The programme is designed for international doctoral candidates and early-career postdoctoral researchers who wish to complete part of their research project in Germany. Selected scholars receive a monthly scholarship, insurance contributions, travel assistance and, in certain cases, language training and family-related benefits.

With research activities required to begin in 2027, prospective applicants should start preparing their research proposal and identifying a suitable academic supervisor in Germany as early as possible.

What Are the DAAD Research Grants in Germany?

The DAAD Research Grants are offered by the German Academic Exchange Service, commonly known as DAAD. The programme supports qualified international researchers who want to undertake a research project at a German university or non-university research institution.

Applicants must arrange their research stay in cooperation with a scientific supervisor based in Germany. The proposed research project should be academically relevant, achievable within the requested duration and connected to the applicant’s doctoral or postdoctoral work.

The grant does not support students completing their entire doctoral degree at a German university. Instead, it focuses on temporary research stays for scholars primarily based outside Germany.

Who Can Apply for the DAAD Research Grants 2027?

The scholarship is open to international doctoral candidates and early postdoctoral researchers.

Doctoral candidates must normally be enrolled in a doctoral programme outside Germany. They may apply to conduct a specific part of their doctoral research at a German institution.

Postdoctoral applicants must have completed their doctorate within the last four years. Their proposed project should contribute to their ongoing academic or professional development.

Applicants must also secure approval or confirmation from a scientific supervisor at their chosen host institution in Germany. The host organisation must be a state-funded or state-recognised university or an eligible non-university research institute.

Researchers who are completing their full doctorate at a German university are not eligible under this programme.

DAAD Research Grant Duration

The funding period depends on the applicant’s current academic level.

Doctoral candidates may receive support for a research stay lasting between two and twelve months. Early postdoctoral researchers may receive funding for a period of two to six months.

The approved research period must begin in 2027. Once the scholarship duration has been approved, it generally cannot be divided into separate periods or extended.

Applicants should therefore create a realistic research schedule before submitting their application. The proposed duration should be long enough to complete the planned work while remaining consistent with the project’s objectives.

Financial Benefits and Scholarship Amount

Successful applicants receive a monthly scholarship payment of €1,400 during their approved funding period.

The programme also provides contributions towards health insurance, accident insurance and personal liability insurance. These benefits help reduce the financial and practical challenges associated with relocating to Germany for research.

For research stays lasting longer than six months, scholars may also be eligible for a travel allowance and a one-time research allowance of €460.

Depending on the scholar’s individual circumstances, additional support may become available after the funding period begins. This may include:

• A monthly rent subsidy
• Family or dependent allowance
• Additional assistance for researchers with disabilities
• Support for applicants with chronic illnesses

The exact value and availability of additional benefits may depend on the scholarship duration, personal circumstances and DAAD regulations.

German Language Support

Language preparation is one of the most valuable features of the DAAD Research Grants programme. Although many German universities and research institutes use English as a working language, knowledge of German can help scholars communicate more effectively and adjust to daily life.

For funding periods longer than six months, DAAD may provide financial support for an online German language course before the scholar arrives in Germany.

Eligible researchers may also receive support for an intensive German course in Germany before the research project begins. In some cases, DAAD may pay for a language course selected by the scholar during the scholarship period.

Fees for recognised German language examinations, including TestDaF and DSH, may also be reimbursed.

Applicants should clearly mention the language requirements of their research project and explain how language preparation will contribute to the successful completion of their work.

Green Mobility and Sustainable Travel Benefits

DAAD encourages scholarship recipients to consider environmentally responsible travel options through its Green Mobility Top Up benefits.

Researchers choosing climate-friendly transport may receive additional support for sustainable travel. Scholars travelling by air may also be able to claim assistance towards carbon offset costs.

These benefits reflect DAAD’s broader commitment to environmentally responsible international academic mobility.

Applicants should review the applicable mobility conditions carefully while planning their journey to Germany.

DAAD Research Grant Selection Criteria

Applications are evaluated by an independent selection committee consisting of specialist academics and researchers.

The assessment focuses on three major areas: the applicant’s academic qualifications, the quality of the proposed research project and the applicant’s overall potential.

Academic qualifications

The committee considers the applicant’s academic performance, educational progress and subject-specific knowledge. Language skills and scholarly achievements after graduation may also strengthen the application.

Publications, research papers, conference presentations, academic awards and participation in relevant projects can demonstrate the applicant’s research potential.

Quality of the research proposal

The research proposal is one of the most important parts of the application. It should clearly explain the research problem, objectives, methodology, expected outcomes and proposed timeline.

Reviewers evaluate the project’s originality, academic relevance and feasibility. They also consider whether the selected German institution offers suitable expertise, supervision and research facilities.

Applicant’s potential and future impact

The committee assesses how the research stay will contribute to the applicant’s future academic, professional and personal development.

Applicants should explain how the project will support their long-term goals, strengthen international cooperation and contribute to their field of study.

How to Prepare a Strong DAAD Application

Applicants should begin by identifying a German university, professor or research institute that matches their academic interests. Contacting a potential supervisor early can provide enough time to discuss the project and obtain the required confirmation.

The research plan should be focused, realistic and supported by a clear methodology. Applicants should avoid submitting a proposal that is too broad for the requested scholarship duration.

Academic records, recommendation letters, research experience and publications should be presented clearly. Every document should support the applicant’s suitability for the proposed project.

Candidates should also check the official DAAD scholarship database for the latest application deadlines, country-specific requirements and document formats before applying.

Why Researchers Should Consider Germany

Germany offers an internationally respected higher education system, advanced laboratories and a wide network of specialised research institutes.

Researchers can work with experienced academics, use modern research infrastructure and participate in international academic communities. A research stay in Germany can also lead to future collaborations, joint publications and improved career opportunities.

The DAAD Research Grants in Germany 2027 provide more than financial support. They offer international scholars an opportunity to expand their knowledge, build professional networks and strengthen their global research profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is eligible for the DAAD Research Grants in Germany 2027?

International doctoral candidates studying outside Germany and researchers who completed their doctorate within the last four years may apply. Applicants must have a research project and a scientific supervisor at an eligible German institution.

2. What is the monthly scholarship amount?

Selected doctoral and postdoctoral researchers receive a monthly scholarship payment of €1,400, along with contributions towards health, accident and personal liability insurance.

3. How long does the DAAD Research Grant last?

Doctoral candidates may receive funding for two to twelve months. Postdoctoral researchers may receive funding for two to six months. The research stay must begin in 2027.

4. Is German language proficiency compulsory?

German proficiency may not be compulsory when the research project is conducted in English. However, applicants must meet the language requirements of their host institution and research project. DAAD may provide German language course support for eligible scholars.

5. Can the scholarship fund a complete PhD in Germany?

No. This programme is intended for temporary research stays. Applicants completing their entire doctoral programme at a German university are not eligible under this particular DAAD research grant.