DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Programmes in Germany 2026 | Fully Funded PhD Opportunity
Are you an international student looking to pursue a fully funded PhD in Europe? The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, is now accepting applications for its DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Programmes in Germany 2026.
This prestigious program provides international scholars with the opportunity to conduct doctoral research at top-tier German institutions. If you’re interested in completing a research-based doctorate in one of the world’s most innovative academic environments, this could be your golden ticket.
Scholarship Overview
- Host Country: Germany
- Institution Type: Universities and non-university research institutes
- Level: Doctoral (PhD)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: All nationalities
- Stipend: €17,260 annually (~€1,300/month)
- Other Benefits: Health insurance, travel allowance, research support
- IELTS Requirement: Not mandatory
- Deadline: September 24, 2025
About the DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Programme
The DAAD Doctoral Scholarship is one of the most competitive and well-funded programs offered by Germany. It allows high-achieving international students to pursue doctoral research at state-recognized universities or research institutes.
Administered by DAAD – the largest scholarship provider in Germany – this program is tailored to support research excellence while promoting international academic collaboration.
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Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the DAAD Doctoral Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Graduation Timeline: You must not have graduated more than six years before the application deadline.
- Current PhD Students: If you’ve already started a PhD, it must have begun within the last 3 years.
- Residency Status: You must not have been residing in Germany for more than 15 months as of the deadline.
- Academic Qualifications: A second-class upper (or equivalent) Bachelor’s degree and a relevant Master’s degree.
- Language Proficiency: While many programs are in English, good German skills are often required—especially in arts and humanities. A 4–6 month German language course is usually included in the award.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants receive a comprehensive benefits package:
- Monthly Stipend: €1,300
- Health & Liability Insurance Coverage
- Travel Grant: Round-trip ticket to/from Germany
- Research Allowance: €460 per year
- Optional Add-ons:
- Monthly rent subsidy
- Family allowance for dependents
This generous support enables students to focus solely on their academic and research goals in Germany.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents:
- Completed online application form
- CV (in Europass format)
- Letter of motivation (1–2 pages)
- Research proposal with a schedule of activities
- Letter of admission (if already obtained)
- Copies of degree certificates and academic transcripts
- Recommendation letter
- Proof of English or German proficiency
- List of publications (if applicable)
How to Apply for the DAAD PhD Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps to successfully apply:
- Visit the official DAAD Scholarship Portal and select your country of citizenship to view specific eligibility details.
- Carefully read the instructions and guidelines provided for your country.
- Create an account and complete the online application form.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit your completed application before the September 24, 2025 deadline.
Note: Your application is only valid if all documents are submitted via the DAAD portal before the deadline.
Take the first step toward an exceptional research career in Germany. The DAAD Doctoral Scholarship Programme 2026 is more than a scholarship—it’s a gateway to world-class education, groundbreaking research, and global opportunities.
Apply now and secure your future!
