great Britain, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Kazakhstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Mexico, Moldova, People’s Republic of China, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Korea, Slovenia, Spain, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine, and the United States of America.

Eligibility Criteria

Students from the eligible countries (mentioned above) can apply for this scholarship.

Application Procedure

Applications are to be submitted electronically, with the application period running from August 1st, 2024, to September 1st, 2024, at 23:59 Estonian time. The application form , once filled out, must be sent in Word format to the email address [email protected] . It is essential to ensure that the form is complete and accurate, as it cannot be modified after submission. Also, note that a signature on the application form is not required.

Required Documents

Applicants must submit:

• A completed application form including a motivation letter.
• A copy of the applicant’s passport or ID card.
• A copy of the confirmation letter of admission to an Estonian higher education institution.
• If these documents are not in English or Estonian, translations must be provided.

Important Considerations

It is important to note that receiving a scholarship does not guarantee admission to an Estonian higher education institution. Applicants must ensure they meet all admission requirements and deadlines independently of the scholarship process.Additionally, the scholarship is highly competitive, with only around 10% of applicants historically receiving the award. Therefore, students are encouraged to explore alternative funding options alongside this scholarship.

Studying in Estonia offers a unique blend of academic excellence, affordability, a welcoming environment, and opportunities for personal and professional growth. If you're seeking a high-quality education in a technologically advanced and culturally rich country, Estonia should be on your list.

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