HAW International Research Scholarships 2026 at Universities of Applied Sciences (DAAD)

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has opened applications for the HAW.International: Research Scholarships for Doctoral Students, an exciting opportunity designed for PhD candidates enrolled at universities of applied sciences (HAWs/Fachhochschulen) in Germany. This program aims to strengthen international collaboration while supporting doctoral researchers through practice-oriented and impactful global experiences.

Program Objective

The initiative allows doctoral students at German universities of applied sciences to conduct research stays abroad, building valuable academic and professional networks. These stays can be between 1 to 6 months and may take place in one or multiple countries. The funding is flexible, allowing applicants to spread their research visits across different periods during their doctorate.

Who Can Apply?

The HAW international research scholarship in Germany for the class of 2026 is open to candidates who:

• Are pursuing a doctorate at a German university of applied sciences with the right to award doctorates.
• Are completing a cooperative doctorate involving a German HAW and another German university.
• Are international or German students (non-German citizens are also eligible).

Note: Doctoral scholarship holders from organizations that promote gifted students are not eligible, as they already have access to similar funding opportunities.

What is Funded?

The HAW International scholarship program funds research projects abroad that are part of a doctoral program in Germany. These projects may take place at:

• Universities,
• Non-university research institutions,
• Archives, or through independent field research.

Successful applicants receive a generous support package including:

• Monthly scholarship rate based on the host country (for doctoral students).
• Travel allowance depending on destination.
• Health, accident, and private liability insurance.
• Research and conference cost allowance of €102 per month.
• Additional optional benefits such as:
  1. Tuition fee subsidies,
  2. Language course funding,
  3. Family support for accompanying spouses/children,
  4. Grants for field-related travel within the host country,
  5. Travel and accommodation expenses for supervising professors (up to 10 days).

The funding may be received twice during the doctorate, with a maximum total duration of 12 months.

Application Deadline

Applications for this HAW international scholarship in Germany are accepted on a continuous basis in 2025-2026, but must be submitted no later than three months before the planned stay abroad.

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