DAAD Research Grants for Doctoral Programs in Germany

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a remarkable opportunity for international students through its Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany. This scholarship program is designed to support outstanding doctoral candidates who wish to pursue their research in Germany, contributing to the country’s global research environment. Sponsored by the German Federal Foreign Office, the scholarship offers a fully funded experience for doctoral students.

Objective of the Scholarship Program

The DAAD Research Grants aim to facilitate research opportunities for international scholars by providing financial assistance to those looking to pursue their doctoral degree at a state or state-recognized institution in Germany. The focus is on fostering academic exchange and promoting research collaborations across different disciplines. The grant supports both individual doctoral projects as well as participation in structured doctoral study programs.

Who Can Apply?

The DAAD Doctoral Scholarship is open to international students who have demonstrated above-average academic qualifications. Specifically, the applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Completion of a Master’s degree or equivalent by the time the funding period begins. In exceptional cases, students holding a Bachelor’s degree may be considered.
• Demonstrated academic excellence through a strong academic record.
• Applicants must be accepted or enrolled in a doctoral program at a German institution.
• Research projects must align with the focus areas supported by DAAD, such as science, technology, economics, and social sciences.

What Can Be Funded?

The DAAD Research Grants support a doctoral project at a recognized institution in Germany. The program offers flexibility, allowing students to undertake either individual research projects under the supervision of a German academic or participate in structured doctoral programs.One of the significant benefits is the possibility of funding research phases outside Germany as part of the doctoral project. These phases, however, should not exceed one-quarter of the total funding period, and their relevance to the project must be demonstrated in the study plan.

Duration of Funding

The funding period for the DAAD Research Grants can extend up to four years, depending on the nature and scope of the doctoral project. Initially, scholarships are awarded for a maximum of one year, with extensions based on the student’s progress and the evaluation by the selection committee.

Financial Benefits

The DAAD Research Grant offers a comprehensive financial package, ensuring that students can focus entirely on their research. The key financial benefits include:

• Monthly stipend of 1,300 euros for the duration of the scholarship.
• Travel allowance to and from Germany.
• Health, accident, and personal liability insurance.
• Annual research allowance of 460 euros for research-related expenses.
• Monthly rent subsidy (if needed and justified).
• Allowance for accompanying family members, if applicable.

Additionally, for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses, the scholarship provides financial assistance to cover any extra costs related to their condition that are not covered by other sources.

Language Courses and Support

One of the unique aspects of the DAAD scholarship is its emphasis on ensuring scholars are linguistically prepared for their stay in Germany. To help students improve their German language skills, DAAD offers several services:

• Payment for an online language course before the start of the program.
• If necessary, DAAD may fund a 2, 4, or 6-month German language course before the start of the research stay.
• Scholars can also apply for an allowance for a personally chosen German language course during their stay.
• Reimbursement of TestDaF or DSH test fees to certify language proficiency either before or during the scholarship period.

Selection Criteria

The selection process for the DAAD Research Grants is highly competitive and is carried out by an independent committee of subject matter experts. The key selection criteria include:

• Academic qualifications: Academic performance, progress, and research accomplishments such as publications and conference papers play a crucial role in the evaluation process.
• Research quality: The originality, relevance, and feasibility of the proposed research project are critical. The study plan, choice of host institution, and the integration of research phases outside Germany are also evaluated.
• Applicant’s potential: The applicant’s career prospects and the significance of the research project for their academic and professional development are considered, along with their motivation to study in Germany.

Application Procedure

Applicants for the DAAD Research Grants must follow a structured application procedure, including submitting various required documents. The application process takes place online via the DAAD portal. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of the application process:

• Online Application: Complete the online application form available on the DAAD portal.
• Curriculum Vitae: Submit a detailed CV in tabular form (maximum of 3 pages).
• Research Proposal: A comprehensive research proposal (maximum of 10 pages) that has been discussed with an academic supervisor in Germany. This should include the schedule for the proposed research work.
• Motivation Letter: Write a personal statement explaining the reasons for choosing Germany and the significance of the project for personal and professional growth.
• Recommendation Letter: Submit a letter of recommendation from a university professor, which attests to the academic and research capabilities of the applicant.
• Degree Certificates: Include certificates of all university degrees obtained, along with grade transcripts.
• Proof of Admission: Applicants must provide proof of admission to a doctoral program at a German university or research institute.

To apply, visit DAAD Official Application here. 

Key Documents for Submission

The following documents should be uploaded to the DAAD portal to ensure a complete application:

• Online application form
• Full CV (max. 3 pages)
• Research proposal and study plan (max. 10 pages)
• Motivation letter (1-2 pages)
• University degree certificates
• Confirmation of doctoral supervision from a German academic (for individual projects)
• Letter of admission to a structured doctoral program (if applicable)
• Letter of recommendation
• Translations of documents (if required)

Incomplete applications or those missing critical documents will not be considered for selection. DAAD advises applicants to submit all required documents well before the application deadline.

Application Deadlines

Application deadlines are updated annually and typically fall in October for scholarships starting the following academic year. The selection process usually takes place in January or February, and the scholarship period begins in October. Students are advised to check the DAAD website for the most recent deadlines, as they may vary slightly from year to year.

Equal Opportunities and Diversity

The DAAD takes equal opportunities into account in its selection process. Applicants are encouraged to provide any relevant information regarding their background, including any experience related to civic engagement or challenges faced due to disability, in their application.

Post-Selection Process

Once the selection committee approves the candidates, scholars are notified via the DAAD portal. Successful applicants will receive an official Scholarship Award Letter. Upon receipt of the award, scholars are expected to adhere to the terms and conditions of the scholarship, which include maintaining satisfactory academic progress and fulfilling all program requirements.

Contact and Consulting

Prospective applicants who need more information or guidance can contact DAAD's consulting services. The organization provides application consultations and offers detailed guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and the scholarship selection process.

For more assistance, applicants can contact:

• DAAD Scholarships Office:

                  Email: scholarships@daad.de Phone: +49-228-882-0

In conclusion, the DAAD Research Grants for Doctoral Programs in Germany offer an incredible opportunity for ambitious international scholars to pursue high-level research in a world-class academic environment. With its financial support, language learning opportunities, and focus on fostering international collaborations, the DAAD scholarship is an invaluable tool for scholars aiming to make a significant impact in their respective fields.