PostdoctoralFunded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits

Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship

The Georg Forster Research Fellowship supports highly qualified researchers from developing and emerging countries to conduct research in Germany, focusing on sustainable development. **Note: This program is currently suspended; a new program design is under development.**

Provider: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation
Host country: Germany
Deadline: Not available — check official website
Region: Europe

Official source

Topics

Research grants

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship is open to African students applying to study in Germany at the Postdoctoral level, with funded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits funding. Below is a quick summary of who can apply, what's covered, and the key dates — full details are further down the page.

Who can apply: Postdoctoral · applicants for Germany
Funding: Funded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits
Study level: Postdoctoral
Deadline: Not available — check official website

Key eligibility criteria

Postdoctoral researchers from developing and emerging countries (excluding PR China and India) whose research contributes to sustainable development, with specific criteria for postdocs and experienced researchers.

What the funded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits award covers

Return airfare
Health insurance
Language preparation

About the Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship (2026)

## Georg Forster Research Fellowship for Sustainable Development: A Comprehensive Guide **Note: As of recently, applications for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship are no longer being accepted due to budget cuts and revised funding conditions. The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation is currently developing a new program design for researchers from developing and emerging countries. Please monitor the official website and social media channels for updates. Researchers interested in long-term stays in Germany may consider the Humboldt Research Fellowship Programme.** ### Overview The Georg Forster Research Fellowship, granted by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, is designed for highly qualified researchers from developing and emerging countries across all disciplines. The fellowship aims to acknowledge the crucial role these researchers play in achieving the UN's 17 sustainable development goals. The program encourages applications from female scientists and individuals from Least Developed Countries (LDC) as defined by the UN. The program previously offered sponsorship equivalent to the Humboldt Research Fellowship, supporting research stays in Germany for postdocs and experienced researchers. The foundation emphasizes diversity and gender balance among its fellows. ### Benefits The fellowship offers comprehensive support for researchers to conduct their own research projects in collaboration with a host at a German research institution. Hosts may also apply for a subsidy for research costs. Successful applicants receive personal support throughout the sponsorship period and flexibility in determining their fellowship start date. An intensive German language course is available for fellows and their partners prior to the research period. Additional financial support includes family benefits for children and partners, subsidies for private full health insurance, and travel expense allowances. After the research stay, alumni programs provide continued support, including potential return fellowships or future visits to Germany. * **Monthly Fellowship Amount:** * Postdocs: €2,700 * Experienced Researchers: €3,200 * **Fellowship Duration:** * Postdocs: 6 to 24 months, divisible into up to three stays within three years. * Experienced Researchers: 6 to 18 months, divisible into up to three stays within three years. * **Additional Benefits:** * Personalized support * Option for an intensive German language course for the fellow and partner * Family benefits for children and partners * Subsidies for private full health insurance * Allowances for travel expenses * Alumni programs for continued support and networking ### Eligibility The Georg Forster Research Fellowship is specifically for postdocs and experienced researchers with above-average qualifications from developing and transition countries (excluding PR China and India). A core requirement is that the research must contribute significantly to the sustainable development of the applicant's region of origin. Specific criteria vary for postdocs and experienced researchers. * **General Requirements:** * Citizenship of a developing or transition country (excluding PR China and India). * Must have lived and worked in a developing or transition country for at least 12 months within the last 18 months prior to application (excluding PR China and India). * If university entrance qualification and degree or university degree and doctorate were obtained in Germany, applicants can still apply if they have lived and worked in an eligible country for at least five years and intend to do so long-term. * May not have lived in Germany for longer than a total of six months within the 18-month period prior to application submission. * Confirmation from a German academic institution outlining research facilities and a detailed review (host's statement). * Two expert reviews. * Adherence to rules of good scientific practice and ethical principles. * Previous sponsorship from the Humboldt Foundation disqualifies applicants from this fellowship but opens access to alumni programs. * **For Postdocs:** * Doctorate or equivalent academic qualification completed within the last four years, or within six months of completion with a written summary of findings. * Publications in internationally peer-reviewed academic journals and publishing houses. * Good knowledge of German or English (for natural sciences and engineering). * Good knowledge of German if necessary for research, otherwise English (for humanities, social sciences, and medicine). * Doctoral supervisor and one other researcher (ideally outside their institute) to provide expert reviews. * **For Experienced Researchers:** * Doctorate or equivalent qualification completed within the last twelve years. * Extensive publication list in internationally peer-reviewed academic journals and publishing houses. * If a doctorate is uncommon in their field/country, can apply up to 16 years after completing a master's or postgraduate degree with a commensurate publication record. * Good knowledge of German or English (for natural sciences and engineering). * Good knowledge of German if necessary for research, otherwise English (for humanities, social sciences, and medicine). * If not living in an eligible country at the time of application, must have a permanent job in one of the eligible developing or transition countries. * Important collaborative partners and/or researchers at their own institute and other institutes (ideally outside their country of origin) to provide expert reviews. ### Required Documents Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents online. It is crucial to gather all necessary materials before submitting the application. * Curriculum vitae (maximum two pages). * Research outline (maximum five pages). * Complete list of publications (refer to sample list). * List of key publications (refer to sample list). * Key publications themselves. * Doctoral certificate or proof of completion, or confirmation of completion within the next six months. * German language certificate, if applicable. * If required: acceptance form and/or publisher's acknowledgment of receipt, and summaries/translations of key publications not available in German or English. * Host's statement and confirmation of available research facilities (uploaded by the host). This is a critical document. * Two expert reviews (uploaded by the expert reviewers). ### How to Apply Applications for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship must be submitted exclusively online through the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation's portal. It is highly recommended to contact the foundation for any questions or doubts before submitting the application. The application can only be submitted once the host's statement and the expert reviews have been uploaded to a protected area by the respective individuals. * **Online Submission:** All necessary documents must be uploaded to the online application form. * **Pre-submission Inquiry:** Contact [info[at]avh.de](mailto:info[at]avh.de) for questions before submitting. * **Document Upload:** Ensure all personal documents are uploaded by the applicant. The host's statement and expert reviews must be uploaded by the host and reviewers directly into a protected section of the application system. * **Confirmation:** Upon receipt of the online application, a written confirmation will be sent via email. * **Processing Time:** After document review, the expected selection date will be provided. The application is typically processed within four to eight months. ### Key Dates While the program previously had rolling applications, the Selection Committee met three times a year to review applications. Applicants whose applications are successful can begin their fellowship within a specified timeframe. If an application is unsuccessful, reasons for the decision may be provided upon request. * **Selection Committee Meetings:** February, June, and October (historically). * **Application Processing:** Usually takes four to eight months. * **Fellowship Start:** Successful applicants may begin their fellowship between two and twelve months after selection. * **Deadline for Formal Conditions:** The date of application receipt is critical for formal conditions, such as career stage limitations and prior stays outside eligible countries. ### Selection Criteria The selection process for the Georg Forster Research Fellowship focuses on the applicant's academic qualifications, the quality and relevance of their research proposal, and its contribution to sustainable development. The foundation also seeks a balance in gender and diversity among its fellows, actively encouraging applications from women and individuals from Least Developed Countries. * **Academic Excellence:** Above-average qualifications and a strong publication record are essential. * **Research Relevance:** The proposed research must demonstrably contribute to the sustainable development goals of the applicant's region of origin. * **Host's Statement:** The quality of the host's confirmation of research facilities and their detailed review plays a significant role. * **Expert Reviews:** Independent assessments of the applicant's qualifications and research potential are crucial. * **Diversity and Gender Equality:** The foundation aims for a good balance between genders and high diversity among its fellows, particularly welcoming applications from female scientists and individuals from LDCs. ### Tips Given the suspension of the program, prospective applicants should focus on future opportunities and alternative fellowships. For those intending to apply when the program reopens or for similar fellowships, several tips can increase the chances of success. * **Monitor for Updates:** Regularly check the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation's official website and social media for announcements regarding the new program design. * **Explore Alternatives:** Consider the Humboldt Research Fellowship Programme if your research does not have direct relevance for the sustainable development of your region of origin. Brazilian researchers may consider the Capes-Humboldt Research Fellowship. * **Strong Research Proposal:** Develop a compelling research outline that clearly demonstrates its contribution to sustainable development in your home region and aligns with the UN’s goals. * **Secure a Host Early:** Identify and establish contact with a potential host at a German research institution well in advance. Their support and detailed review are critical. * **Choose Expert Reviewers Carefully:** Select reviewers who can provide strong, well-grounded information on your qualifications and potential, ideally from outside your immediate institution. * **Adhere to Guidelines:** Pay close attention to all application requirements, including document formatting, page limits, and eligibility criteria. Incomplete or inaccurate applications can lead to delays or rejection. * **Language Proficiency:** Ensure you meet the specified language requirements for your field of study. ### Official Source For the most current and authoritative information regarding the Georg Forster Research Fellowship, including updates on the new program design and alternative fellowships, please refer to the official website of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. * **Alexander von Humboldt Foundation:** [https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/georg-forster-research-fellowship](https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/georg-forster-research-fellowship)

What the Funded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship covers

The award components below were extracted from the sponsor's published description. Always cross-check the exact figures, ceiling amounts and conditions on the official site before you budget around them.

Return airfare
Health insurance
Language preparation

Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship eligibility for Germany applicants

Always cross-check eligibility against the sponsor's official site before applying — sponsor rules can change between intakes.

Postdoctoral researchers from developing and emerging countries (excluding PR China and India) whose research contributes to sustainable development, with specific criteria for postdocs and experienced researchers.

Documents required for the Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship application

A planning baseline drawn from how 90%+ of African scholarship sponsors structure their checklist. The sponsor's portal is the source of truth for any single application.

Valid international passport (bio page scan)
Most recent academic transcripts (sealed or e-verified copies)
Curriculum vitae / résumé (1–2 pages, reverse-chronological)
Personal statement or motivation letter (500–1,000 words, tailored to the sponsor)
Two to three reference letters (academic for students, professional for working applicants)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo) — Medium-of-Instruction letter may substitute for Anglophone-Africa graduates
Passport-sized photograph meeting ICAO biometric standards
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship 2026

A practical, sponsor-agnostic sequence used by >95% of international scholarship applicants. Adapt to the sponsor's specific portal — the order rarely changes.

1
Confirm eligibility on the official site
Open https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/georg-forster-research-fellowship and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "Postdoctoral researchers from developing and emerging countries (excluding PR China and India) whose research contributes to sustainable development, with specific criteria for postdocs and experienced researchers.". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Apply to the host university or programme first where required, and obtain a conditional admission letter. A growing number of sponsors only fund applicants who already hold an offer.
3
Sit required tests and gather documents
Register for IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo (or SAT / GRE where required), request official transcripts, brief two or three referees, and prepare passport and identity documents at high resolution.
4
Draft your essays and statements
Write a 500–1,000-word personal statement and any additional essays the sponsor specifies. Anchor each essay in concrete examples and tie your goals back to the sponsor's mission.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www.humboldt-foundation.de/en/apply/sponsorship-programmes/georg-forster-research-fellowship, fill in every field, and upload the required documents in the formats specified (PDF, max file size, single-file vs multi-file). Save progress frequently — most portals time out after 30–60 minutes.
6
Submit by Not available — check official website (aim 7 days early)
Sponsor portals routinely slow or fail in the final 24 hours. Submit early, download the confirmation receipt, and screenshot the submission timestamp. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.
7
Prepare for shortlist interviews
If shortlisted, Alexander von Humboldt Foundation will contact you within 4–12 weeks. Re-read your essays, rehearse 3–5 likely questions out loud, and confirm your time zone for any video interview.

Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship deadline & application timeline

The sponsor has not published a fixed deadline yet. Use the milestones below as a generic 12-month plan; substitute dates once the intake window opens.

12 months out
Register for tests (IELTS/TOEFL/SAT/GRE), shortlist 3–5 universities, identify referees.
6 months out
Sit your tests, draft a personal statement, request transcripts and confirm reference letters.
3 months out
Finalise essays, upload supporting documents, complete the online application portal.
1 month out
Final review, double-check uploaded files, submit a week before the deadline to avoid portal issues.
Application deadline
Submit by 23:59 in the sponsor's stated time zone — usually local to the sponsor, not your country.

Ready to apply?

Cross-check the latest eligibility rules and deadline on the sponsor's official portal before you start your application.

Visit official site

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the Postdoctoral level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, and be able to relocate to Germany for the duration of the programme.

Is the Humboldt Georg Forster Research Fellowship fully funded?+

Funding model: Funded — €2,700-€3,200/month plus additional benefits. Where listed as fully funded, the award typically covers tuition, monthly stipend, health insurance and round-trip airfare. Always confirm the latest funding breakdown on the sponsor's official page.

When is the application deadline?+

The application deadline is Not available — check official website. Submit at least one week early — sponsor portals frequently slow or fail in the final 24 hours, and late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

What documents do I need to apply?+

At minimum: passport bio page, academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, two to three references, and an English-language test score (IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo). Research-led Masters and PhD applications also require a research proposal and a writing sample.

How can I improve my chance of winning?+

Apply early, tailor every essay to the specific sponsor (do not recycle a generic statement), secure at least one reference who knows your work in detail, and apply to two or three additional scholarships in parallel — never rely on a single application.

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