DAAD Doctoral Programmes in Germany 2027 Apply now

DAAD Doctoral Scholarship in Germany 2027

The DAAD Doctoral Programmes in Germany 2027 offers international students and researchers an opportunity to complete a doctoral degree at a state or state-recognised university or research institution in Germany. The programme is funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and provides substantial financial support for successful applicants.

Applicants can pursue either an individual doctoral research project under the supervision of a university professor or join a structured doctoral programme in Germany.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants should have above-average academic qualifications and must have completed a Master’s degree or Diplom before the funding period begins. In exceptional cases, applicants with a Bachelor’s degree may also be considered.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The DAAD doctoral scholarship provides:

• €1,400 monthly scholarship payment
• Health, accident and personal liability insurance
• Travel allowance, upon application
• €460 annual research allowance
• Possible monthly rent subsidy
• Possible allowance for accompanying family members
• Additional support for justified disability- or chronic-illness-related costs
• Online German language course
• Possible 2-, 4- or 6-month language course before the research stay
• Allowance for a personally selected German language course during the scholarship
• Reimbursement of TestDaF or DSH examination fees

Duration of the Scholarship

Funding is available for a maximum of four years. Scholarships are initially awarded for up to three years, with the possibility of an extension for a fourth year depending on academic progress and the doctoral study plan.

The funding period must begin in 2027.

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What Can Be Funded?

The scholarship supports doctoral research at German higher education institutions and non-university research institutes. Research periods outside Germany may also be funded when they are essential for completing the doctoral project, provided they do not exceed one quarter of the expected total funding period.

Selection Criteria

Applications are assessed by an independent committee of specialist scientists. Key selection areas include:

• Academic performance and qualifications
• Academic progress
• Language skills
• Publications, presentations and other scholarly achievements
• Quality and originality of the research proposal
• Relevance and topicality of the research
• Choice of host institution and initial academic contact
• Feasibility of the study plan and research schedule
• Career prospects
• Motivation for studying and researching in Germany
• Civic engagement and non-academic skills

Why Apply for the DAAD PhD Scholarship?

The DAAD Doctoral Scholarship provides international researchers with the opportunity to conduct high-quality research in Germany while receiving financial support for living expenses, insurance, research and travel. It can be an excellent opportunity for students seeking to develop their academic careers and gain international research experience.

How to Apply

Applicants should carefully review the official DAAD programme announcement, eligibility requirements, application documents and deadline before submitting an application. A complete and well-prepared research proposal, a realistic study plan and strong academic qualifications are important parts of the selection process.

Funding: Up to €1,400 per month + additional benefits
Study Level: PhD / Doctorate
Study Destination: Germany
Funding Start: 2027
Programme: DAAD Doctoral Programmes in Germany
Funded By: German Federal Foreign Office

Always check the official DAAD announcement for the current application deadline, document requirements and country-specific application information before applying.

OFFICIAL LINK