DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2025 in Germany | Fully Funded) Deadline: 30 September, 2025

DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2025 are now open for applications at the prestigious yDiv Graduate School, part of the German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) in Leipzig, Germany. These scholarships offer outstanding students from the Global South the opportunity to pursue a fully funded PhD in integrative biodiversity research. Applicants must hold an above-average master’s degree in a relevant field and show strong motivation for advancing research in biodiversity, conservation, and related disciplines. With full financial support and access to world-class academic resources, this program is an exceptional gateway to a high-level research career in Germany.

The yDiv Graduate School—also known as the Young Biodiversity Graduate School—stands out for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to biodiversity studies. As part of iDiv, it fosters collaboration between theorists and empiricists, bridging various levels of biodiversity research. Its structured PhD program includes a rich curriculum of scientific and methodological courses, complemented by soft-skills training to prepare scholars for academic and professional excellence. Selected candidates for the DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2025 will benefit from expert supervision, networking opportunities, and a vibrant international research community in one of Europe’s leading biodiversity hubs.

Scholarship Summary

• Country: Germany
• Provider: DAAD
• Host: German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv), Leipzig
• Study Level: PhD
• Deadline: 30 September 2025

Benefits

• Monthly stipend of EUR 1,400
• Country-specific travel allowance
• Health, accident, and liability insurance
• Study and research allowance
• Optional final grant for up to six months after the funding period
• Access to iDiv’s research resources and yDiv’s structured PhD program
• Opportunity to participate in international research networks and interdisciplinary training.

Eligibility for DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2025

• Eligible Countries: Applicants must be from countries of the Global South.
• Acceptable Course or Subjects: The scholarship will be awarded in the field of society and nature, related to biodiversity research.
• Admissible Criteria: To be eligible, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
  • Hold an above-average Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field.
  • Show strong motivation for pursuing a PhD in integrative biodiversity research.
  • Have not previously completed a PhD.
  • Be proficient in English.
  • Be a non-German citizen and must not have resided in Germany for more than 15 months prior to the application deadline.
  • Have graduated no longer than six years before October 2025.
  • Be committed to developing an independent research proposal aligned with one of the iDiv research groups.
  • Candidates should plan for no more than 25% of their research time outside Germany.

How to Apply for DAAD GSSP Scholarships 2025 in Germany

• Submit your complete application via the yDiv application portal by 30 September 2025 (6:00 pm CET).
• Required documents include:
  • Research proposal (max. 2–3 pages)
  • Research schedule with planned fieldwork or international stays
  • Supervisor selection (from listed PhD project PIs)
  • Letter of recommendation (DAAD template)
  • CV
  • Letter of motivation (max. 2 pages)
  • Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts
  • Proof of English proficiency (optional but recommended)
  • Certificates of internships or publications (optional)
• Selected candidates will be invited for online interviews in October 2025.
• Nominated applicants will then submit final documents to DAAD for final approval.