Apply for the DAAD Research Grants 2026 to conduct fully funded doctoral or postdoctoral research in Germany. Learn the eligibility criteria, funding value, duration, selection process, and how to apply.
Overview: DAAD Research Grants 2026
The DAAD Research Grants Programme offers international doctoral researchers and early-career postdocs the opportunity to carry out cutting-edge research at leading German universities and research institutes. Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, this scholarship supports academic excellence, international collaboration, and global research innovation.
For the 2026 funding year, DAAD is accepting applications for research stays beginning in 2026. The programme is open to researchers worldwide seeking to advance their academic careers and collaborate with German research institutions across all disciplines.
Detailed Sections
1. What the Programme Offers
The DAAD Research Grant allows selected scholars to conduct an independent research project in Germany in collaboration with a host supervisor. This includes:
- Research stays at state or state-recognized universities
- Research in German non-university research institutions
- Full alignment with a German host professor or research supervisor
- Structured academic support and research facilities
The programme is designed for both ongoing doctoral studies and early postdoctoral research.
2. Who Can Apply
You are eligible if:
- You are currently pursuing a doctorate outside Germany, or
- You completed your PhD within the past four years at the time of application
You are not eligible if:
- You are completing your entire doctorate at a German university
- You wish to split your stay between Germany and other countries
Applicants from all academic disciplines may apply.
3. Duration of the Funding
Funding duration depends on your academic status:
- Doctoral researchers: 2–12 months
- Postdoctoral researchers: 2–6 months
Important notes:
- The stay cannot be divided into separate segments
- All funded research periods must begin in 2026
- Extensions are not permitted
The selection committee determines the final duration based on your research schedule and feasibility.
4. Scholarship Value
The DAAD Research Grant provides extensive financial support:
Monthly Stipend
- €1,400 per month for all scholars
Additional Financial Support
- Health, accident, and personal liability insurance
- Travel allowance
- Research allowance: €460 (for stays over 6 months)
- Rent subsidy (for stays over 6 months)
- Family allowance (for stays over 6 months)
- Financial support for scholars with disabilities or chronic illnesses
- Green Mobility Top Up for climate-friendly travel
- Carbon offset reimbursement for necessary air travel
German Language Support
For funding periods over 6 months:
- Free online German language course after award
- Optional German language course in Germany before arrival (if needed)
- Allowance for German courses during your stay
- Reimbursement for TestDaF or DSH exam fees
5. Selection Criteria
Applicants are evaluated by an independent committee of academic experts. Selection is based on:
Academic Qualification
- Academic performance and grade development
- Language proficiency relevant to the research environment
- Publications, presentations, or academic achievements (if applicable)
Quality of the Research Proposal
- Originality and significance
- Feasibility and clarity of the research plan
- Appropriateness of the host institution
- Evidence of initial contact with a German supervisor
Applicant Potential
- Academic and career development prospects
- Motivation for conducting research in Germany
- Relevance of the project to long-term academic goals
- Engagement beyond academics
Equal Opportunity Considerations
DAAD encourages transparency and equal access; applicants may provide relevant information in their forms.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the DAAD Research Grant 2026, applicants must:
- Be doctoral candidates enrolled outside Germany, or
- Be postdoctoral researchers (up to 4 years after PhD completion)
- Have a confirmed German research supervisor
- Propose a feasible, high-quality research project
- Show adequate language skills in English or German
- Begin the funded research in 2026
- Submit a complete application before the deadline
Benefits of the DAAD Research Grant
- Fully funded research stay in Germany
- Monthly stipend (€1,400)
- Extensive health and accident insurance coverage
- Travel allowance
- Research funding and language course support
- Access to Germany’s world-leading research infrastructure
- Networking opportunities with global experts
- Family and disability support benefits (where eligible)
How to Apply
- Identify and contact a German research supervisor who agrees to support your project.
- Prepare your proposal, research plan, CV, academic transcripts, and necessary certificates.
- Draft your motivation letter and research description following DAAD guidelines.
- Obtain a letter of recommendation from your home university.
- Submit your application through the DAAD Portal before the deadline.
Ensure all documents are uploaded in the required format and language.
Summary Table | DAAD Research Grants 2026: Fully Funded Research Opportunities in Germany
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | DAAD Research Grants 2026 |
| Host Country | Germany |
| Funding Type | Fully funded |
| Eligible Applicants | Doctoral candidates (non-German universities) and postdocs |
| Duration | 2–12 months (PhD), 2–6 months (postdoc) |
| Monthly Stipend | €1,400 |
| Additional Benefits | Travel allowance, insurance, research allowance, language courses, rent and family subsidy |
| Start Date | All projects must begin in 2026 |
| Application Platform | DAAD Portal |
| Selection Basis | Academic quality, proposal strength, motivation, feasibility |
Conclusion
The DAAD Research Grants 2026 offer exceptional opportunities for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers to advance their work in Germany’s world-class academic and research environment. With full financial support, expert supervision, and access to advanced facilities, this programme is ideal for scholars seeking global exposure and long-term career advancement.
