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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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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 

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The way to a doctorate

You would like to get a PhD in Germany? Here you will find attractive programmes for international doctoral students.

Working in a team, following a clear programme and intensive mentoring by several scholars or scientists: if that sounds like a good idea, a structured PhD programme is the right choice for you. Two more pluses: such programmes usually offer an international environment and the language of teaching and working is often English.

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Research training group

In a research training group you are part of a team of doctoral students, post-docs, and scholars or scientists. You carry out research together on a subject, often interdisciplinary and focused on the specialty of the scholar or scientist who is supervising your doctorate.

International research training groups specifically promote scholarly and scientific exchange. During your doctorate work, you conduct research abroad for six months.

Some collaborative research centres of universities operate integrated research training groups . There you can do your PhD in a research-intensive environment in a structured PhD programme.

A survey of research training groups can be found on the DFG website. Applications must be sent to the head of the respective group.

Quick facts

Research schools.

In non-university research institutions, it is almost the rule to participate in structured, largely interdisciplinary doctoral programmes. The Max Planck Society , Helmholtz Association and Leibniz Association have set up research and graduate schools for their doctoral students, which are also open to international doctoral candidates.

Max Planck Schools

The new Max Planck Schools are something special. They are a joint project of universities and the major research organizations of the Max Planck Society, Helmholtz Association, Leibniz Association and Fraunhofer Society. In these international graduate schools, excellent graduates from all over the world work together in a structured doctoral programme with the best scholars and scientists in their fields.

Doctoral programmes and courses of study

Many universities also run special international doctoral programmes that either target specific research topics or support doctoral students with interdisciplinary offerings. These programmes can be found in the DAAD database (in English).

More information and tips can be found at Research in Germany

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bioinformatics, biology or similar with experience in the relevant field Knowledge in programming languages (e.g. Java, Rust, C/C++) and statistical analysis using R/BioConductor/python Experience with

Exciting PhD positions at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL)

30 Jan 2024 Job Information Organisation/Company European Molecular Biology Laboratory Research Field Biological sciences Chemistry Computer science Engineering Mathematics Physics Researcher

PhD Position in Biology (f/m/d)

from the earliest possible date, the following 65% position limited to 3 years. PhD Position in Biology (f/m/d) “Application of a high-throughput array tomography vEM pipeline to study the diversity

PhD positions in the field of NMR supported structural biology

into the Bavarian NMR Center (www.bnmrz.org) at the Technical University Munich, and is associated with the Institute of Structural Biology (www.helmholtz-munich.de/en/stb) at the Helmholtz-Zentrum München (HMGU

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• CORRESPONDENCE
• 02 April 2024

How can we make PhD training fit for the modern world? Broaden its philosophical foundations

• Ganesh Alagarasan 0

Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Tirupati, India.

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

You have highlighted how PhD training assessment has stagnated, despite evolving educational methodologies (see Nature 613 , 414 (2023) and Nature 627 , 244; 2024 ). In particular, you note the mismatch between the current PhD journey and the multifaceted demands of modern research and societal challenges.

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Nature 628 , 36 (2024)

doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-024-00969-x

Competing Interests

The author declares no competing interests.

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Ways To Your PhD

 You have the choice of two routes to your doctoral title in Germany. Check out the differences.

Individual Doctoral Studies

Most doctoral candidates choose the individual study model. In this model, you need to find a university professor who will supervise your dissertation. You may elect to write your dissertation alone or collaborate with other researchers – it really depends on your subject.

As a doctoral candidate you have three options as to where you carry out your research:  at a university, at a research organisation or in the industrial sector.  You can decide which option best fits your goals.

How long it takes to complete an individual PhD is down to your schedule, or the period of your research grant, but the length of this form of PhD usually ranges from 3 to 5 years.

Structured PhD Programmes

An alternative route to your doctorate is via the structured PhD programme, similar to those in English-speaking countries. This model offers regular and intense supervision by a team of advisors.  The programmes include a curriculum of courses, usually with an interdisciplinary focus. These programmes will advance your skills not only in academic and scientific methods such as presentation techniques but also foster soft skills. This systematic approach allows you to complete your doctoral studies within 3 – 4 years.  

Find out more about the two ways to do your PhD: www.research-in-germany.org > two ways to get a PhD

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Structured PhD programmes

DAAD/Volker Lannert

Structured doctoral programmes differ from traditional doctoral research. In Germany, structured doctoral programmes are  very similar to the PhD programmes in English-speaking countries , in which a team of supervisors look after a group of doctoral students.

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.

PhD Studentship 2024 in UK by ENTRE at University of Birmingham

ENTRE-UB offers 4-year PhD studentships starting in 2024-2025, collaborating with various partner organizations focusing on human behavior. Each student will be co-supervised by academic staff from the University of Birmingham and professionals from the partnering organizations.

Financial Support Students will receive a stipend of £19,237 per year and full tuition coverage.

Training The program includes comprehensive training in research methodologies, professional skills, and opportunities for public engagement.

Available Projects Projects cover a range of topics including data analytics, health service interventions, and environmental behavior change. Each project is tailored to foster practical outcomes and real-world impact.

Eligibility and Application Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree or equivalent. The program is open to both home and international applicants. Required application materials include a completed CENTRE-UB form, CV, academic transcripts, and two references.

Diversity Initiatives In collaboration with The Talent Foundry, CENTRE-UB supports increased diversity in its research community. Additional support is available for applicants from underserved backgrounds.

How to Apply?

• Select a project.
• Download and complete the application form.
• Email the form, along with your CV, transcripts, and references to [email protected] .

Application Deadline All materials must be submitted by 16 May 2024 and early discussions with potential supervisors are recommended.

Zahira Bano

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