PhD, PostdocMonthly scholarship payments of 1,400 Euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 Euros (for funding > 6 months). Additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, Green Mobility Top Up, and language course support.

Research Grants in Germany

Last verified 18 May 2026 by the Scholarships for Africans editorial team

The DAAD EPOS Research Grants offer international doctoral students and early post-doctoral researchers the opportunity to conduct a research project in Germany. This grant supports research stays at German universities or non-university research institutes, fostering academic collaboration and excellence. It offers comprehensive financial and practical support, including monthly stipends, insurance, travel allowances, and additional benefits for longer stays or specific needs. Applicants must meet strict eligibility criteria regarding the start or completion date of their doctorate and their residency in Germany. The application process is online and requires detailed documentation, including a research proposal, motivations, and recommendations, all evaluated by an independent selection committee based on academic qualification, research project quality, and applicant potential. Applications for funding must begin in 2026. Official deadlines are updated annually on the DAAD website, and early application is highly recommended.

Provider: DAAD EPOS
Host country: Germany
Deadline: Not available — check official website

Official source

Eligibility & requirements at a glance

Research Grants in Germany is open to African students applying to study in Germany at the PhD, Postdoc level, with monthly scholarship payments of 1,400 euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 euros (for funding > 6 months). additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, green mobility top up, and language course support. 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: PhD, Postdoc · applicants for Germany
Funding: Monthly scholarship payments of 1,400 Euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 Euros (for funding > 6 months). Additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, Green Mobility Top Up, and language course support.
Study level: PhD, Postdoc
Deadline: Not available — check official website

Key eligibility criteria

Doctoral students who started their doctorate no more than 3 years ago or postdocs who completed their doctorate no more than 4 years ago. Applicants must not be doing their entire doctorate at a German university and must not have resided in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline.

What the monthly scholarship payments of 1,400 euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 euros (for funding > 6 months). additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, green mobility top up, and language course support. award covers

Monthly stipend
Return airfare
Research/thesis support
Language preparation
Family/dependent support

About the Research Grants in Germany (2026)

## Research Grants in Germany (DAAD EPOS) ### Overview The DAAD EPOS Research Grants in Germany offer an exceptional opportunity for international doctoral students and early post-doctoral researchers to conduct a research project in Germany. The program aims to support research stays, facilitating collaboration with German universities and non-university research institutes. This grant is designed to foster research excellence and provide a conducive environment for scientific exploration and development. Applicants are expected to propose a well-defined research project to be carried out under the guidance of a scientific supervisor in Germany. The scholarship emphasizes both academic achievement and the potential for future contributions to the respective fields of study. ### Benefits Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial and practical support. The scholarship includes monthly payments of 1,400 Euros. Additionally, it covers payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance. A travel allowance is also provided to assist with relocation costs. For funding periods exceeding six months, a research allowance of 460 Euros is granted. Beyond these core benefits, scholars may be eligible for further assistance under specific circumstances, such as a monthly rent subsidy (for funding periods longer than six months) and a monthly allowance for accompanying family members (also for funding periods over six months). In cases of disability or chronic illness, a subsidy may be provided for justified additional costs incurred abroad. The scholarship also supports environmentally friendly travel through a Green Mobility Top Up or reimbursement of carbon offset payments for air travel. To enhance language skills, the DAAD offers benefits like an online language course, a German language course in Germany before the research project begins (if deemed necessary), an allowance for a personally chosen German language course during the scholarship period, and reimbursement for TestDaF or DSH test fees. ### Eligibility To be eligible for the Research Grants in Germany, applicants must meet specific criteria. Doctoral students should not have started their doctorate more than three years prior to the application deadline. Post-doctoral researchers must have completed their doctorate no more than four years before the application deadline. It is crucial to note that applicants who are doing their entire doctorate at a German university are not eligible. Furthermore, an application cannot be considered if the applicant has been a resident in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline. Specific regulations apply to applicants from the fields of human medicine, veterinary medicine, and dentistry, which can be found on the DAAD website. All applicants are expected to be enrolled in a doctoral program or to have completed their doctorate at a university or research institution outside Germany. ### Required Documents Applicants must submit a comprehensive set of documents through the DAAD portal. These include a full curriculum vitae in tabular form (maximum 3 pages) and, for postdocs, a mandatory list of published publications (maximum 10 pages). A letter of motivation (1-2 pages) is required, outlining academic and personal reasons for the research project in Germany and expected gains from the stay. A detailed research proposal (maximum 10 pages), formulated by the applicant in agreement with their German supervisor, is essential. This must be accompanied by a time schedule of the planned research work. Doctoral students need to provide proof of admission to doctoral studies or enrolment. A confirmation from the academic host in Germany is also mandatory, referring to the project and guaranteeing a workplace. A declaration from the scientific supervisor in Germany regarding safety-relevant and ethical aspects of the research project is required. University degree certificates with final grades (e.g., Bachelor's, Master's, doctorate) must be uploaded. Lastly, one recent supporting letter of recommendation on a DAAD form from a university teacher (for doctoral students, from the supervisor of their doctoral thesis) providing information about qualifications is necessary. German or English translations must accompany any documents submitted in a national language. Optional documents include certificates of employment or proof of extracurricular engagement. ### How to Apply The application process is conducted entirely online through the DAAD portal. Applicants must first register on the DAAD portal. During the application period, applicants can generate the recommendation form as a writable PDF under "Request recommendation form" and send it to their university teacher for completion. Once returned, it must be uploaded to the portal under "Letter of Recommendation." The online application form must be completed in full, and all required documents – prepared, translated (if necessary), and scanned as PDF files – must be uploaded to the portal in the designated sections. It is crucial to ensure all documents are submitted by the application deadline, as incomplete applications will not be considered. The DAAD portal closes at 24:00 hrs (CET or CEST) on the last application day, so applicants are advised to submit well in advance to avoid technical issues. Technical support is available via email at portal@daad.de or by phone (+49 (0) 228 882-8888) during specific hours. ### Key Dates The application deadlines for the Research Grants in Germany are updated annually in the second quarter. While specific dates for the current year are not provided in the source text, it is indicated that they are generally in the same period as the previous year. The funding for successful applicants must begin in 2026. The DAAD portal typically opens at least six weeks before the application deadline, providing ample time for applicants to prepare and submit their materials. Due to the annual updates, prospective applicants are strongly advised to regularly check the official DAAD scholarship database for the most current deadlines and application period information. This ensures that all submissions are made within the valid timeframe. ### Selection Criteria An independent selection committee, comprised of specialist scientists, reviews all applications based on several key criteria. These include **Academic Qualification**, which assesses academic achievements (grade point average, progression of grades), academic progress, knowledge of the language(s) of instruction or working language(s), and, if applicable, scholarly achievements post-graduation (e.g., publications, lectures, conference papers). The **Quality of research project** is evaluated based on the originality, topicality, and relevance of the project, the choice of the host institution and initial contacts, and the feasibility and consistency of the study plan and schedule. For doctoral candidates, the incorporation of the project within the overall doctorate (in terms of content and time) is also considered. Finally, the **Potential of applicant** is assessed through career prospects (significance of the research project and stay in Germany for academic, professional, and personal development), motivation (academic and personal reasons for visiting Germany, German language skills), and non-study-related activities (e.g., civic engagement). The selection committee also prioritizes equal opportunities, allowing applicants to provide relevant information in their application form. ### Tips Prospective applicants should meticulously review all application requirements and guidelines provided on the official DAAD website. It is highly recommended to start the application process early, especially considering the need for a letter of recommendation and the detailed research proposal. Applicants should ensure their research proposal is well-structured, original, and clearly outlines the methodology and objectives, developed in close consultation with their proposed academic supervisor in Germany. Demonstrating a strong understanding of how the research stay in Germany aligns with personal, professional, and academic goals is crucial for the letter of motivation. Pay close attention to the formatting and translation requirements for all documents. Finally, to avoid last-minute technical issues, submit the application well before the official deadline. ### Official Source For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Research Grants in Germany, please refer to the official DAAD scholarship database: [https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742121&page=1](https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742121&page=1). This page provides comprehensive details on the program, including benefits, eligibility criteria, application procedures, and contact information. Additional important information for DAAD scholarship applicants can be found at [https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/important-information-for-scholarship-applicants/](https://www.daad.de/en/study-and-research-in-germany/scholarships/important-information-for-scholarship-applicants/).

What the Monthly scholarship payments of 1,400 Euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 Euros (for funding > 6 months). Additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, Green Mobility Top Up, and language course support. Research Grants in Germany 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.

Monthly stipend
Return airfare
Research/thesis support
Language preparation
Family/dependent support

Research Grants in Germany eligibility for Germany applicants

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

Doctoral students who started their doctorate no more than 3 years ago or postdocs who completed their doctorate no more than 4 years ago. Applicants must not be doing their entire doctorate at a German university and must not have resided in Germany for longer than 15 months at the application deadline.

Documents required for the Research Grants in Germany 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
Research proposal or statement of purpose (500–2,000 words for PhD)
Published or unpublished writing sample (PhD and research-led Masters)
Country-of-origin proof (national ID or birth certificate) — required by many Africa-focused funders

How to apply for the Research Grants in Germany 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://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742121&page=1 and verify the sponsor's stated criteria match your profile — currently: "Doctoral students who started their doctorate no more than 3 years ago or postdocs who completed their doctorate no more than 4 years ago. Applicants must not be doing their entire doctorate at a German university and mu…". Sponsor rules change between intakes, so always confirm against the live call.
2
Secure a study place or admission offer
Identify a supervisor whose research aligns with yours, exchange emails, and either obtain a conditional offer or confirmation that they will host your project. Many DAAD EPOS awards require this before the funding application opens.
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 focused 1,000–2,000-word research proposal and a separate personal statement. Tailor every paragraph to the sponsor's stated priorities — generic recycled essays are the most common reason strong applicants are rejected.
5
Complete the online application
Create an account on https://www2.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148-scholarship-database/?status=&origin=&subjectGrps=&daad=&intention=&q=&page=1&lang=en&sd=1&detail=57742121&page=1, 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, DAAD EPOS 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.

Research Grants in Germany 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

Editorial verification note

The page states that application deadlines are updated annually in the second quarter, but no date is provided on the page itself, other than that funding must begin in 2026.

Last checked 5/18/2026

Frequently asked questions

Who can apply for the Research Grants in Germany?+

Applicants must be eligible African nationals applying at the PhD, Postdoc level, meet the academic and English-language requirements set by DAAD EPOS, and be able to relocate to Germany for the duration of the programme.

Is the Research Grants in Germany fully funded?+

Funding model: Monthly scholarship payments of 1,400 Euros; payments towards health, accident, and personal liability insurance; travel allowance; research allowance of 460 Euros (for funding > 6 months). Additional benefits include rent subsidy, family allowance, disability support, Green Mobility Top Up, and language course support.. 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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