Research Grants in Germany 2025 (Deadline: 29 August, 2025) Apply Now

The DAAD Research Grants support international doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers who wish to carry out independent research projects at German institutions. This program is an excellent opportunity to deepen your expertise, collaborate with German researchers, and strengthen your academic career.

Objective

This grant allows international researchers to conduct research projects at state-recognised universities or research institutes in Germany, with the guidance of a local academic supervisor.

The funding supports both:

• Doctoral research stays, and
• Postdoctoral research visits (within four years of completing a PhD)

Note: This grant does not support full doctoral studies in Germany.

Who Can Apply?

You are eligible if you:

• Are currently enrolled in a PhD program at a university outside Germany, or
• Have completed a PhD within the last four years (postdoc stage)

You are not eligible if you are pursuing your entire doctorate at a German university.

What Can Be Funded?

• Independent research at a German university or non-university research institute
• Research must be pre-approved and supported by a German academic supervisor
• Research must begin in 2026

Duration of Funding

• Doctoral candidates: 2 to 12 months
• Postdocs: 2 to 6 months

Note: The funding period must be continuous and cannot be split across multiple stays.

Scholarship Value

• Monthly stipend: €1,400
• Health, accident, and liability insurance contributions
• Travel allowance
• Research allowance: €460 (for stays longer than 6 months)

Additional benefits (for funding periods longer than 6 months):

• Monthly rent subsidy
• Allowance for accompanying family members
• Language course support: Online and in-person courses, including TestDaF/DSH fee reimbursement
• Disability support: Subsidy for additional costs due to disability or chronic illness
• Green Mobility Bonus for climate-friendly travel or carbon offsetting

 Application Process

Applications must include:

• Research proposal
• Confirmation from a host institution in Germany
• Proof of academic qualifications and research experience
• Motivation letter
• CV and references

All documents must be submitted through the DAAD scholarship portal.

Download Application Form and Guidelines (PDF)

 Selection Criteria

Applications are reviewed by an independent committee of academic experts based on:

1. Academic Qualifications
   • Grades and academic progress
   • Publications, research experience, and academic maturity
2. Quality of the Research Proposal
   • Originality and relevance
   • Feasibility and coherence with doctoral or postdoctoral plans
3. Potential and Motivation
   • • Alignment with career goals
     • Civic engagement or leadership experience
     • Language proficiency and motivation for conducting research in Germany
   Youth development initiatives
4. Equal Opportunity Consideration
   • Applicants can indicate relevant personal background or challenges in the application

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