DAAD Research Grants — Doctoral Programmes in Germany
by German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Stipend
1,400 EUR/month (from 2026)
Duration
Up to 3 years initially, extendable to 4 years
Level
PhD
Deadline
Varies by subject area — typically October to January. Check DAAD scholarship database for exact dates.
Overview
DAAD doctoral grants fund international students pursuing a full PhD at a German university or research institute. Grants are initially awarded for up to 3 years with annual performance review and possible extension to 4 years.
Provider
German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
Type
government Scholarship
Who Can Apply
All international students (including Indian students)
Degree Levels
PhD
Benefits & Financial Support
Funding Amount
1,400 EUR/month (from 2026) + 460 EUR/year research allowance + insurance + travel
About
This scholarship programme offers the opportunity to complete a doctoral degree in Germany. Grants are initially awarded for a maximum of three years, with yearly academic assessment to confirm continued funding. Your academic achievements are assessed once a year, and if you are on track to complete successfully, the scholarship continues as planned.
Benefits
- Monthly stipend of 1,400 EUR (from 2026; previously 1,300 EUR)
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance
- Annual research allowance of 460 EUR
- Monthly rent subsidy (under certain circumstances)
- Monthly allowance for accompanying family members
Eligibility
- Completed Master's degree (or equivalent)
- Clearly defined research project and confirmed supervisor at a German institution
- Degree must have been completed no more than 6 years before application
- Open to all nationalities including Indian students
Eligibility Requirements
- Completed Master's degree (no more than 6 years prior)
- confirmed doctoral supervisor in Germany
- clearly defined research project
- language proficiency as required by programme.
What This Scholarship Covers
Living Allowance
Monthly stipend for rent, food, and daily expenses
Health Insurance
Mandatory health, accident, and liability insurance
Travel Allowance
Contribution toward flights to and from Germany
Study Materials
Annual allowance for books and study supplies
How to Apply
Check Eligibility
Verify you meet the nationality, degree level, academic, and language requirements listed above.
Prepare Documents
Gather your academic transcripts, degree certificates, CV, letters of recommendation, language certificates, and motivation letter.
Find a Programme
Identify the German university and programme you want to study. Some scholarships require university admission before applying.
Submit Application
Apply through the official application portal before the deadline. Upload all required documents as PDFs.
Interview & Selection
If shortlisted, attend an interview (may be online). Selection committees assess academic merit, motivation, and fit.
Receive Decision
Scholarship decisions typically arrive 3–6 months after the deadline. If awarded, complete visa and enrolment procedures.
Application Document Checklist
- Completed application form
- Curriculum vitae (CV / resume)
- Motivation letter / statement of purpose
- Bachelor's or Master's degree certificate
- Academic transcripts with grades
- Language proficiency certificate (IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH)
- Letter(s) of recommendation from university professors
- Valid passport copy
- Passport-sized photograph
- University admission letter (if already accepted)
Note: Exact document requirements vary. Always check the official scholarship page for the definitive list.
Need Help With Your Application?
Scholarship applications are competitive — a strong profile evaluation, polished SOP, and the right university selection make the difference. GradGermany's experts can help at every step.
Quick Facts
- Amount
- 1,400 EUR/month (from 2026) + 460 EUR/year research allowance + insurance + travel
- Duration
- Up to 3 years initially, extendable to 4 years
- Degree Levels
- PhD
- Deadline
- Varies by subject area — typically October to January. Check DAAD scholarship database for exact dates.
- Who Can Apply
- All international students (including Indian students)
Frequently Asked Questions About the DAAD Research Grants — Doctoral Programmes in Germany
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