phd in english literature scholarship in germany

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International Programmes 2023/2024

International PhD Programme (IPP) Literary and Cultural Studies International PhD Programme Literary and Cultural Studies

Justus liebig university giessen • gießen.

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Courses are held in English (75%) and German (25%). Each participant can choose to write his or her dissertation in the language agreed upon with his or her supervisor.

The deadline for applications is 1 February every year. In some cases - for example, if the applicant will not finish her/his degree until after 1 February - it is possible to extend the deadline to 1 May after consulting the IPP.

The International PhD Programme (IPP) "Literary and Cultural Studies" at Justus Liebig University Giessen offers a clearly structured and research-oriented, three-year doctoral programme focusing on four research areas:

• Literary and Cultural Theory
• Genre Theory
• Literary and Cultural Historiography
• Comparative and Interdisciplinary Issues

Participating departments include English and American Studies, German Studies, Romance Studies, Slavic Studies, Comparative Literary Studies and Theatre Studies.

The IPP curriculum grants postgraduate students the opportunity to develop their academic profile in a wide range of courses designed specifically for (international) PhD students in the fields of literary and cultural studies. Core modules, seminars, workshops and Master's classes with renowned scholars from all over the world acquaint postgraduate students with state-of-the-art concepts, theories, methodologies and approaches. At the same time, IPP members are encouraged to pursue independent research from an early stage in their academic careers onwards. International Summer Schools and Conferences organised within the framework of an expansive international network with high-ranking universities from around the world integrate IPP members into national and international academic communities. The languages of instruction are German and English.

IPP members benefit from the programme's close integration into academic structures at Justus Liebig University (JLU). The IPP and the Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture (GCSC) jointly organise parts of their programmes. Additionally, IPP members are welcome to join junior research groups at the Giessen Graduate Centre for the Humanities (GGK) and to publish in the GGK/GCSC's online review journal KULT_online. IPP members not only find support in developing an international academic profile, but may acquire additional academic and practical qualifications that pave their way to academic as well as non-academic job markets. The GGK/GCSC Career Service offers chances to strategically plan life after the dissertation even while pursuing your degree and to facilitate the transition from postgraduate studies into the professional world. The GCSC Teaching Centre assists PhD students in acquiring valuable didactic skills, which are relevant in academic teaching as well as in many non-academic professions, and supports PhD candidates in elaborating their own teaching portfolios. Multi-track supervision and mentoring structures encompass professorial supervisors, postdoctoral mentors and peer-group coaching. Our international participants benefit from tutorials and language courses especially designed to pave their way to involvement in the German academic community. Social and cultural activities, such as excursions or theatre visits, complete our programme and facilitate strong bonds with peers.

Set in an intellectually stimulating and international context, the IPP provides extensive supervision and mentoring structures. The programme offers multi-track supervision and mentoring systems revolving around professorial supervisors, postdoctoral mentors, and peer-group coaching. The mentors provide advice not only on the dissertation, but also on scholarships, on applying for conferences, writing articles and similar activities.

The IPP offers a rich and promising environment for pursuing your PhD and guarantees support and guidance in all matters relating to your PhD throughout the three years of membership. Personal supervision is complemented by participation in our curriculum: regular colloquia with fellow PhD students, professors and post-docs allow an ongoing discussion of one's own project, as well as those of others, from an early state of inception to the submission of the PhD thesis.

Master's classes and workshops with high-ranking academics from around the world offer PhD students the chance to present their projects to specialists in the field, to benefit from their feedback, and to establish valuable international contacts. A broad spectrum of courses conveys essential skills e.g. in time management, in writing styles and techniques, in the handling of software tools for publishing, and managing bibliographies.

• International guest lecturers
• Study trips
• Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
• Language training provided

An internship is not part of the programme.

Approx. 795 EUR

Graduate scholarship of the Justus Liebig University / Graduiertenstipendien der Justus-Liebig-Universität

Students wishing to apply to the IPP "Literary and Cultural Studies" must hold a university degree in Literary Studies (e.g. German Studies, English/American Studies, Romance Studies, Slavic Studies, Comparative Literary Studies, Theatre Studies) with a GPA (average/final grade) well above average. Applicants should either hold a "Diplom", "Magister", "Erstes Staatsexamen" or Master's degree if obtained in Germany or a university degree equivalent to the German Master of Arts with thesis if obtained abroad. Furthermore, sound knowledge in either English or German is required.

For most disciplinary areas, the language of the dissertation and the dissertation defence is either German or English. The PhD Committee may accept the language of your respective discipline (i.e., French, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese) as well.

Even if the language of the dissertation is other than German, basic skills in German need to be acquired in the course of your studies. The IPP offers courses and training in German, English, and French. We would warmly advise you, however, to acquire a basic knowledge of German before coming to Giessen.

Prof Dr Dr h c Ansgar Nünning International PhD Programme (IPP) "Literary and Cultural Studies" Giessen Graduate School for the Humanities (GGK) Justus Liebig University Giessen Otto-Behaghel-Str. 12 35394 Giessen Germany

Halls of residence and private accommodation: www.uni-giessen.de/acc

IPP members can make use of the Career Service at the Graduate Centre, e.g., workshops, preparatory courses, and consultations.

• Specialist counselling

Justus Liebig University Giessen

Founded in 1607, Justus Liebig University Giessen is one of Germany's top research universities. It is not only rich in tradition but also highly innovative. Another unique feature is JLU Giessen's extraordinarily broad range of subjects. Additionally, JLU Giessen's 26,500 students and its ever-growing student community substantially contribute to making Giessen the city with the highest student ratio of all university towns in Germany. This singles out JLU Giessen as a key player in the region. However, with 40% international doctoral students, an international student community of around 11%, high-profile international partnerships, and two top-class international research facilities funded by Germany's nationwide Excellence Strategy, JLU is also a very active and highly attractive networking partner worldwide. Internationalisation is at the heart of JLU's institutional self-concept, and its internationalisation strategy with the motto "future through internationalisation" is a critical success factor for research and teaching as well as the personal development of its members. Excellent basic research combined with socially relevant application, the exploitation of interdisciplinary synergies, support for outstanding next-generation scholars, first-class university teaching, and an explicit international orientation define JLU Giessen in the fifth century of its existence, making it fit for the future.

University location

With around 92,000 inhabitants, Giessen is Germany's most student-dominated city and its two universities with their "extra population" of 40,000 students provide a unique college-town atmosphere. The city centre offers plenty of diversion for students, including film theatres (with student concession tickets), the municipal theatre with its experimental studios, swimming pools and sports and workout facilities, and a wide variety of pubs, restaurants (continental and ethnic), and night life venues. Therefore, you can add lots of flavour to your studies. The great thing about Giessen is that it's an easy place to navigate and, when the mood takes you, to escape into the picturesque surrounding countryside or the metropolis of Frankfurt am Main, which is about 60 kilometres away.

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2718 Study programs

Study English Literature in Germany: 15 Universities with 19 English Degree Programs

All important info for international students in germany (2024/2025).

English Literature is a rich field that delves into the vast array of written works in the English language. This discipline encompasses the study of prose, poetry, drama, and narrative texts, ranging from classic to contemporary literature. Students explore themes, literary techniques, historical contexts, and the diverse voices that have shaped English literature over centuries. The field includes literary criticism, theory, and analysis, encouraging a deep appreciation of texts and their cultural significance. Students develop critical thinking, analytical writing, and creative interpretation skills. Career paths include education, writing, publishing, and academia, ideal for those with a passion for storytelling and a love of the written word.

Study Programs in English

Universities

Universities in International Rankings

€ 0 (19 programs for EU citizens, 17 programs for Non-EU citizens)

€ 1,500 per semester (19 programs for EU citizens, 2 programs for Non-EU citizens)

Winter Semester

between May 31 and September 30

Summer Semester

Top-ranked German Universities in English Literature

public University

No. of Students: approx. 36,000 students

Program Fees: € 0 (per semester)

No. of Students: approx. 38,000 students

No. of Students: approx. 37,000 students

No. of Students: approx. 27,000 students

Program Fees: € 0 - € 1,500 (per semester)

Tuition Fees

3 english degree programs for english literature in germany.

University of Göttingen Göttingen

English: language, literatures and cultures.

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Mainz

English literature and culture.

Trier University Trier

English literatures and media, application deadlines.

Winter Semester 2024/2025

Summer Semester 2024

Winter Semester 2025/2026

Open Programs

17 programs

No programs

Application Modes

Application process.

Saarland University Saarbrücken

English: linguistics, literatures, and cultures.

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf Düsseldorf

Comparative studies in english and american language, literature and culture.

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin

English literatures.

TOEFL Scores

Cambridge Levels

6 (2 programs )

80 (2 programs )

B2 First (FCE) (2 programs )

8 (1 program )

110 (1 program )

C2 Proficiency (CPE) (6 programs )

Freie Universität Berlin Berlin

English studies: literature, language, culture.

Kiel University Kiel

English and american literature, cultures, and media, english language, linguistics and literature.

4-6 semesters

→ View all programs with online courses

Master of Arts

Bachelor of Arts

Winter intake

Summer intake

Winter & Summer intake

List of all German Universities offering English-taught Study Programs in English Literature

Freie Universität Berlin

Program Fees: € 0

M.A. (Master of Arts)

Goethe University Frankfurt

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

B.A. (Bachelor of Arts)

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Welcome to the Class of Literature

The PhD Program is supported by all faculties involved in literary studies at LMU Munich. It offers a systematically structured curriculum with an emphasis on academic research, covering new ground both in terms of organisation and of professional specialisation. more

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Literary Studies

The Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School is the only graduate school focusing exclusively on literary studies that was successful in the Excellence Initiative of the German federal and state governments. Image Credit: Marcus Reichmann.

The Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School is the only graduate school focusing exclusively on literary studies that was successful in both phases of the national Excellence Initiative of the German federal and state governments.

News from Dec 10, 2015

The Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School supervises theoretically and conceptually outstanding doctoral dissertation projects with a specifically philological focus which apply comparative methods. Its research areas include the relationship between literature and other types of texts; the correlations between literature and other media; as well as the correlations between literature and discourses of knowledge.

The doctoral degree program “Literary Studies” offers intensive and individual supervision of the thesis as well as coursework and provides excellent working conditions, in particular with regard to the Philological Library . Applicants must have a completed degree (M.A. or equivalent) with above-average grades in the humanities, preferably literary studies. To facilitate international exchange, the Graduate School has exchange programs with many prestigious partner universities in Europe, East Asia, and North America.

The Graduate School awards up to ten doctoral scholarships per year. Scholarships are awarded for a maximum duration of three years. 

In addition to the Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies, there are six other graduate schools at Freie Universität Berlin that are funded through the German Excellence Initiative.

• Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies
• Berlin Graduate School of Muslim Cultures and Societies
• Berlin Mathematical School
• Berlin School of Integrative Oncology
• Graduate School of East Asian Studies
• Graduate School of North American Studies

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STIP: DAAD PhD Scholarships at the Graduate School Practices of Literature, Münster (30.11.2023)

Call for applications: daad scholarships for international phd students at the graduate school practices of literature, wwu münster, germany.

Start date:        October 1, 2024

Deadline:          November 30, 2023

The Graduate School Practices of Literature (GSPoL) at the University of Münster invites international applications for two PhD scholarships starting October 1, 2024. The three-year scholarships are part of the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) funded by the Federal Foreign Ministry in collaboration with the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

Graduate schools and structured doctoral training have been widely adopted by institutions across Europe to enhance networking skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and employability in and outside academia. High-quality standards regarding the selection and hosting of doctoral researchers, as well as an international research environment, create an ideal setting particularly for international candidates. Members of the GSPoL benefit from interdisciplinary supervision and exchange and have the opportunity to prepare for careers in academic and non-academic contexts.

Areas of study: English/American Studies, Arabic/Islamic Studies, German Studies, Latin Philology/Studies, (Neo-)Medieval Latin Studies, Dutch Studies, Scandinavian Studies, Romance Studies (main areas: French, Spanish and Italian Literature), Sinology, and Slavic Studies.

The program comprises three main research areas:

1. Literature, Culture and Society (relationship between literature, culture and society; social theories; cultural theories; cultural turn and/in literary studies)

2. Theories of Literature and Culture (science studies; history, theory and methodology of/in literary/cultural studies)

3. Literary/Cultural Studies and the Professional World (professional sectors that require expertise in literary/cultural studies; the literary marketplace; transferable skills)

Curriculum: lecture series and workshops, colloquia, research groups, and mandatory electives such as internships, academic teaching, etc. Supervision: Each doctoral candidate will have an interdisciplinary support group consisting of three supervisors. A written mentoring agreement and an individual timeline will be established and signed by the PhD candidate and their supervisors at the beginning of the programme.

Application Guidelines The application deadline for the winter term 2024/2025 is November 30, 2023 . Applications may be submitted in German or English.

Requirements

• excellent academic profile and a GSPoL-related university degree (generally a master’s degree in literary studies with a minimum GPA of 2.0, or, in exceptional cases, a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 1.50, according to the German grading system)
• German and English language skills (one language at the level of C1 and the other at the level of B1, in accordance with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages); see also FAQs
• additional foreign language skills according to Annex B of the PhD Study Regulations of the Department of History/Philosophy and Philology ; see also FAQs
• at the time of the nomination (i.e., the submission of the nomination letter to the DAAD), applicants must not have resided in Germany for more than fifteen months
• as a rule, applicants should not have graduated more than six years before the nomination ( exceptions apply)
• applicants with a PhD are not eligible
• research phases outside Germany during the funding period can be supported if they do not exceed 25 percent of the total funding period and do not take place at the beginning of the programme

The application for a scholarship follows a three-step process:

Step 1: written application to the GSPoL (via email as a single PDF file) consisting of:

• letter of motivation stating the reasons for the application to the GSPoL

curriculum vitae (without photograph)

proof that the applicant has completed a GSPoL-related university degree (generally a master’s degree in literary studies with a minimum GPA of 2.0 or a bachelor’s degree in literary studies with a minimum GPA of 1.50) according to § 5 (1) the GSPoL study regulations ; please include a degree certificate and a transcript of records listing your courses and grades and explaining the grading system at your home university as well as a certified translation if the original documents are not in German or English

proof of German, English and, possibly, additional foreign language skills according to § 5 (2) of the GSPoL study regulations

brief (approx. half-page) abstract of the PhD project

approx. 10-page project proposal, which discusses the research aims and methodology as well as the contents, originality and significance of the project

timeline, including optional stays/studies abroad of up to nine months in total (i.e., 25 percent of the duration of the scholarship), which may not be scheduled at the beginning of the programme

two letters of reference, including at least one letter from a professor from the applicant’s home university; if the applicant holds a bachelor’s degree or has completed a first academic degree with a regular duration of less than eight semesters, three references are required; please use the official DAAD template ( PDF or Word ) and ask your professors to email the confidential document to the GSPoL.

Step 2: interview at the GSPoL

Step 3: nomination to the DAAD and standard application procedure at and final decision by the DAAD (online application with supporting documentation via the DAAD portal)

Please refer to our website and the DAAD scholarship database for updates and further information.

Please send your application (via email as a single PDF file, except for the required letters of reference) and any questions you may have to:

Graduate School Practices of Literature WWU Münster, Fachbereich 09 (Philologie) Dr. Anna Thiemann c/o Germanistisches Institut Schlossplatz 34 48143 Münster 

Phone +49 251 83 - 24439

[email protected]

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How to Apply for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding, & FAQs

If you’re considering advancing your academic journey with a PhD and have a passion for conducting research in your field, Germany could be an excellent destination for you. With its top-tier universities, exciting research opportunities, financial support, and diverse culture, Germany stands out as an excellent choice for PhD studies.

These are the main steps to doing a PhD in Germany:

Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor

• Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs
• Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application

Apply for Doctoral Studies

Secure funding, get a student visa or resident permit, arrive in germany and begin your phd program, why pursue a phd in germany.

Here are some compelling reasons to pursue a PhD in Germany:

• Top universities. Germany boasts four universities ranked in the top 100 globally, offering access to world-class education and research facilities.
• International student community. Germany welcomes a diverse and thriving international student community, with over 458,210 international students studying across the country.
• Abundant research institutions. Germany’s 1,000+ publicly funded research institutions, spanning universities, applied sciences, research institutes, businesses, and government bodies, offer countless opportunities for collaboration and networking.
• Investment in research and development. Germany’s commitment to research and development is evident through its increasing expenditure, which reached a record high of 112.6 billion euros in 2021.
• Strong economy. Germany is known for its robust and stable economy, offering potential career opportunities in academia, industry, and research sectors after completing your PhD.

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany

Below, you will find all the steps you need to take, from discovering your perfect program to submitting your application and commencing your PhD adventure in Germany.

To start your PhD in Germany, define your research focus by considering your interests and academic background. Explore resources, attend conferences, and connect with professors. Use online sources, engage with academic communities, and seek advice from current PhD students for insights into the research scene.

If you’re already clear about your research direction, it’s time to search for suitable programs. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a comprehensive database of current opportunities, which you can explore at the DAAD PhD Database . Additionally, consider researching universities in Germany individually to understand what each institution offers in terms of research and programs.

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You will also have to find a supervisor. One way to do so is by visiting university websites to find faculty directories with profiles of professors and their research interests. Contact professors whose work aligns with your research interests, express your interest and inquire about supervision opportunities.

> You can search PhD programs using the GERiT database , which features over 31,000 research institutions.

Types of PhD Programs in Germany

Before you start searching for a PhD program, it’s essential to understand that in Germany, there are two different paths you can take when pursuing a PhD, each with its own set of advantages and opportunities.

Individual PhD Programs

An individual doctorate program is considered the more common and traditional PhD route in Germany. It is a flexible and self-directed path to earning a doctoral degree, particularly in fields like humanities and social sciences. You take the initiative to find a supervisor (called “Doktorvater” or “Doktormutter”) for your research project and often suggest your research topic.

There’s no fixed curriculum, giving you the freedom to set your research timeline and choose coursework. This approach requires self-discipline and active networking, including participation in doctoral candidate meetings and research events.

Structured PhD Programs

Structured PhD programs in Germany offer a clear path to a PhD degree, typically lasting three to five years. Unlike individual doctorate studies, they include a curriculum, research proposal submission that has to fit an existing program, and a set timeline for coursework and research.

Candidates benefit from advisor supervision and are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines, making structured programs ideal if you’re seeking a guided and comprehensive doctoral experience.

Ensure You Meet All Requirements & Prepare the Application

The requirements and application documents for a PhD in Germany can vary depending on your chosen institution and research area. However, as a general guideline, you should prepare the following:

• Academic degree recognized in Germany. Typically, you’ll need a master’s degree or a German state examination (Staatsexamen) to qualify for a PhD program.
• Copy of master’s thesis. Provide a copy of your master’s thesis, showcasing your research skills and the depth of your academic work.
• Research proposal. Craft a clear and comprehensive research proposal outlining your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and significance.
• Statement of purpose. Write a statement of purpose explaining why you wish to pursue a PhD in your chosen field, your academic and career goals, and how this program aligns with your aspirations.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV). Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, relevant coursework, publications, and any other qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency. Depending on the language of instruction (usually German or English), you may have to provide proof of language proficiency. You can do this with certificates like TestDaF, DSH, TOEFL, IELTS, or proof of previous studies in the language.
• Academic references. You may need to provide contact information or recommendation letters from professors or academic advisors confirming your academic abilities and research potential.
• Predoctoral examination. Some programs may require you to pass a predoctoral examination as part of the application process.

Once you’ve found a suitable PhD program and a mentor, and your academic qualifications are recognized in Germany, you can start your application. Depending on the university or research institute, you can apply online or by post, so it’s essential to check their specific requirements. Keep in mind that admission committees are selective and may conduct interviews to admit the best candidates.

Securing funding is a crucial step when preparing for a PhD in Germany. To meet visa requirements and stay in the country, you must demonstrate access to a minimum of €934 per month, totaling €11,208 annually. This proof can be provided through an admission agreement or relevant contract, or you can open a blocked account with individual funds.

There are various ways to financially support yourself while pursuing a PhD in Germany:

• PhD scholarships. DAAD offers the highest number of doctoral scholarships. PhD students get an average monthly stipend of €1,139.
• Paid PhD positions. Many universities and research institutions offer paid PhD positions in Germany. You will have a contract and work on specific research projects while receiving a salary.
• Research associate positions. You can also work as a research associate in a university, research institution, or company and receive a salary as compensation.
• Part-time jobs. Some PhD students/researchers work part-time jobs that are not related to their studies to secure additional income.

> Read more about the costs associated with studying in Germany.

> Explore scholarship opportunities.

Once your acceptance into the PhD program is confirmed by the university or institution, you can begin the process of applying for a student visa or residence permit. The PhD visa or permit requirements for Germany can vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances:

Visa Requirements

Citizens of the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not need any special permit or visa to pursue a PhD in Germany. They can research and work with just a valid passport or ID card.

For international researchers who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, a visa will be required to work as a researcher in Germany.

The type of visa you need depends on your specific situation:

• Study visa. If you’re pursuing a full-time doctoral program, you may apply for a student visa.
• Research visa. If your focus is on research and you have a formal affiliation with a research institution in Germany, you can apply for a research visa.
• EU Blue Card. If your PhD offer includes a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 in certain professions), you may be eligible for an EU Blue Card, which is a special residence title for international academics.

Residence Permit Requirements

Once you arrive in Germany, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit based on the visa you have:

• Study permit. If you’re accepted into a PhD program at a German university, you can get a study-based residence permit for up to two years, extendable.
• Research permit. If you’re a researcher with the right qualifications for doctoral programs, you can get a research permit for Germany. This requires a contract with a research institution for your project.
• EU Blue Card. You may be eligible for the EU Blue Card, which is for foreign academics and qualified workers in Germany. To get it through a PhD offer, your salary should be at least €45,300 per year, or €41,041.80 for certain bottleneck professions .

*Note that nationals of certain countries , including the United States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and Korea, who are not required to obtain a visa, must still apply for a residence permit.

> For more specific information tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also use this visa navigator.

Arriving in Germany and commencing your PhD program is an exciting step, but there are certain formalities you need to take care of. The international office at the university or a representative can guide you, however here are the main things to take care of once you’re in the country:

Register Your Residence

Shortly after your arrival, you must register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is mandatory, and you typically have a window of two weeks to complete this process.

Obtain Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany, including international PhD students, is obligated by law to have health insurance coverage . The type of health insurance you are eligible for depends on the source of your funding:

• Doctoral candidates with an employment contract are typically insured automatically with a state-regulated health insurance provider (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung -GKV)
• Doctoral candidates without an employment contract (with a fellowship or private funding) may choose between:
• Voluntary health insurance coverage with a state-regulated provider.
• Coverage with a private health insurance company.

Some exceptions allow you to retain your insurance from your home country, such as students from a European Union (EU) country or other countries with social security agreements with Germany.

Open a Bank Account

It’s advisable to open a German bank account as soon as possible. Many financial transactions in Germany, including receiving your stipend or salary, are typically done through a German bank account.

Enrollment at University

If your PhD program requires enrollment at a university, you’ll need to complete this step. Submit the necessary documents to the university’s enrollment office, which may include your admission letter, passport, proof of health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a lot to think about when you’re considering pursuing a PhD, especially if it’s in a foreign country. We’re sure you’ve got more questions, and we’re here to help.

What Is the Duration of a PhD Program in Germany?

In general, a PhD program in Germany typically lasts between three to six years.

The duration of a PhD program in Germany can vary depending on several factors, including the university, the subject area, and individual progress.

Are PhD Programs in Germany Tuition-Free?

Most PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free, at least for the first six semesters. However, if you are enrolled at a university, you will need to cover a semester fee. This can vary depending on the university but usually falls within the range of €100 to €350.

Is Knowing German Mandatory to Pursue a PhD in Germany?

Knowing German is not always mandatory to pursue a PhD in Germany. Many German universities offer PhD programs in English, especially in fields like science, engineering, and the humanities. In such programs, you can write your thesis and communicate with professors and peers in English.

However, language requirements differ by university and department. If your program is in German, you might need to prove your proficiency. Knowing German can also be helpful for daily life and integration if you’re living in Germany.

Will I Get a PhD Salary in Germany?

PhD candidates in Germany, whether affiliated with universities, research institutions, or companies collaborating with them, typically receive financial support in the form of a salary or grant.

The majority of doctoral positions are structured under the TV-L (Tarifvertrag im Öffentlichen Dienst) salary scale, often falling within the TV-L 13 category, with a salary range spanning from €4,188 (Tier 1) to €6,037 (Tier 6).

Salaries are typically determined based on a wage agreement that specifies the contract tier (Stufe) and working hours (percentage-based). Many entry-level PhD students start with tier 1 contracts that are not full-time. For example, if your contract places you in Pay Group E-13 Tier 1 of the TV-L and you work at 75% capacity, your monthly gross salary will be €3,141.

Can I Work While Pursuing a PhD in Germany?

It’s generally allowed for PhD students in Germany to have part-time jobs to cover living expenses. However, the rules and expectations can vary depending on your supervisor, field of study, and specific circumstances.

While part-time work is an option, keep in mind that pursuing a PhD can be quite demanding, often requiring long hours of research and study. It’s essential to find the right balance between work and your academic commitments. Additionally, make sure to be aware of any legal and contractual obligations related to your employment while studying for your PhD.

What Is the Process for Defending a PhD Thesis in Germany?

In Germany, defending your PhD thesis involves several steps. You start by submitting your thesis and necessary documents, making sure they meet all the formal requirements. A commission is formed, and you may have the opportunity to suggest reviewers.

Then, you will have to prepare and undergo an oral defense, which can be either public or private and typically lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this, you present your research and discuss it with the committee.

The outcome of this discussion determines your final grade, which you receive after the defense. If everything goes well, you’re granted the Ph.D. title and have about two years to publish your dissertation.

What Are the Career Prospects After Completing a PhD in Germany?

After completing a PhD in Germany, career prospects are promising. Graduates often find opportunities in academia as professors or researchers or in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. Germany’s strong economy and research-oriented environment make it an attractive place for career development.

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Structured Doctoral Programs

Each of our structured doctoral programs offers a comprehensive and cross-disciplinary curriculum designed to help you realize your full potential and prepare for a successful career. The programs include innovative, personalized advising with regular progress checks, as well as extensive opportunities to broaden your research network and connect with peers in your field.

The University of Bonn offers a wide range of funding opportunities, which have been summarized for you on this page, divided into the following categories:

Bonn International Graduate Schools (BIGS)

Phd programs within our cluster of excellence.

• Structured Doctoral Programs by Discipline 

Third-Party Funded Programs

Doctoral education at the highest level: BIGS enable doctoral studies in outstanding research contexts with attractive international collaborations and a qualification program tailored to the needs of graduate students.

Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics and supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative, BIGS-M  is home to all of the University’s doctoral candidates in mathematics and contributes to Bonn’s excellent international reputation in the field.

BGSE offers a structured program that is tailored to the needs of doctoral candidates, including an internationally recognized research network.

Supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative and jointly administered by the renowned Physics Institutes at the Universities of Bonn and Cologne, BCGS  offers doctoral studies through an integrated honors program.

Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS 6 6 is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

BIGS-OAS offers a wide range of courses within a research context, focused on the cultures and societies of Asia and Asia Minor.

BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

BIGS CPS's interdisciplinary approach combines medical, agricultural and pharmaceutical research.

BIGS Chemistry 10 doctoral candidates enjoy an exceptional and ambitious program covering all fields of chemistry.

This three-year doctoral program  is offered in conjunction with the University’s ImmunoSensation Cluster, which is funded by Germany’s Excellence Initiative.

Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research, BIGS-DR   trains students for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

The BIGS Land and Food combines the research at the agricultural Faculty with an interdisciplinary study program.

Clusters of Excellence stand for international and interdisciplinary elite research and offer young scientists excellent funding and career conditions. The University of Bonn currently has six clusters of excellence, more than any other university in Germany, and thus opens up a broad spectrum of possible research topics to doctoral candidates. Here you will find an overview of the university's clusters of excellence.

PhD Programs within our Excellence Cluster

The goal of the Hausdorff Center of Mathmatics is to identify and address mathematical challenges of the 21st century, to advance groundbreaking fundamental mathematical research worldwide, and to develop the mathematical methods and tools required by science and society.

Part of the Hausdorff Center is also a graduate school: The Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) hosts all doctoral students of mathematics and contributes to the outstanding international reputation of the university in this field. The duration of the program is usually 3 years, and the doctorate (Dr. rer nat.) can be earned as a degree.

More information: https://www.bigs-math.uni-bonn.de/de/studies/ 14 15 15

ImmunoSensation2 aims to continue the success story of the existing ImmunoSensation cluster. While the emphasis so far has been on fundamental research in particular of the innate immune system, now the mechanisms of immune intelligence are to be uncovered, i.e. the question of how the body succeeds in adapting immune responses to specific situations and then remembers this in order to be optimally prepared for similar challenges in the future. The cluster's graduate school, the Bonn International Graduate School Immunosciences and Infection offers a structured, three-year doctoral program.

You can find further information about this program here: 

https://www.immunosensation.de/opportunities/young-scientists

Until today, dependency studies has almost exclusively dealt with slavery on the American continent or in antiquity. The Cluster of Excellence "Bonn Center for Dependency and Slavery Studies (BCDSS)" aims to broaden this perspective in terms of content, space and time. Within the framework of the cluster, a structured doctoral program with a duration of 4 years is offered.

Further information can be found at:  https://www.dependency.uni-bonn.de/en 15 16

Over the last few decades, computer hardware has become smaller and smaller, but their technology remains more or less the same. Slowly, this development is reaching its limits.Thus, we need new technologies that satisfy our growing hunger for even more powerful hardware.

Quantum physics could be a solution.

Together with the University of Cologne and the RWTH Aachen, Bonn researchers want to work on making this new technology usable. To achieve this, quantum bits or even qubits - the quantum counterpart to our previous bits - quantum communication channels that build networks and error correction methods have to be explored from the ground up. As part of the Excellence Initiative, the Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS) offers a doctoral program with an integrated honors program.

Further information can be found at:  http://www.gradschool.physics.uni-bonn.de/. 4 4

The ECONtribute researches the functioning of markets as well as reasons for their failure. In doing so, the cluster goes beyond traditional analyses by systematically combining model-based theoretical approaches and behavioral explanatory models while incorporating legal and political frameworks. Within the cluster, the Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE) offers doctoral students a tailored structured doctoral program that includes an internationally recognized research network.

Further information can be found at:  https://www.bgse.uni-bonn.de. 3 3

Increasing agricultural production despite limited land while reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture - this is one of the challenges of our time. For this reason, the University of Bonn and Forschungszentrum Jülich are jointly developing methods and new technologies to observe, analyze, better understand and more specifically treat plants. The cluster's graduate school, the Theodor Brinkmann Graduate School, offers an interdisciplinary study program to master's students and doctoral candidates at the Faculty of Agriculture.

More information: https://www.phenorob.de/ .

The Third-Party Funded Programs at the University of Bonn offer structured doctoral studies on selected research topics. They enable close networking among doctoral students conducting research on related topics.

Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) 2 17 18 18 Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, BIGS-M provides an umbrella for all Bonn PhD students in mathematics. Thus, the BIGS-M contributes to the excellent national and international reputation of mathematics at Bonn.

Bonn International Graduate School Immunosciences and Infection The BIGS Immunosciences and Infection is a structured 3-year PhD program in conjunction with the ImmunoSensation Cluster/Bonn. The ImmunoSensation Cluster is part of the Excellence Strategy.

DFG Research Training Group "Gegenwart/Literatur. Geschichte, Theorie und Praxeologie eines Verhältnisses" (GRK 2291) [only in German]

The Research Training group supported by the DFG  aims at the exploration and analysis of the constitutive dimensions of the concept of contemporary literature.  

DFG international Research Training Group "Myeloid antigen presenting cells and the induction of adaptive immunity" GRK (2168) 19 19 19 19 The DFG-funded project is a cooperation of the University of Bonn and the University of Melbourne. The principal research focus is the intersection between innate and adaptive immunity in the context of infection.

DFG Research Training Group  "The Macroeconomics of Inequality"  ( GRK 2281) 20 20 20 20 The research program focuses on the macroeconomic aspects of inequality, an aspect of first-order importance for society. 

DFG Research Training Group "Template-designed Organic Electronics (TIDE)" (GRK 2591) 21 21 21 The Graduate Program 'Template-Designed Optoelectronic Devices' (TIDE) aims to provide comprehensive doctoral education in the field of Organic Electronics (OE) to meet the requirements of highly qualified and multidisciplinary professionals. 

DFG Research Training Group "Tools and Drugs of the Future - Innovative Methods and New Modalities in Medicinal Chemistry" (GRK 2873)

The goal of the RTG " Tools and Drugs of the Future" is to modernize medicinal chemistry and train a new generation of medicinal chemists and researchers at the interface with interconnected disciplines. In addition, the projects are intended to contribute to the development of new drug substances.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease" (SFB 1089) 22 22 27 27 Located at the newly inaugurated SFB 1089 on neuronal networks, the Integrated Research Training Group offers a structured graduate program for all doctoral researchers at the Centre.

Integrated Research Training Group at theDFG Collaborative Research Centre "Future Rural Africa" (SFB/TR 228) The integrated research group is investigating the relationship between land use change and shaping the future in rural africa in a total of 14 subprojects.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Open System Control of Atomic and Photonic Matter" (SFB/TR 185) 24 The collaborative research centre Oscar will explore the physics of open systems.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Aortic Diseases" (SFB/TR 259) 25 The aim of this research initiative is to better understand the molecular and cellular mechanisms of resident and non-resident cells in aortic diseases.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Regional Climate Change: Disentangling the Role of Land Use and Water Management" (SFB 1502) The SFB combines the strengths of the University of Bonn and its project partners to answer one of the most difficult questions in understanding climate change.

Integrated Research Training Group at the DFG Collaborative Research Centre "Brown and Beige Fat - Organ Crosstalk, Signaling and Energetics (BATenergy)" (SFB/TRR 333) The CRC investigates metabolism/diabetes and focusses on brown adipose tissue. 

One Health and Urban Transformation

The NRW Forschungskolleg One Health and Urban Transforming is a transdisciplinary graduate school that aims to find interventions to achieve optimal health for humans, animals, plants and the environment with a special focus on developments in NRW, Saõ Paulo, Accra and Ahmedabad.

International Max Planck Research School Moduli Spaces 27 27 In cooperation with the University of Bonn, the renowned Bonn Max-Planck-Institute for Mathematics offers a PhD program with a special focus on the study of moduli.

International Max Planck Research School for Astronomy and Astrophysics 28 28 In cooperation between the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and the Universities of Bonn and of Cologne, the Research School facilitates 3 years of PhD studies with a curriculum tailored to the individual student.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior 29 The IMPRS for Brain & Behavior is a cooperation between the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar, the University of Bonn and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn

International Max Planck Research School - Recharge IMPRS-RECHARGE focuses on interdisciplinary research between chemistry and physics with an emphasis on catalytic mechanisms, physical-chemical analysis and energy topics. Scientific challenges shall be looked at from different angles. Furthermore the combination of theory and practice is a vital aim of the IMPRS-RECHARGE.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Macro and Microplastic in Agricultural Soil Systems“ (SOPLAS) The SOPLAS project will assemble a multidisciplinary team to study the nexus of plastic–agriculture–soil. It will also train a new generation of leading experts. The project aims to identify the plastic cycle within agricultural soil systems and support the development of environmental policies related to mitigating the impact of plastics. The findings will advance our knowledge about the sustainable use of plastics in European agriculture.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Early Stage Researchers EDUCational Program on Factor VIII Immunogenicity“ (EDUC8 ) 32 37 The EDUC8 program is a multidisciplinary training program with exposure of the enrolled ESRs to a core common educational package and development of individual PhD researchprojects dedicated to decreasing the societal burden associated with the development of anti-FVIII antibodies in Europe.

Marie Curie Innovative Training Network "Research and Training in Early Life Nutrition to Prevent Disease" (GROWTH)

GROWTH is an Innovative Training Network that aims to train young business-oriented researchers in developing pathological insights, biomarker diagnostics and personalized nutritional interventions for intestinal failure in neonates and preterm infants.

Tools4Teams - "Research Training to Design and Implement Tools Supporting Safe Teamwork in Healthcare"

The Tools4Teams research project will prepare the next generation of teamwork experts to contribute new insights and smart technologies for safe and effective care. Tools4Teams brings together expertise from social and technical sciences, human-centered design, education, and clinical specialties.

Trinational Graduate College "Mass and Integration in Antique Societies" [in German/French] Supported by the Deutsch-Französische Hochschule since 2011, the tri-national Graduate School in Ancient History offers curriculum events in Bonn, Berne, and Strasbourg.

Structured Doctoral Programs by Discipline

Find the right structured doctoral program at the University of Bonn in your discipline here:

• Cross-Disciplinary Options
• Medicine and Life Sciences
• Mathematics and Natural Sciences
• Agriculture

Faculties at the University of Bonn work together to design interdisciplinary programs that combine key perspectives and offer unique insights.

Cross-Disciplinary Programs

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) 42 Unique in Europe, BIGS-DR links perspectives from the Faculties of Philosophy, Agriculture, and Law and Economics – with an international focus.

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) 8 8 A collaboration between the University’s Faculty of Medicine and Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, as well as external partners, BIGS Neuroscience offers a medical program alongside five research areas in medicine.

SciMed Doctoral College 43 42 The Doctoral College offers scientific training for students in medicine and dental medicine, leading to a dual Dr. med. and Dr. med. dent. degree.

Researchers at the University of Bonn explore a wide variety of issues in economics, including game theory, applied microeconomics, monetary and international macroeconomics, contract theory, labor economics and finance.

Economics Programs

Bonn Graduate School of Economics (BGSE) BGSE offers a structured program that is tailored to the needs of doctoral candidates, including an internationally recognized research network.

DFG Research Training Group "Die Macroeconomics of Inequality" (GRK 2281) The research program focuses on the macroeconomic aspects of inequality, an aspect of first-order importance for society. 

Law Programs

Graduate School of Law and Political Science Department of Law The Graduate School of the Faculty of Law and Political Science was founded in the summer semester of 2018 and supports the doctoral students in preparing their doctoral studies.

The University of Bonn’s Faculty of Medicine offers doctoral programs in medical biochemistry, neurosciences and pharmacology. With the exception of the SciMed Doctoral College, all programs are administered in cooperation with the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

Cross-Disciplinary Program

SciMed Doctoral College The Doctoral College offers scientific training for students in medicine and dental medicine, leading to a dual Dr. med. and Dr. med. dent. degree.

Neuroscience

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease (SFB 1089) Supported by the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft – DFG) collaborative research centers, this integrated research training group works to identify fundamental rules that govern neuronal behavior at the network level and translate network dynamics to mammalian and human behavior.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior A joint venture of the University of Bonn, the Max-Planck-associated Center of Advanced European Studies and Research, the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience, and Florida Atlantic University, this graduate school offers a complete doctoral and research program in the neurosciences.

Marie Curie Initial Training Network "modelling and pRedicting Human decision-making Using Measures of subconscious Brain processes through mixed reality interfaces and biOmetric signals" (RHUMBO) RHUMBO proposes using measures of subconscious brain processes through the use of mixed reality technologies (MRT) and advanced biometric signals processing as a new paradigm to improve the knowledge that implicit brain processes have in human decision-making.

Pharma Research

Bonn International Graduate School of Drug Sciences (BIGS DrugS) Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

Pharmacology of 7TM-Receptors and Downstream Signaling Pathways (GRK 1873) Supported by DFG, this group combines expertise in the areas of pharmacology and pharmacy.

Bonn International Graduate School of Immunosciences and Infection

This three-year doctoral program is offered in conjunction with the University's ImmunoSensation Cluster , which is funded by Germany’s Excellence Initiative.

DFG Research Training Group "Myeloid antigen presenting cells and the induction of adaptive immunity" GRK (2168) The DFG-funded project is a cooperation of the University of Bonn and the University of Melbourne.

At the University of Bonn’s Faculty of Arts, you’ll find a highly international environment with students and researchers in a wide range of fields.

German Studies, Comparative Literature and Culture 

Structured Doctoral Program in German Studies (SPP) [website in German] Taught in German, the SPP supports doctoral candidates’ initiatives within the Institute for German, Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies.

German-Italian Doctoral College [website in German] Taught in German, this three-year grant program provides structured doctoral studies for researchers in German and Italian, with time in both Bonn and Florence.

History and Ancient History 

Mass and Integration in Antique Societies [website in German and French] Supported by Franco-German University and taught in German and French, this trinational doctoral program includes study in Bonn; Berne, Switzerland; and Strasbourg, France.

Oriental and Asian Studies Bonn

International Graduate School of Oriental and Asian Studies (BIGS-OAS) BIGS-OAS offers a wide range of courses within a research context, focused on the cultures and societies of Asia and Asia Minor.

Romance Studies

Italian Studies [website in German and Italian] Offered in cooperation with the Universities of Florence and Paris-Sorbonne IV, this trinational doctoral program is taught in German and Italian.

Structured DPhil program at the Faculty of Arts The program supports qualified doctoral candidates from all disciplines in their doctoral projects. It provides the opportunity for networking, interdisciplinary exchange in diverse social sciences and humanities subjects, progress monitoring and financial support for travel, workshops or research funding as part of the doctorate.

European Founding Myths in Literature, Arts and Music [website in German, French and Italian] This trinational program is jointly organized by the Universities of Bonn, Florence and Paris-Sorbonne IV and taught in German, French and Italian.

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research, BIGS-DR trains students for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

The University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences offers numerous externally funded doctoral programs in areas including mathematics and informatics, physics, biology, pharmacology and molecular biomedicine.

Programs in neuroscience, pharma research, immunoscience, and infection and molecular biomedicine are offered in cooperation with the Faculty of Medicine.

Mathematics

Bonn International Graduate School of Mathematics (BIGS-M) 2 2 Located at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, BIGS-M is home to all of the University’s doctoral candidates in mathematics and contributes to Bonn’s excellent international reputation in the field.

International Max Planck Research School on Moduli Spaces 53 53 This program includes courses, seminars and activities focused on the geometric spaces whose points represent fixed algebro-geometric objects (or isomorphism classes of such objects).

Physics und Astronomy

Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS) 4 4 Supported by Germany’s Excellence Initiative and jointly administered by the renowned Physics Institutes at the Universities of Bonn and Cologne, BCGS offers doctoral studies through an integrated honors program.

International Max Planck Research School of Astronomy and Astrophysics 55 55 This program offers a broad spectrum of topics in observational and theoretical galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, observational and theoretical cosmology, and fundamental physics – using astronomical tools and instrumentation.

Leibniz Graduate School on Genomic Biodiversity Research Based at Bonn’s Alexander Koenig Research Museum, this school is focused primarily on insect genome evolution.

Bonn International Graduate School of Chemistry (BIGS Chemistry) 57 57 BIGS Chemistry offers an internationally competitive doctoral program and opportunities to perform cutting-edge research.

Neurosciences

Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience (BIGS Neuroscience) 8 8 BIGS Neuroscience provides a top-level, internationally competitive program in this rapidly growing field.

Synaptic Micronetworks in Health and Disease (SFB 1089) 22 22 Supported by DFG collaborative research centers, this integrated research training group works to identify fundamental rules that govern neuronal behavior at the network level and translate network dynamics to mammalian and human behavior.

International Max Planck Research School for Brain and Behavior 29 29 The IMPRS for Brain & Behavior is a cooperation between the Max Planck Institute for Neurobiology of Behavior - caesar, the University of Bonn and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Bonn.

Bonn International Graduate School of Drug Sciences (BIGS DrugS) 6 6 Home to an international community of talented biomedical scientists, BIGS DrugS is the hub for doctoral candidates from pharma research institutes within the University’s Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences and Faculty of Medicine.

Pharmacology of 7TM-Receptors and Downstream Signaling Pathways (GRK 1873) 18 18 Supported by DFG, this group combines expertise in the areas of pharmacology and pharmacy.

BIGS Immunoscience and Infection A structured, three-year doctoral program, IITB is offered in conjunction with the ImmunoSensation Cluster at the University of Bonn.

Doctoral candidates in the field of agriculture may choose to study through the Faculty of Agriculture’s Theodor Brinkmann Graduate School or earn their degree through the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research.

Agriculture Programs

Bonn International Graduate School for Land and Food (BIGS Land and Food)  Founded in 2008, the Brinkmann School is home to master's and doctoral candidates in the Faculty of Agriculture, combining research with an interdisciplinary study program.

Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) 12 Part of the University of Bonn’s Center for Development Research 59 , BIGS-DR trains researchers for an international career in development cooperation, policy or research through a combination of academic study and intensive tutorship.

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PhD Studies & Research

Science and research in Germany are characterised by a distinguished infrastructure, a wide variety of disciplines, well-equipped research facilities and competent staff. Germany offers various career opportunities for international PhD students and researchers.

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PhD Studies

Planning your phd, eligibility and application, german or english medium, living as a student, working in germany, get guidance.

With a long tradition of research and ground breaking discoveries, Germany is indeed a land of innovation and progress. Besides giving your ideas a research-based boost, Germany also offers promising career opportunities along with a vibrant social and cultural milieu. So like for many other international students, it can be the right place to pursue a doctoral degree for you too!

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Starting your doctoral studies is a big step in your academic life. Along with identifying your research area you also have to plan where and in which institute you want to pursue your PhD.

Where does research take place in Germany?

Contemplating pursuing a PhD in Germany?  There are a number of universities, research institutions and business houses that will welcome you. So getting an insight into the research landscape of the country is of paramount importance!

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Research is extensively carried out by and through universities, research organisations and the industry. These three are famously known as the three pillars of research in Germany.

You can take a closer look at this on  Research in Germany .

Which universities should I look at for PhD?

There are various kinds of institutions of higher education in Germany. A majority of these belong to either of the following categories:

Universities and Universities of Technology (TU), are research-oriented and offer a wide variety of subjects. These are the only establishments that can award a PhD degree.

In case you are carrying out your PhD at a research organisation/ University of Applied Sciences, it will always be through a partner university/TU that you will get your degree. Therefore it is important that you fulfill the eligibility criteria of the university/TU as well.

Before you finalise a university or a research institution make sure to check out their websites to know what kind of research is already going on there.

Which is the best university in Germany?

There is no “best university”, neither in one subject and certainly not across all subjects.

DAAD India © CHE Ranking

Germany offers a multidimensional ranking, considering various criteria that are important from a student’s perspective. For example, student and staff judgments on quality of teaching, atmosphere at the university, library and other equipment, student numbers, average study duration, number of graduations, third party funding etc. This way you get a detailed picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each university on university-ranking.de . Here you can find your programme by selecting a subject, a university or even a city in Germany!

As a researcher you should also take the research rankings  into consideration. The criteria for such rankings could be research infrastructure, citations, patents, publications and student reviews, to name a few.

How should I plan my doctorate?

If you have set your mind on a PhD in Germany, you can consider two approaches: the traditional approach i.e. individual doctorate and the structured doctoral programmes.

Individual doctoral studies involve identifying a supervisor ( Doktorvater / Doktormutter ) at a German university who is willing to guide your research. This system offers a lot of freedom, and calls for a great deal of personal initiative right from identifying a topic in your research field. This kind of doctorate takes about 3-5 years to complete.

Structured PhD programmes  are internationally oriented, conducted largely in English and are comparable to PhD programmes offered in English-speaking countries. Here supervision is carried out by several university teachers. These programmes lead to a PhD in about three years.

What if I want to do a part of my PhD research in Germany?

The research Grant: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle which is also famously known as DAAD Sandwich Scholarship lets you complete your PhD in two countries. The first country being your home country where you are registered as a doctoral student and the second country is but naturally Germany.

You are supervised at your home university as well as at the host institute in Germany. Your doctoral degree is awarded by the home institution. This is the well known “sandwich model”.

While generally as a Master degree holder you will have ticked off the first major requirement, it is always a good idea to check if the university’s requirements and your qualifications match. And then you can start with the application procedure.

Am I eligible to apply for a PhD?

In Germany, every university is autonomous. This means that every university/ study programme has its own set of criteria for admitting students. So please check the university website, and specifically the programme you are interested in. Here you will find the exact admission requirements.

However, some generalisation is  possible. As a Master degree holder from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal or Sri Lanka your degree is treated at par with a German Master degree. In some cases, further assessment of eligibility will be required. Do clarify the matter of eligibility with the university or the research organisation of your choice before you send in your application.

Some universities may ask for the proof of your English language proficiency in form of TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some universities may ask for good German language skills depending upon subject of your research. In such cases, your knowledge of German needs to be certified through examinations like the TestDaF  or DSH.

How do I go about applying for a PhD?

• PhD Germany   – A portal where German universities advertise openings for doctoral positions
• An interactive database of  Graduate Schools at German universities
• Research Training Groups  coordinated by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
• International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) Academicians from your country who have collaborations with German academicians or your seniors who might be carrying out research in Germany can be a great source of information too!
• Contact and convince a supervisor. Make sure that you approach a potential supervisor the right way and in good time – a brief and well-structured communication with an overview of your research proposal and relevant information about yourself is more likely to get you the right kind of response than a simple email stating that you are interested in doing a PhD!
• Communicate information about your background, academic performance and academic goals.
• Get a letter of acceptance from your supervisor.
• Identify a programme. Contact the selected university. This will be your most important source of information as far as exact details about eligibility, programme structure, fee, application procedure etc. are concerned.
• Check the application deadline for the programme chosen!
• Application forms and other relevant material can be downloaded from the respective university website.
• Send the application packet.
• Get a confirmation of admission.
• The Admission procedures vary for different universities and for different programmes.
• Check about these with the university of your choice or your supervisor.
• Make sure you have a valid passport!
• Apply for a student visa as soon as you have the admission letter, as the procedure can take 8 to 12 weeks. The German Embassy and the Consulates require proof of funding for the first year of studies. At this stage make sure if you need to get the APS certificate ( www.aps-india.de ) that some universities/host professors may insist upon. To find out where you should apply for a visa, visit the website of the Germany Embassy in your country.
• Apply for a place in a hostel. In some cases the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of the university will help you.
• Arrive in Germany at least a week before your course begins.
• Contact the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of your university for guidance.
• Step 6 Get your residence permit within the first three months of your stay in Germany from the Foreigners’ Registration Office ( Ausländeramt ).

Germany offers education in German as well as in English. Different subject fields can have different language requirements.

Can I do my PhD completely in English medium?

Germany offers close to 200 structured international programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction. These programmes are called International Programmes.

Few of these programmes may require students to have learnt/learn some German language during their PhD.

Must I learn German for my PhD?

As you have already seen, Germany offers numerous PhD programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction and the language for your thesis. English is also accepted as a language of research and education in Germany.

However, some universities/ subject fields may expect you to have German language proficiency for your PhD.

As a student in Germany, your life will not be limited to the university campus. You will surely want to interact with people, travel through the country-side and make the best of your time there. This is where knowledge of German will present a great advantage!

Universities offer beginner and well as advanced level courses where you can learn German. You can also start learning the language while you are still in your home country at a  Goethe-Institut (Max Mueller Bhavan) / Goethe-Zentrum.

Do I require to learn German for DAAD scholarship?

To apply for the DAAD PhD scholarship knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. However, after getting the scholarship you will be expected to complete a DAAD sponsored German course. This will help you with your life Germany.

While in a foreign country being able to manage your finances on your own is very important. You would need to plan your budget by keeping your living expenses, travel costs and tuition fees if any in mind.

What kind of budget should I have in my mind?

Fees: As a PhD scholar in Germany, you are exempted from tuition fees. You will need to pay a semester contribution of around Euro 300, depending upon the university and the services or benefits provided.

Living costs : Apart from the tuition fees, if any,  you will require about EUR 934 per month for subsistence i.e. housing, food, clothing, study material and other expenses such as health insurance and leisure activities. The precise split up for this amount will be updated soon. The amounts can vary from city to city, and of course from lifestyle to lifestyle!

The following table shows the split up at the time of the last budget indicated in 2019.

Source: German Student Union (Deutsches Studentenwerk), 2019 

How can I finance my doctorate?

If you are participating in a structured doctoral programme and doing your doctorate at a graduate school, research centre or research training group, the issue of funding is usually resolved with you either working as a research assistant or receiving a scholarship of about EUR 1,000 per month.

If you are pursuing your doctorate on the basis of the traditional approach, you can apply for a job as a research assistant, if there is vacancy.

Working as a research/doctoral assistant involves collaboration in research/teaching and doing administrative work in addition to completing the dissertation. Non-university research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and also some companies offer doctoral candidates employment and / or fund their doctoral dissertations.

The DAAD offers the most extensive scholarship programme.  Also a number of foundations support international candidates approved for the doctoral process. A database of scholarships offered by various German organisations can be found at  www.funding-guide.de .

What is a DAAD PhD scholarship like and how can I apply for it?

If you are a well-motivated researcher with high-calibre this research grant supports your complete doctoral studies in Germany. In general the duration of your PhD should not exceed more than four years.

If you have already registered for PhD in your home country and would like to carry out a part of the research in Germany, you may consider applying for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle scholarship of the DAAD .

An independent selection committee consisting of specialist scientists reviews your applications, wherein your academic qualification, quality of your research project is checked along with your career prospects, motivation and extra curricular activities including your civic engagement.

If you want to do your full PhD in Germany DAAD PhD Scholarship would be more relevant for you. The application deadline is 20 October every year. This is for scholarship starting from October of the following year.

Here is a step-by-step guideline for your application process:

• Collect general information about the DAAD PhD scholarship.
• Thoroughly check the eligibility criteria.
• Attend information sessions or internet-based seminars (webinars) organised by the DAAD.
• Once you have the letter of acceptance from your supervisor/admission letter from your university, complete the application procedure as specified in the scholarship announcement.
• The application deadline typically falls in the month of October the current year for a PhD beginning in the next year.
• Shortlisted applicants from India will be invited for a personal interview around January-February. For Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka the procedure will be announced closer to the date of interviews.
• The final decision will be announced for applicants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka around mid or end of April of the following year.
• Step 4 Once selected, you will have to attend a mandatory German language course, which is a necessary and important part of your scholarship.
• Step 5 After the successful completion of your language course in Germany, your PhD will begin in October.

Living on your own comes with lots of responsibilities, at the same time it can also be very  interesting. It starts with finding a place to stay, learning how to cook, shopping on a budget, making friends and connections. Hope this section helps you with some of your questions.

How do I find accommodation?

Germany offers various types of accommodations:

• Students hall of residence:  Here you can rent rooms provided by  Student Services Organisation ( Studentenwerk ). They are low in cost and preferred by many students. Studentenwerk also provides specially designed Service Kits for international students. Get in touch with Studentenwerk of your city know more.
• Shared Flats ( Wohngemeinschaft – WG) : Shared flat or WG is another affordable accommodation, where you have your own room in a flat and share the kitchen and the bathroom with other flatmates. Living in a shared flat is cheaper as the rent and other expenses  get shared. You can find advertisements for vacancies in WGs online on social media groups or on student-friendly websites.
• Private apartments:  If you prefer living alone, private apartments can be an option for you.  You can find them with the help of Studentenwerk, on boards in the university foyer or even on social media groups and websites for rental real estate.

Make sure to be on the lookout from early on, so that you find the best place at an affordable price.

How do I connect with other students?

Connecting with other students can help you to learn from their experience. It may also help you get acquainted with the lifestyle, once you are in Germany.

• Get in touch with  DAAD Young Ambassadors . They have studied or carried out their research in Germany. Contact them with your questions, they will be happy to guide you!
• You can also find out about various student associations and groups formed by students of your country/ region.
• You can contact students on various socials media platforms as well. There are groups based on nationalities or interests and activities.
• Many universities arrange introductory events. Ask the international office of your university about them. Research institutions too generally run such initiatives.

You can of course work in Germany as long as you follow the regulations, which are not complex and are easy to understand.

Can I work in Germany as a student?

As an international student, you are permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. This will help you in getting a bit of extra pocket-money!OK

Can I work in Germany after my studies?

After completing your degree in Germany, you can choose from amongst a wide range of options:

You can stay on in the country for up to 1.5 years to look for a job that is in keeping with your education. Once you find a job, the residence permit issued to you for the purpose of studying, can be converted into a residence permit for taking gainful employment.

Germany has always had a very strong industry-academia linkage. A lot of scientific research is funded by the industry as well. During your studies you can get the opportunity to do internships with German companies, which can open new vistas for your professional career.

In Germany, a doctorate is a prerequisite for a career in research or higher education. Your options include:

• Teaching/Research Assistantships
• Postdoc Positions
• Research Positions in Industry

The portal  www.academics.com has Germany’s biggest online job market for researchers. There are also scholarships for Postdocs offered by the  Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation  and other organizations.

Whether you are in India, Nepal or Bhutan, the DAAD is there to help you with your study in Germany plans. Check out how you can reach us!

Individual Appointments

You can connect with the DAAD offices online or offline in Bengaluru ,  Chennai ,  New Delhi  and  Pune .

Information Sessions

The DAAD offers free of cost information session about studying in Germany regularly. Check which dates and topics suit you, register and join!

Click here for dates, timings and registration links: www.daad.in/events .

Writing a Research Proposal

Take a look at the DAAD’s guidelines for writing research proposal

Research Proposal writing: Guidelines 2023

PhD Proposal Writing Workshop

Wondering how to write a PhD proposal? The DAAD offers PhD Proposal Writing Workshop on various topics for aspirants who intend to pursue their doctorate in Germany!

Early Career Research Symposia

The  Early Career Research Symposia offer you a platform to help you propel your research, amplify its reach and get inspired by exchange of ideas.

• Did you find the information about  doctoral studies in Germany useful? Keep the digital  PhD brochure with you, so that it is all handy!
• You will also find the digital brochure Research Proposal Guidelines 2023 useful.
• There is comfort  and certainty in numbers. With the fact sheet Germany India 2022 you can check out actual number of Indian students, what fields they are opting for and which universities they have preferred.

Ph.D scholarships in Germany for International students 2024-2025

Find Ph.D scholarships for international students to study in Germany 2024-2025.

Hertie School Doctoral Programme in Governance for International Students 2024

With a PhD obtained in Doctoral Programme in Governance, students are at the cutting edge of social science knowledge in a field that has emerged as one of the most important and dynamic fields of inquiry. It brings together perspectives from economics, political science, law, and sociology, an

Published: 19 Dec 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 Feb 2024

DAAD Research Grants – Short-Term Grants for Doctoral and Postdocs Candidates 2024

DAAD grants for doctoral candidates and young scientists and academics wishing to carry out research and continue their education in Germany for up to 6 months The primary aim of this programme is to promote research projects within the context of doctoral programmes. The scholarships are funded

Published: 06 Nov 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Mar 2024

DAAD 2023 Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany for Young Foreign Academics

DAAD research grants provide young foreign academics and scientists with an opportunity to carry out research and continue their education in Germany. There are funding programmes for various qualification phases and stages in a career. The grants also promote the exchange of experience and networki

Published: 05 Sep 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 20 Oct 2023

University Of Bonn 2023 BIGS-DR Doctoral Scholarship Program for Developing Countries

The Bonn International Graduate School for Development Research (BIGS-DR) is the doctoral program at ZEF. BIGS-DR is part of a group of international graduate programs at the University of Bonn, a graduate framework that maintains the highest level of academic quality. There are two way

Published: 09 May 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 31 Aug 2023

Leibniz Institute of European History (IEG) 2024 Fellowships for Doctoral Students, Germany

These are open to PhD students from Germany and abroad who have at least a Masters level degree in history, theology or another discipline which works historically. They must have been pursuing their doctorate for no more than three years at the time of the appliaction deadline, substantiated except

Published: 04 Apr 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Aug 2023

Beyond Borders 2023 Scholarships for Different Stages of Ph.D. Research, Germany

Beyond Borders invite applications from Ph.D. students worldwide studying borders and bordering phenomena in different regions of the world for Beyond Borders Scholarships. BEYOND BORDERS supports research about borders and boundaries in past and present times. It promotes interdiscipli

Published: 23 Feb 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

Beyond Borders 2023 PhD Scholarships

Beyond Borders’ invites applications from Ph.D. students worldwide studying borders and bordering phenomena in different regions of the world.  The Call for Scholarship Applications 2022 is open till 1 March 2022 and focuses on “Borders, Migration and Knowledge. ‘Beyond Bor

Published: 22 Feb 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 Mar 2023

Universität Hamburg 2023 Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School of Law

The structured PhD programme of the Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School of Law welcomes applications of graduates from both legal studies and other disciplines who are keen to produce ambitious doctoral work in an excellent research environment.

Published: 13 Feb 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Feb 2023

University of Bonn 2023 Argelander Scholarships for Doctoral Candidates from Developing Countries

Applications are open for the Argelander Scholarships for doctoral candidates from universities in the Global South. The aim is to provide funding for doctoral candidates from countries in Africa, Latin America and Asia in order to promote scientific exchange with partners, particularly in region

Published: 18 Jan 2023 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 01 May 2023

DAAD 2023 Graduate School Scholarship Program for PhD Students

The Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS) invites applications for 2 scholarships for international doctoral researchers in its new Graduate School Scholarship Program “Global Dynamics of Social Policy and Social Cohesion” (GSPSC), funded by the 

Published: 07 Dec 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 23 Jan 2023

DIW Berlin 2023 FULLY FUNDED 5 Years PhD Scholarship (Germany)

DIW Berlin 2023 FULLY FUNDED 5 Years PhD Scholarship Germany. is open for International Students . The scholarship allows PhD level programm(s) in the field of Economics, Business studies taught at German Institute for Economic Research . The deadline of the scholarship is 12 Feb 2023. DIW B

Published: 23 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 12 Feb 2023

University Of Hamburg 2023 PhD Scholarship (Germany)

Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. 

Published: 21 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

Freie University Berlin China Scholarship Council Doctoral Awards in Germany 2023

One highly successful example of the university’s efforts to recruit qualified junior scientists and scholars is its work with the China Scholarship Council (CSC). As part of a special program sponsored by the Chinese government, the CSC awards about 6,000 foreign scholarships each year to Chi

Published: 17 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Jan 2023

University Of Hamburg - Doctoral Scholarships in Germany, 2022

Doctoral scholarships at Universität Hamburg Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. We are happy to assist you with any

Published: 16 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 02 Dec 2022

University of Bayreuth 2023 BIGSAS-Scholarships for African Women Scholars (Germany)

BIGSAS has been awarded two scholarships within the Graduate School Scholarship Programme (GSSP) by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for which BIGSAS will nominate candidates who have successfully passed the application procedure.  BIGSAS provides a centre for creative a

Published: 01 Nov 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Dec 2022

Are you seeking doctoral funding? The University of Hamburg offers doctoral scholarships and grants of up to € 1.200 to (prospective) doctoral candidates studying at the University of Hamburg. We are happy to assist you with any questions regarding our scholarship!

Published: 03 Oct 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: Not Specified

DAAD United Nations University 2022 Doctoral Research Scholarship for Researchers

The United Nations University (UNU) is an international community of scholars engaged in policy-oriented research, capacity development and dissemination of knowledge in furthering the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations. The mission of UNU is to contribute, through research

Published: 05 Jul 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 10 Jul 2022

Universität Leipzig 2023 Joint MA & PhD Peace and Security in Africa Scholarships for African Students

Be part of a unique transnational MA & PhD experience in which you graduate from two prestigious universities in Africa and Europe. Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia and Leipzig University in Germany jointly offer a two year MA program AND a three year PhD Program that

Published: 18 May 2022 Type: PhD Study in: Germany Deadline: 15 Feb 2023

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Find your PhD position in Germany

Before you start your search ....

Before you start your search you should know that there are different PhD models:

• Individual doctorate  or
• Structured PhD programmes

What's the difference? Check out our  overview of the various ways to do your PhD in Germany  

Find your individual doctorate

The "traditional" or "individual" path to a PhD remains the most common in Germany. An individual doctorate involves a thesis or dissertation that is produced under the  supervision of one professor . This form of PhD study offers a great deal of  flexibility , but demands a high degree of  personal initiative  and responsibility.

How to find your PhD supervisor

In Germany there is no central admissions or selection office for doctoral students. Therefore, your first step is to find a suitable professor who is willing to be your supervisor.

One way to find a supervisor is to look for a university institute that matches your area of research. The following online search engines might help you find a suitable supervisor:

• GERiT – German research institutions GERiT is a website containing information on approximately 29,000 research institutions in Germany. GERiT allows the user to search easily by location or subject. It provides all the information needed to choose an institution at which to research, study or do a doctorate. www.gerit.org
• Finding a PhD position PhDGermany publishes PhD openings in Germany that specifically target international applicants. Accordingly, in most cases the working language is English. Fluent knowledge of German is only required for certain special positions. PhDGermany helps you find the right PhD opening or supervisor for your doctoral thesis and assists you with the online application process. www.phdgermany.de
• Higher Education Compass   This database provides up-to-date information from universities about doctoral opportunities in Germany. The search engine enables you to carry out targeted searches on the basis of departments, admission requirements and form of doctoral thesis. www.higher-education-compass.de

Furthermore,  your contacts with your professors or previous university  could help direct you to a suitable department or potential supervisor in Germany.

It is also helpful to attend  academic conferences  in your own subject area. There you will be able to exchange information and make contacts ­– and perhaps even find a future PhD supervisor.

Find your structured PhD programme

DAAD/Ausserhofer/Himsel

Structured PhD programmes in Germany are frequently very similar to the PhD programmes in English-speaking countries, in which a  team of supervisors  look after a  group of doctoral students . Around 12,000 doctoral students from abroad – roughly one in four – do their PhDs in structured programmes. As a rule, it is possible to complete a doctorate in four to five years.

Where to find your PhD programme

There is no central database of all structured PhD programmes in Germany. You can usually find these programmes directly through the respective universities, graduate schools or non-university research institutions. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) database is also a good place to look. Here you will find a large number of PhD programmes that are specially aimed at international doctoral students.

International doctoral programme database

Are you interested in an international doctoral programme in Germany? This DAAD database presents a selection of roughly 230 international doctoral programmes in Germany. The database can be searched according to different criteria.  www.daad.de/international-programmes 

Doctoral programmes at universities

Many universities offer structured doctoral programmes, which they publicise on their websites. The Student Advisory Service or Graduate Centre at the respective university will also provide help here. You can find the relevant addresses using the Higher Education Compass provided by the German Rectors’ Conference. www.higher-education-compass.de

​​​​​​​DFG-funded research training groups

Research training groups are also funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation, DFG) for a period of up to nine years. Their key emphasis is on the qualification of doctoral researchers within the framework of a focused research programme and a structured training strategy. www.dfg.de > Current Research Training Groups

Helmholtz Research Schools, Colleges and Graduate Schools

The Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation. In collaboration with various institutions of higher education, Helmholtz Association research centres have established structured PhD programmes under the auspices of Helmholtz Graduate Schools, Helmholtz Research Schools and Colleges.  www.helmholtz.de > PhD Candidates 

Leibniz Graduate Schools

The Leibniz Association connects 97 research institutes that conduct problem-oriented research and provide scientific infrastructure of national and international importance. Together with universities they run structured PhD programmes in Leibniz Graduate Schools. www.leibniz-association.eu > Leibniz Graduate Schools

International Max Planck Research Schools

The Max Planck Society specialises in innovative basic research and its institutes are able to offer up-and-coming researchers excellent infrastructure and support. The website lists the programmes available at International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS):  www.mpg.de > International Max Planck Research Schools  

Max Planck Schools

In Germany, the best researchers in a specific field are often work at different universities and non-university research institutions spread throughout the country. The Max Planck Schools serve as hubs which gather this distributed knowledge. Here, the brightest minds in their fields have come together from within the scientific community to interconnect in faculties made up of active researchers. Students gain access to these unique networks, learn in close personal exchange from leaders in their fields and their peers, and enjoy access to outstanding infrastructure. Currently, three Schools are operating in the fields of Cognition, Matter to Life, and Photonics. www.maxplanckschools.de

Where can I find out about requirements?

Application procedures  differ from programme to programme . The precise requirements and deadlines can be found on the website of the respective university, research training group or graduate school. You should therefore first choose a PhD programme and/or graduate school.

You've found the position you want to apply for, but how does applying to a potential supervisor or structured PhD programme work in Germany? Find out more here.

DAAD/Jan Zappner

We help you navigate through the large number of job portals that specialise in openings for academics and scientists. These are some of the sites that may get you started.

DAAD/Uta Konopka

Check out our brochure

Doing a phd in germany (2019, 40 pages).

This booklet for (prospective) international doctoral students presents the different options for doing a doctorate in Germany. It explains the formal requirements and gives some practical advice on finding the right supervisor or doctoral programme. It also outlines different sponsorship and funding options.

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Exzellenzausschreibungen - EXC 2020 Temporal CommunitiesResearch associate (postdoc) (m/f/d) full-time job limited to 31.12.2025 Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU reference code: EXC 2020_RT Postdoc_C_RA3_2024 Bewerbungsende: 15.04.2024

building, such as pertinent to magical realisms and speculative literature - An excellent doctoral thesis - A very good knowledge of both German and English (with a minimum competence in one

Assistant Professor (Juniorprofessor*in) with a focus on Anglophone Literatures and Cultures (W1 with Tenure Track to W3 LBesG) (f/m/d)

of Language, Literature and Media Studies invites applications for a tenured appointment in the field of English Studies as Assistant Professor (Juniorprofessorin/Juniorprofessor) with a focus on Anglophone

Fachbereich Philosophie und Geisteswissenschaften - Institut für Philosophie Graduiertenkolleg 263814 positions Doctoral researchers (m/f/d) with 65 % part-time job limited from 01.10.2024 till 30.09.2027 Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU Kennung: GRK2638_Doc_2024 Bewerbungsende: 22.04.2024

the expertise of 14 professors from the fields of art history, dance studies, film studies, law, linguistics, literature , musicology, philosophy, religious studies, and theater studies. Early-stage researchers in

Master Thesis, Bachelor Thesis, Scientific assistance, internship - Water reuse

. What you will do Literature , market and patent research on water filtration systems and microbial contamination of different types of water (with guidance from our scientific staff) including

W 3-Professur für Europäische Kunstgeschichte mit Schwerpunkt Mittelalter (w/m/d) - deutsch and english

English version see below: Am Institut für Europäische Kunstgeschichte am Zentrum für Europäische Geschichts- und Kulturwissenschaften der Universität Heidelberg ist ab dem 01.10.2025 eine W 3

Fachbereich Geschichts- und Kulturwissenschaften - Kunsthistorisches Institut ERC-Project CHINACADEMYResearch assistant (Postdoc) (m/f/d) full-time job limited to 4 years Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L FU reference code: OAKG-2024-WiMi-ERC Bewerbungsende: 15.04.2024

time of appointment. Desirable: - Expertise in modern Chinese art history - Excellent proficiency in Chinese and English - High motivation to collaborate with the other researchers in the team For more

Doctoral candidate (PhD) (65%; d/f/m)

of more resilient forest and agroforest systems in both countries. Job description: We are seeking a dedicated PhD candidate, who is interested in working with literature studies and reviews, field studies

Master Thesis - Synthesis of tandem catalysts for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction

and microstructural characterization of Cu-based CO2RR nanoparticle catalysts for the production of acetaldehyde. Your tasks will be: Literature research Synthesis of novel CO2RR catalysts with a focus

W3-Professorship in History and Theory of Cultural Technologies

professorship) in Media or Cultural Studies, or in a related subject from the field of literature , art theory or philosophy. Candidates are expected to display a comprehensive knowledge of current research

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