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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.

Dr. Robert Radu

[email protected]

+49 228 73-60222

Poppelsdorfer Allee 47

Office Hours

Questions about the structured doctorate? Register for the (virtual) office hours and get advice:

• Tuesday 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m.

Additional Qualification: Doctorate plus

Expand your skills with our training program Doctorate plus.

Learn about the numerous funding opportunities and grants for doctoral students.

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Find out what's new and see upcoming events.

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• Dahlem Research School

Dahlem Research School (DRS) is the central contact point for current and prospective doctoral researchers. DRS offers individual advice, an extensive qualification program and information on all general aspects of doctoral research. Special consideration is given to the needs of international researchers.

• Step by Step towards the Doctorate
• DRS Course Program for Doctoral Researchers
• Una Europa Early Career Host Program

Funded by the German Academic Exchange Service Freie Universität Berlin offers support for doctoral researchers who wish to gain experience in hosting scientific workshops, developed and organized with participants of other universities within the Una Europa network.

• FUB-CSC-Program

In cooperation with the China Scholarship Council (CSC), Freie Universität Berlin offers qualified chinese young academics the opportunity for a PhD or postdoctoral scholarship.

Mobility for Doctoral Researchers: Direct Exchange

Within the so-called "Direct Exchange" doctoral researchers can apply for research stays at prestigious partner universities of Freie Universität Berlin and gain new intercultural experiences.

• General Information
• Application Dates

Mobility: Erasmus+ Europe and Worldwide

As part of Erasmus+ enrolled doctoral researchers at Freie Universität Berlin can apply for student mobility, teaching stays and internships in Europa and beyond. Doctoral researchers with an employment contract can also participate in training stays.

• Erasmus+ Teaching and Training Stays
• Erasmus+ Internships
• Erasmus+ Student Mobility (if places available)
• PROMOS Academic Courses and Language Classes

Doctoral researchers at Freie Universität Berlin can participate in the mobility program for students at German universities (PROMOS) and apply for funding to participate in individually organized academic courses (summer & winter schools) and language classes. Please note that conference travel can not be funded!

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Doctoral degree programs

The University of Stuttgart has graduate schools, PhD research groups, and doctoral degree programs in an interdisciplinary research environment for doctoral researchers from Germany and abroad.

The University of Stuttgart offers multiple structured programs leading to a doctoral degree in a variety of subjects. Please refer to the respective homepages of individual programs to find out how to apply.

Cooperative doctoral degree programs Thanks to the University of Stuttgart’s cooperation with both post-secondary technical schools (universities of applied sciences that lack the right to confer doctorates) and with private sector companies, students in cooperative doctoral degree programs get an excellent scientific education with strong practical relevance. As a student in one of these programs, you will have two supervisors, one from the University and one other from the technical school or business enterprise.

Doctoral Degree Programs

Cooperative doctoral degree programs.

Engineering and Natural Sciences

• German-French doctoral student research group: Analyse intelligenter Systeme unter Berücksichtigung von Mehrfeldkopplungen
• Doctoral student research group: Aerothermodynamic design of a scramjet propulstion system for future space transportation systems
• Graduate School: Advanced Manufacturing Engineering (GSaME)
• Graduate School: Simulation Technology (SimTech)
• Graduiertenkolleg: Intelligent Methods for Test and Reliability (GS-IMTR)
• International doctoral degree studies program: Environment Water (ENWAT)
• Integrated doctoral student program: CRC/TRR Biological Design and Integrative Structures
• Integrated doctoral student program: Interface-Driven Multi-Field Processes in Porous Media (IRTG-IMPM)
• International Research Training Group: Droplet Interaction Technologies (DROPIT)
• Graduate and Research School: Efficient Use of Energy Stuttgart (GREES)
• Research Training Group 2543: Intraoperative Multisensoric Tissue Differentiation in Oncology

Completed projects

• Doctoral student research group: Non-linearities and upscaling in porous media (NUPUS)
• Graduate School  KIC InnoEnergy , a European consortium for promoting sustainable energy supply that has some 160 partners from industry, universities, research facilites and business schools. The University of Stuttgart is one of its founding members.
• Doctoral degree studies research group: HYBRID (University of Stuttgart, Esslingen University, Daimler AG, Robert Bosch GmbH)
• Doctoral degree studies research group: PROMISE 4.0 – Intelligent production systems and methods in the Industry 4.0 context for smaller and mid-size enterprises (University of Stuttgart, Esslingen University, Aalen University, Heilbronn University) (in formation).
• Doctoral degree studies research group: Windy Cities (University of Stuttgart, Stuttgart Technology University, Esslingen University)
• Doctoral degree studies research group: Robert Bosch Center for Power Electronics
• Doctoral degree studies research group: Services Computing (University of Stuttgart, Reutlingen University)
• Doctoral degree studies research group: Soft Tissue Robotics (University of Stuttgart, University of Auckland)  

Media studies

• Doctoral degree studies research group:  Digital Media (University of Stuttgart, University of Tübingen, Stuttgart Media University)

Team of the Graduate Academy GRADUS

Pfaffenwaldring 5c, 70569 stuttgart.

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Jürgen Hädrich

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Doctoral studies at HHU

There are several ways to earn a doctorate depending on the faculties, the individual research fields as well as on the type of doctorate. It can be completed within a structured programme or quite independently under the supervision of a professor. Over a period of about three to four years, doctoral students conduct independent research, write a dissertation and usually defend it through an oral examination. The starting date is not bound to the university semesters, but rather depends on the available funding options for the individual research projects.

At HHU, doctoral candidates are individually supervised and supported in order to advance their careers. The following applies to all faculties of HHU:

• the regulations for doctoral studies stipulate that doctoral theses must be overseen by two supervisors; i.e. a second supervisor may be added to the PhD advisory committee
• the course "Good Scientific Practice" is mandatory for all doctoral candidates
• the doctoral research is conducted within a structured doctoral programme or, alternatively, can be completed within the framework of a structured curriculum at the respective faculties' graduate academies
• international junior researchers receive advice and support from the Junior Scientist and International Research Center (JUNO) regarding their stay in Germany and at HHU
• the faculties' graduate academies offer a broad qualification programme for doctoral students and a comprehensive counseling service
• the  Heine Research Academies and the graduate academies of the  Faculty of Medicine (MedRSD) , the  Faculty of Mathematics & Natural Sciences (iGRAD)  and the  Faculty of Arts and Humanities (PhilGRAD) provide a common framework of support and structured education for all doctoral researchers.

In Germany and at HHU, the most common PhD track is completing an individual doctorate under the supervision of a professor and thereby conducting research largely independently on one's own research topic. This offers a great deal of flexibility but also demands a high degree of personal initiative and responsibility. To start such a doctoral project, you first need to find a supervisor at HHU. The supervision of a doctoral thesis is an individual agreement between the doctoral researcher and the supervisor. In some faculties at HHU (e.g. Faculty of Mathematics & Natural Sciences) an additional supervising professor is mandatory. 

Doctoral students conducting an indivual doctorate may be employed by the supervisor's institute, which often requires them to work on a specific project or to participate in the teaching requirements of the institute. Vacancies for this path to a doctorate are often advertised on the research institute's website or can be found at the HeRA job portal . Doctoral researchers who are not employed by the institute are advised to organise funding for their dissertation project , for example by a scholarship.

How long it takes to complete an individual doctorate depends mainly on one's own time schedule. Three to four years are within in the normal range.

Find further information on how to apply for an individual doctorate here .

In structured doctoral programmes, doctoral students and their research topics are integrated into a larger scientific framework in which the students work on a common research focus or methodology. These programmes are often interdisciplinary and/or have a strong international orientation with English as the team language. In general, they offer a subject-specific curriculum as well as opportunities to acquire transferable skills and additional qualifications. Doctoral students are generally supervised by a thesis advisory committee, i.e. in teams of several professors participating in the programme. 

At HHU you have a broad spectrum of structured doctoral programmes in research training groups and graduate schools funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG), the Excellence Initiative, the federal state North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) and HHU itself. Sometimes they include collaborations with other universities, non-university research institutes such as the Helmholtz Association or the International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) as well as other international partners.

Programme specific scholarships or job offers for doctoral candidates usually provide funding for at least three years. Find further information on available scholarships or job offers at the graduate programmes' websites or and the HeRA job portal . Click here  for details on how to apply for a graduate programme.

Steps to a doctorate

Application

Re-Registration of doctoral students for a new semester

Events & dates, 11.04.2024, 17:00 - 18:00 good to know - rights of residence for researchers from non-eu countries (online seminar), 24.04.2024, 17:00 - 19:00 hhu welcome days for researchers - networking event, 25.04.2024, 09:00 - 13:00 welcome days for researchers - online information sessions, 15.05.2024, 12:00 - 13:00 informationen zum wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz.

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Information about the PhDGermany database

You graduated and want to do a doctorate?

German universities and research organisations are always looking for qualified doctoral students from abroad. PhDGermany publishes PhD position offers in Germany that specifically target international applicants.

What are your benefits of using PhDGermany?

• Open PhD positions all over Germany in a single database
• Detailed information clearly arranged
• All necessary information to contact the offering party directly
• Type of Position
• Field of Research
• Working Language
• Alphabetically
• Application Deadline
• Starting Date
• Published (standard)

Go on with the  PhDGermany database .

You need further information about doing a PhD in Germany?

On  Research in Germany > PhD  you will find information about

• Why pursue a doctorate in Germany
• Language and Requirements
• Financing and Funding
• FAQ – Doing a doctorate in Germany (PDF)

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Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Phd studies, enrollment office for phd students.

The enrollment office will be closed from March 29, 2024 to April 2, 2024. We wish you a happy Easter!

• Office location:

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Referat Studierendenservice Unter den Linden 6 10117 Berlin

• Contact person:

Ms. Olga Vorobyeva

• E-mail: [email protected] *

Consultation hour by phone Wednesday 09:00 - 10:00 a.m. Phone: (+49) 30 2093-70330

*If you are already enrolled or registered at HU Berlin, please submit your full name, your enrollment or registration number, your date and place of birth.

If you are not aiming for a degree at HU and only want to complete a few semesters as part of your guest/research stay at HU , you cannot apply for enrollment at the enrollment office. Please contact the International Office with your questions regarding the enrollment process: [email protected]

I. Beginning your doctoral studies: Admission, enrollment and registration

Please find general information for doctoral candidates at the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (HU Berlin) on our Doctoral Candidates Portal .

Please contact the PhD office of the faculty at which you would like to do your doctorate. Notice that there are no fixed deadlines for applying as a doctoral candidate. You get all necessary information on the application procedure directly there. Please find corresponding contact details on the websites of the faculties .

Please submit your application for admission exclusively to the PhD office at the faculty of your choice. Your application must contain all specified documents. Please note, if you have a non German university degree, your documents will be checked for equivalence with the German education system before the application procedure. Any coordination that may be necessary for this process is carried out between the faculty’s PhD office and the department for student services internally. We kindly ask you, do not send any documents to the enrollment office for doctoral studies before you received your admission by the faculty of your choice.

Please submit the enrollment form for PhD studies [ PDF ] and all the required documents as soon as possible, but no later than four weeks after you received the letter of admission from your faculty. If you are employed at HU and prefer to be only registered, please choose the registration-form for a doctorate [ PDF ]. Please send the filled out and signed form with all required documents to the following address

Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Referat Studierendenservice Unter den Linden 6 10099 Berlin

or drop them into the mailbox at the Student Service Center (SSC) in the main building of  Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Unter den Linden 6, 10117 Berlin (Opening hours: Mon - Fri, 8 a.m. - 7 p.m.).

To keep the four-week deadline for enrollment/registration it is sufficient to submit the documents during this period to the enrollment office for PhD students.

Enrollment forms submitted digitally (e.g. as e-mail attachments) cannot be accepted for your enrollment.

You can only enroll for PhD studies after you have received your formal admission in a doctoral-study-program from the PhD office/PhD board of your faculty.

Enrolled doctoral candidates do have a student status and receive a student card (Campus-Card) but cannot receive the semester ticket for public transport. Enrolled PhD students have to pay the semester fees. Enrollment as a doctoral candidate is not contingent upon employment as a staff member at the HU Berlin.

However, if you are employed at HU, you have two options:

Either you enroll or you register for PhD studies. Registration is only possible as long as you are an employee/staff member at the HU Berlin. In case of registration, no fees or contributions have to be paid. But you do not have a status of a student at the HU Berlin and you are excluded from using the discounted semester ticket.

Differences between enrollment and registration for PhD studies

Please enroll for PhD studies within four weeks after receiving the letter of admission from your faculty and submit the following documents:

- the completed and signed enrollment form [ PDF ] incl. details on your educational biography,

- a simple copy of your admission letter from the PhD board,

- the payment confirmation of the semester fee (e.g. a simple copy of the bank transfer). You will find detailed information about the amount of semester fee which has to be paid for your enrollment below under "How much semester fee do I have to pay to be enrolled for PhD studies?".

- a simple copy of the de-registration certificate from your last German university (does not apply if you have never been enrolled at a university in Germany),

- a simple copy of your university entrance qualification (in most cases the secondary school certificate and/or university entrance examination),

- simple copies of your previous university degree certificates (German and/or foreign certificates),

- proof of a scholarship (if applicable).

How much semester fee do I have to pay to be enrolled for PhD studies?

Enrollment for the winter semester 2023/24

Doctoral students have the opportunity to purchase the semester ticket for the months of February and March 2024 when enrolling for the winter semester 2023/24.

Please see this overview for the amount to be transferred for your enrollment:

Enrollment for the summer semester 2024 (01.04.2024 – 30.09.2024)

Starting from the summer semester of 2024, PhD students are not entitled to a semester ticket and are excluded from using the Germany semester ticket.

Please transfer the semester fee of €114.59 for your enrollment in the summer semester 2024.

When enrolling from the beginning of the re-registration period for the winter semester 2024/25 (in the months of June, July, August and September 2024), we ask you to transfer the semester fee for the winter semester 2024/25 as well.

Exemption from the enrollment fee (currently €50)

PhD students who receive a scholarship (e.g. from the DAAD) as part of funding programs that are financed exclusively or predominantly from public funds from the federal or state governments and who submit a proof of this for enrollment can be exempted from the fee for enrollment and re-registration, currently 50 € per semester, in accordance with Section 2 Paragraph 7 of the BerlHG ( § 2 Abs. 7 BerlHG ).

Please find detailed information about the composition of semester fees and contributions here:

https://hu.berlin/rueckmeldung

If you are employed at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and have chosen to register as a PhD student, please submit the following documents within four weeks after receiving the letter of admission from your faculty:

- the completed and signed application registration-form for PhD studies incl. details on your educational biography [ PDF ],

- a proof of employment at HU which contains the begin-date and the end-date of your employment (e.g. a copy of your employment contract),

- simple copies of your previous university degree certificates (either German and/or foreign certificates).

Please note that the enrollment office will not send you a confirmation that your documents have been received . The application deadline is met if your documents for enrollment or registration have reached the enrollment office within one month after your admission for PhD studies.

After we have received your documents, we will check them carefully. If any documents are missing, you will be informed by email or via mail and we will give you a deadline for submitting the missing evidence.

If you submitted all the required documents in full, you will receive a confirmation of completed enrollment/registration by e-mail. In addition, we will provide you with further information (in case of enrollment: e.g. how to create the Campus Card (student ID) or to activate the student HU account).

Please note that the processing of your application for enrollment or registration for PhD studies usually takes at least two weeks after the enrollment office has received all the required documents. Before the start of the semester or shortly after the semester start, there may be longer processing times.

II. During PhD studies: Re-registration, semester fees and semester ticket

Yes, re-registration for the next semester is mandatory. In order to retain your status as a doctoral student and to be able to complete your PhD studies, you must re-register within the re-registration period. Please note the information on the main deadlines for re-registration in your AGNES account and on our website for re-registration .

If you have appropriate reasons, you can apply for a leave of absence as a PhD student by using our application form [ PDF ]. For further information please visit our website .

However, the leave of absence has no influence on the standard processing time of your doctoral studies and your processing time will not be automatically extended for the duration of your leave of absence.

Please complete the extension form ("Bescheinigung über die Verlängerung der Regelbearbeitungszeit der Promotion" [ PDF ]) and have it signed by your PhD supervisor. Then send the signed form to the PhD office of your faculty. Please note that the PhD office may need additional documents from you. Contact the office for more information and procedure details.

If your request has been approved by the faculty’s PhD board, the PhD office will forward the signed form to the enrollment office for doctoral studies.

As a registration for PhD studies is only possible for the duration of your employment at the HU Berlin, you have to enroll as a PhD student after your employment relationship has expired. Please submit the application form for enrollment for PhD studies to the enrollment office. In addition, please submit a proof of payment of the semester fee, a proof of health insurance and an informal letter in which you inform us that you are currently registered for doctoral studies.

The amount of the semester fee depends on two factors:

Whether you want to use the semester ticket and on what date you enroll for PhD studies.

If you want to use the semester ticket and enroll within the first semester month (April or October), the full semester fee including the semester ticket fee must be paid.

If you enroll after the first month of the semester, the semester ticket fee only has to be paid proportionally from the month of enrollment.

If you opt out the semester ticket, the semester fee for the current semester is constant regardless of the month of enrollment.

If you enroll in the last three semester months (July-September or January-March), we ask you to transfer the re-registration fee for the following semester in addition to the semester fee for the matriculation semester.

Please try to re-activate your HU account for students via our Computer and Media Service (CMS) to solve this issue. If this is not possible, please contact the enrollment office for generating a new PIN letter for re-activating your HU account for students.

Please note that a new PIN can only provided via a PIN letter send to you by mail.

III. Finishing your doctoral studies, de-registration

If you do not re-register for the upcoming semester, .e.g. not paying the required semester fee, you will be automatically de-registered (“Exmatrikulation”). If you would like to be de-registered before the end of the semester, please submit the application for de-registration [ PDF ] to the enrollment office for doctoral studies.

Please contact the PhD office of your faculty and clarify whether the enrollment is necessary to defend your thesis and proceed accordingly. If the regular processing time for your doctorate has expired, and you have submitted your thesis and you need to be enrolled in the upcoming semester, ask the PhD office to inform the enrollment office about this. After the enrollment office has received the confirmation from the PhD office and your payment of the semester fee has been received, we will re-register you.

IV. Legal bases

Fächerübergreifende Satzung zur Regelung von Zulassung, Studium und Prüfung der Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (ZSP-HU)

Sections 59 and 60 regulate form, procedure and conditions of enrollment and registration as a doctoral student at the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin.

V. Additional information

Doctoral regulations of the faculties

https://hu.berlin/promord

Humboldt Graduate School

https://www.humboldt-graduate-school.de

International Scholar Services

https://hu.berlin/issprom

Financing the PhD studies

https://hu.berlin/promfinanz

https://www.daad.de

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A doctorate is the highest academic degree that a university can award. In Germany, studying for a doctorate primarily means  working intensely on a specific subject or research project  for a long period of time. It typically takes five to six years to obtain a doctorate, though the length of time can vary.

How to obtain a PhD in Germany

If you decide to do a doctorate, you can choose between different forms of study. Depending on your discipline, research area, personal circumstances and formal qualifications, there are two different paths:

• Individual doctorate The individual doctorate is based on independent research carried out alone under the supervision of one professor. This is the traditional path followed by over three quarters of all doctoral students in Germany.
• Structured PhD programmes These programmes offer a form of study similar to that found in English-speaking countries. You will be supervised by a team and will attend courses, lectures and seminars together with other doctoral students. Normally, such programmes are publicly advertised and often feature grants or paid doctoral positions.

Individual doctorate

DAAD/Jan Zappner

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 also demands a  high degree of personal initiative and responsibility . A professor supervises a PhD student, who works on his or her subject in consultation with the professor, but  largely independently .

How long a traditional individual doctorate takes depends on your own time schedule – or on the duration of your work contract. On average, you can expect it to take five to six years . Although a university is normally responsible for the doctoral process, you can also carry out your research at other institutions.

Depending on your subject, research area and interests, you can choose whether to work on a research project and your PhD at a university or non-university research institute – or indeed in industry. However, no matter where you conduct your research, a professor will always supervise your PhD.

You can obtain a doctorate by pursuing research:

• at a university
• at a non-university research institute or
• in a German company

PhD at a university

The "typical" PhD student in Germany works – usually part-time – as a  research associate  at his or her university. Although research is generally part of the job description, most of the associate’s own doctoral research usually has to be carried out outside working hours. How closely teaching, research and/or administrative duties are actually tied into the doctoral student’s own research depends very much on the individual situation.

PhD at a non-university research institute

Non-university research establishments – such as the  Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft ,  Helmholtz Association ,  Leibniz Association  and  Max Planck Society  – offer an excellent research environment in which to conduct your research. These institutions do not have the right to award doctorates themselves, but collaborate with universities for that purpose. They offer PhD students  scholarships and/or (usually fixed-term) contracts of employment  – or a combination of the two. However, support is also possible in the form of regular research posts, which are especially typical of Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and the Max Planck Society.

PhD in industry

Graduates who decide to work in industry and study for a doctorate part-time – often with funding and support from their employer – also need a university professor to supervise their research. In some cases, the employer will already be collaborating with a university or research institute and can help the PhD student find the right supervisor.

People who have PhD research posts within a company usually have part-time temporary contracts and work on a research project that allows them to pursue their doctoral research under the supervision of a professor. When a university and an industrial company collaborate in specially established institutes, doctoral researchers usually work on their projects with their professor and a supervisor from the company.

More information:

Find your individual doctorate 

The traditional individual path to a doctorate remains the most common in Germany. In this case, the doctoral student works for the most part independently on their thesis, though in consultation with their supervising professor.

Structured PhD programmes

DAAD/Volker Lannert

Structured doctoral programmes often have a  strong international orientation  with English as the team language. Unlike the individual doctorate model that can be freely structured to suit the individual research project, here doctoral students and their research proposals have to fit in with an existing PhD programme.

The doctorate frequently entails a  clearly structured doctoral study   programme  with compulsory attendance at lectures or seminars and interim assessment (credit points). The programme frequently also covers  academic and scientific methods or soft skills , such as presentation techniques.

As a rule, PhD Students work steadily at realising their research project within the team and with intensive  support from a group of academic staff  (often referred to as the “thesis committee”).

The duration of your studies is generally   limited to three to five years, and there is usually a fixed curriculum within which you work toward your doctorate and write your thesis.

Find your structured PhD programme

Though no database containing all structured PhD programmes in Germany is available yet, we can point you in the direction of databases that will help you find what you are looking for nonetheless, where to obtain information about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

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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PhD in Germany [Complete Guide]

Few achievements in life match the feeling of being awarded a PhD. Doctorates represent the pinnacle of academic achievement, and require years of diligent study.

The rewards, however, are great. Not only does a Ph.D. give you bragging rights at cocktail parties, but it also provides excellent job prospects and earning potential. But what if you want to study for a PhD outside of your home country?

Germany is an increasingly popular destination for international students, offering high-quality education and research facilities at a fraction of the cost of studying in the US or UK. Germany offers and takes research extremely seriously, and is one of the world's most popular places to study for a PhD or higher education.

But what kinds of PhDs are available, how much do they cost, and how do students apply? Let's find out.

General information

Germany is widely seen as one of the best places to apply for a PhD worldwide

The country offers excellent education and research facilities as well as competitive funding opportunities for doctoral students.

There are different types of Ph.D. programs in Germany. That's no surprise, as   Germany invented the elite academic qualification in the 19th century . German PhDs cover subjects as diverse as history, linguistics, and philosophy, or chemistry, molecular biology, earth sciences, and computer science. Most lower level degree subjects can be extended to PhD level if the student desires.

How can I get a PhD in Germany?

There are   two main ways   to complete a PhD in Germany. Most commonly,   students form a working relationship with a specific   Doktorvater   or   Doktormutter   (or "supervisor" in English). They then work on a tightly focused research task for the duration of their studies.   The fruits of their university research are then presented as a "Doctorate" ( Doktorarbeit ), which tends to resemble a medium-length book.

In some cases,   "Structured" PHDs are available . These resemble taught Masters degrees, but still have a strong research element. They may also focus on work placements.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Germany?

Generally speaking,   a standard research-oriented German doctorate can be obtained within 4-6 years . This depends on the speed of work and personal factors such as having children.   Structured doctorates can often be completed in just 3 years , but this varies from course to course.

International PhD Programs

Germany welcomes international students to study at PhD level

Many programs offer specialist assistance and course structures for overseas students.

DAAD   (the German Academic Exchange Service) brings together   grants for international students at leading German universities . It's the best place to start   hunting for scholarships to help fund your studies .

Is a PhD in Germany free?

PhDs at German universities are usually available free of charge for international students , but   living costs   aren't covered. However, scholarships can cover (most) living costs.   DAAD grants will average around €1,200 per month , and additional funding sources may be available.

A group of prominent universities has also created a funding scheme   called   StipendumPlus , which also distributes grants. Between them, finding financial help should be possible.

Do PhD students get paid in Germany?

It's not routine for international students to be paid for their work , but it is definitely possible to find paid research posts. Enquire with your supervisor, and you may find that paid jobs are available to supplement your income.

How to find your PhD Position

Finding the right PhD is essential

It's   a huge investment of both finances and time , and could change the course of your life. So here are some useful tips to remember.

Take time to find a   supervisor   you want to work with.   Balance their academic record with the resources of the university, and have a chat with them   if possible. You need to be able to work with them on a daily basis.

• Searching for doctorate programs has been made much easier by databases like   DAAD . Use them to assess every option.
• Consult   university rankings   to avoid poor-quality teaching.
• Check for services like career advice and travel grants. As a PhD researcher, you may need to travel worldwide, and this can be expensive.
• Ask about work opportunities as well. Research posts at your university are the best way to add some extra income, while gaining relevant experience.

Requirements and Application

Before you can commence doctorate studies in Germany, you'll need to complete an application process

If you want to study a traditional PhD,   applications must be carried out via your prospective supervisor .

When   you contact   the supervisor   and they   agree to work with you, they will forward your request to the relevant faculty . The department will then request:

• A statement from your supervisor
• Proof of your academic qualification 
• 1-2 academic references
• Proof of   language proficiency
• A valid   student visa   and   health insurance

Structured PhDs don't require students to go through a supervisor.   In those cases, applications are made via the faculty, and will usually be carried out via online portals.

To study a PhD, requirements generally demand a Masters degree   (8 semesters of university education), as well as English and German proficiency to a high level.

IELTS English certificates , and   TestDaf German courses   are advisable for all doctoral candidates, even if they have studied those languages in the past.

PhDs are a huge investment of both finances and time, so it's important to do your research before choosing a supervisor and program. Make sure to consult university rankings and databases like DAAD when making your decision. Once you've been accepted into a program, make sure to apply for scholarships and grants to help cover your living costs.

Finally, remember to ask about work opportunities as well – research posts are a great way to gain relevant experience and supplement your income.

Find Your Perfect Match 

Search by city, major, or field of study and find your dream study program in Germany.

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PhD in Germany: Universities, Fees, Application & More!

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From an aspirant to a scholar

Germany has become the most sought-after destination to pursue a PhD given the affordability, style of living and, of course, a plethora of job opportunities. To help you make an informed decision, we have curated a complete guide on PhD in Germany for international students that talks about top universities, costs, courses, student life and many more aspects! 

Why Study PhD in Germany?

Germany is popularly known for boasting a rich academic tradition and hosts several reputed universities. With renowned research institutions, efficient and top-notch education systems, along with a vibrant academic community, it offers a conducive environment for studying PhD in Germany. Here are some of the major reasons why students should consider pursuing PhD programs in Germany for international students.

1. Quality of Education

Germany has emerged as a well-reputed university that is popular globally. German universities have a long tradition of contributing to excellent research and Nobel laureates to the rest of the world. The German universities award around 5,800 doctoral degrees every year to international scholars.

2. Academic Eligibility

To get admission for PhD in Germany, it is not mandatory to have a master’s degree. Students who possess a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field can also apply for PhD programs in Germany. However, the students must have an excellent academic record.

3. Fully Funded PhD Programs

The PhD programs in Germany are fully funded by the German government. This, in turn, makes studying for a PhD in Germany free of cost.

4. Structured Programs

The PhD programs in Germany are well-structured and focused and offer a combination of coursework, research and practical experience. The PhD courses in Germany are usually 3-6 years long, depending on the specialisation.

5. Affordability

To bear the cost of living, study materials, etc, there are plenty of funding options available to support the study PhD in Germany. The most popular among them is the DAAD scholarship, which offers scholarships to 4000+ students every year.

Types of PhD in Germany

PhD in Germany is classified into two types of doctorates. After taking into consideration many aspects like qualifications, area of research, discipline, etc, students can choose which path of PhD they would like to pursue.

1. Individual Doctorate

The Individual Doctorate is the traditional path that is followed by more than three-quarters of all doctoral students in Germany. In an Individual doctorate, the research is carried out independently by the student alone under the supervision of one professor. The traditional form of PhD in Germany offers great flexibility but also demands a high percentage of initiative and responsibility. The Individual doctorate can be approximately 5-6 years long. However, the duration also depends on the student’s schedule or the work contract duration.

2. Structured PhD Programs

Distinctive to the Individual Doctorate, the researcher is supervised by a team and not just one professor. The student is also required to attend courses, lectures and seminars along with other doctoral students. Usually these structured PhD programmes are advertised publicly and also feature grants or paid doctoral programs.

Students can conduct their research at:

1. University 2. Non-University Research Institute 3. Industry

Don't let accommodation concerns distract you from pursuing your PhD dreams in Germany!

Book today with amber

Top PhD Courses in Germany

One can choose from an array of courses and specialisations to study PhD in Germany. We have listed some of the popular ones below.

1. Agricultural Science 2. Business Administration 3. Economics 4. Law 5. Social Sciences 6. Biology 7. Philosophy

Top Universities for PhD in Germany

It is very important to finalise the university you want to pursue a PhD from. Factors like the fees, faculties, curriculums and the quality of education play a crucial role in such cases. To guide you in picking the ideal university, here is a list of universities along with the fees.

Top Non-University Research Institutes for PhD in Germany

Students can obtain a PhD in Germany by conducting their research at a non-university research institute. These institutes do not have the right to award a PhD, but they collaborate with universities for the same. The non-university research institutes offer scholarships and may also offer employment contracts, which are usually fixed-term. Here are some of the top Top Non-University Research Institutes for PhD in Germany.

1. Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft 2. Helmholtz Association 3. Leibniz Association  4. Max Planck Society  

Admission Requirements and Eligibility Criteria

The admission requirements usually vary depending on the university and specialisation. However, some requirements like the German student visa , transcripts etc need to be fulfilled for admission to a majority of universities. 

1. German Proficiency Proof: TestDaf Level 4 2. English Proficiency Proof: IELTS 7.0 (6.5 in each band), TOEFL-iBT score between 80-100 3. GPA of 2.5 or an overall grade of B+ 4. German Student Visa 5. Overall GRE score of 160 or more  6. A degree(Diploma, Magister or Master’s) from a recognised university with an above-average aggregate score.

Application Process

For Structured PhD: The student must apply directly to the faculty and the process will be carried out through online portals.

For Traditional PhD: The applicant has to reach out to the prospective supervisor. When the supervisor agrees to work with you, they will proceed with your request to the relevant faculty. After this, the department will request a few documents that we have mentioned below.

Documents Required

The students are required to submit a few documents while registration. Make sure to keep all of the documents mentioned ready while applying for a PhD in Germany.

1. Certified copies of official transcripts 2. A letter of motivation and 2 letters of recommendation 3. English/German proficiency certificates 4. An updated resume 5. Copy of the applicant’s identification document

PhD Scholarships in Germany 

Even if the PhD programs in Germany are fully funded, there are still a few costs that the students are required to pay. This is why it is advisable to look for scholarships in Germany which provide financial assistance! Here are some of the top scholarships for PhD in Germany for international students, along with the award amount.

1. TUM GS Bridge Financing Grant: €1,000/month + €150 for child and family support. 2. Heinrich Boll Scholarship: €934 3. Central Sector Scheme of National Overseas Scholarship: €30,000 4. University of Goettingen Funding: €1,100 - €1,400 or employment contract 5. DAAD Scholarships: €1,200/month 6. Deutschland Stipendium National Scholarship Programme: €300 7. Universität Hamburg Merit Scholarships: €1,000/month  8. Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarships: €1,200/month 

To increase your chances of winning the scholarship, take a look at the ultimate guide to writing a cover letter ! 

Cost of Living

Germany offers an affordable cost of living compared to other countries. Living alone comes with its share of challenges, and managing finances is one of the most challenging factors. In such cases, planning a monthly budget of €1,200 - €1,700/month will be of great help. Here are some of the estimates to help you plan the month.

1. Rent: €625 - €1,700/month 2. Public Transport: €60 - €80/month 3. Groceries: €150 - €170/month 4. Gas & Electricity: €200 - €250/month 5. Phone & Internet: €30 - €35/month 6. Entertainment: €10 - €15/month

Career Prospects & Average Salary for PhD Graduates

After completing the PhD in Germany, the students are exposed to the job market. The salaries the students might earn are dependent on several aspects like job position, the applicant’s skills, experience and industry. Here is a brief list of some job profiles that are offered to PhD graduates in Germany, along with their average annual salaries. Some of these are the highest-paying jobs in Germany for international students !

Pursuing a PhD in Germany for international students opens doors to golden opportunities that allow students to upskill and bag an average salary that ranges from €60,000 - €75,000 per year. The PhD programs in Germany offer expertise in writing thesis and research papers and also train students to conduct deep-rooted research. The German culture , affordability, exposure to the job market and the high quality of education compel students to pursue a doctorate in Germany. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which job profiles can i apply for after pursuing a phd in germany, where can i conduct research to pursue a phd in germany, which are the most popular phd courses in germany for international students, are there any phd scholarships in germany, what is the duration for a phd in germany.

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Best Global Research Positions in Agriculture and Biosciences

PhD Fully Funded Position in Plant Ecological Genetics at Heinrich Heine University Duesseldorf in Germany

By Agristok

PhD Fully Funded Position in Plant Ecological Genetics at Heinrich Heine University (HHU) Duesseldorf in Germany; The Institute for Plant Ecology and Evolution at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences of Heinrich Heine University (HHU) Duesseldorf, Germany, invites applications for a PhD (w/m/d) (50 %, EG 13 TV-L, for 3 years): Rapid Evolution to Changing Environments in Brassicaceae: Bridging Ecology and Genetics, To be filled as soon as possible

Our research focuses on the responses of plant populations to climate change and attempts at disentangling the relative contributions of adaptation, phenotypic plasticity, and range shifts. We also aim to identify the drivers of rapid contemporary evolution and to uncover the genetic basis of climate change adaptation. To examine these themes, we combine traditional field- and greenhouse-based studies, as well as the resurrection approach, with quantitative genetics and ecological genomics. Our lab is integrated in the research TRR 341 on Plant Ecological Genetics .

We are looking for a motivated PhD candidate to study the ecological and genetic adaptation to changing environments in the annual Brassica rapa and closely related Brassicaceae species. The candidate is also encouraged to develop related projects within the lab’s research framework. The position has a teaching requirement of 2 SWS (contact hours per week).

What are your tasks:

• Use the resurrection approach to study rapid evolution in Californian Brassica rapa populations in response to drought and examine potential costs of adaptation under water and nutrient limitations (i.e., common garden experiment)
• Conduct fieldwork for in situ sampling and scoring of local Brassicaceae species and populations and subsequent common garden experiments to identify intraspecific trait and genetic variation underlying ecological diversification and local adaptation
• Apply statistical and computational tools for the analysis of trait, environmental, and next-generation sequencing data
• Present research results at conferences and publish in peer-reviewed scientific journals
• Supervise and mentor students in the lab

What do we expect:

• MSc in the field of plant biology, ecology, botany, evolutionary or population genetics, quantitative biology or related
• Strong interest in plant ecological genetics, quantitative and evolutionary biology, contemporary evolution, and field ecology
• Experience conducting large multi-factorial plant experiments (i.e., common gardens, reciprocal transplants, etc.) is preferred
• Experience in the use of statistical data analysis and programming languages (e.g., R, Java, Python) is preferred
• Experience with population genetics, NGS data, SNP calling, genome annotation, standard molecular techniques is preferred
• The languages spoken in the group are English and German – demonstrated ability to communicate effectively in English is essential (written and spoken) and German is preferred
• Lawful ability to work in the EU (i.e., Schengen residence/work permit)

We offer you:

• A unique, dynamic, and interdisciplinary research network in the field of Plant Ecological Genetics (TRR 341), funded by the DFG, that bundles the expertise of excellent scientists from seven different research institutions
• A comprehensive training program with targeted scientific education in the field of Plant Ecological Genetics as well as complementary training supporting your personal and career development (GEcoGen, iGRAD, JUNO, HeRA)
• Family-friendly and multicultural working environment

To apply:   Qualified candidates should send their application (Cover letter including statement of interest – max. 2 pages, CV including publication list, contact info of two references, BSc and MSc certificates) by e-mail (one single pdf-file) until 30.04.2024 to [email protected] .  If you have further questions on the project or position, please contact Prof. Elena Hamann – [email protected]

See More Opportunities Like this here .

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Related post, 3 years postdoctoral associate in plant ecological genetics at heinrich heine university duesseldorf in germany, 3 three phd funded positions in plant and soil sciences at forschungszentrum jülich research center in germany, phd funded position in plant disease epidemiology at bioger inrae, agroparistech / université paris-saclay in france, leave a reply cancel reply, discover more from agristok.

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UGC approves use of National Eligibility Test (NET) scores for PhD admissions from 2024-25 session

The announcement came following the 578th ugc meeting held on march 13, where an expert committee's recommendations were considered. the net is conducted twice a year, in june and december, to award junior research fellowships (jrf) and select assistant professors for those holding master's degrees.

In a move aimed at streamlining the admission process for doctoral programs, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced that scores from the National Eligibility Test (NET) will be valid for PhD admissions starting from the 2024-25 academic session. This decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and addresses the challenges faced by candidates who currently have to write multiple entrance exams conducted by various universities for PhD admissions. PhD admission will be done based on UGC NET, and no separate exams will be required as per Mamidala Jagadesh Kumar, the UGC chairman.

The announcement came following the 578th UGC meeting held on March 13, where an expert committee's recommendations were considered. The NET is conducted twice a year, in June and December, to award Junior Research Fellowships ( JRF ) and select Assistant Professors for those holding master's degrees.

Jagadesh Kumar stated that the National Testing Agency (NTA) is planning to launch the application process for the June 2024 NET session next week. "From the academic session 2024-2025, all universities can use NET scores for admission to PhD programs in place of entrance tests conducted by different universities/HEIs," Kumar posted on X.

Under the new rules, candidates who qualify for the UGC NET will be eligible for three categories:

• PhD admission with JRF and assistant professor posts
• PhD admission without JRF and for assistant professor posts
• Admission to PhD programs only

However, it's important to note that for creating a merit list for PhD admissions, 70 per cent weightage will be given to the UGC NET scores, while the remaining 30 per cent will be based on interviews.

The UGC NET June 2024 notification is expected to be released soon on the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. It's worth noting that NET scores remain valid for one year.

This move by the UGC aims to provide a unified and streamlined process for PhD admissions across universities, reducing the burden on candidates who previously had to prepare for multiple entrance exams. By recognizing the national-level NET scores, the commission hopes to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of doctoral programs in the country.

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