Germany Humboldt Research Fellowship 2027 Application Window Open: Apply this Way

The Humboldt Research Fellowship will reopen on November 15, 2026, giving international postdoctoral and experienced researchers another opportunity to conduct funded research in Germany. The current round has already reached its maximum of 800 applications, so new candidates cannot submit today. Researchers should use this waiting period to secure a German host and prepare the documents required for the next call.

What Does the Humboldt Research Fellowship Fund?

Selected fellows receive substantial monthly support while completing an independent research project with a host at a German university or research institution. Postdoctoral researchers receive €3,000 monthly for six to 24 months. Experienced researchers receive €3,600 monthly for six to 18 months.

Additional assistance may include travel allowances, private health-insurance subsidies, benefits for accompanying partners and children, and intensive German-language training for the fellow and partner. The fellowship may be divided into as many as three separate stays within three years.

Who Can Apply for the 2027 Fellowship?

This opportunity is for researchers with above-average academic records from any discipline and nearly every country. Applicants should check the correct career category before preparing an application:

• Postdoctoral applicants must normally have completed their doctorate within the previous four years. Researchers expecting to finish before the selection meeting may apply if they can document their research findings and satisfy the publication conditions.
• Experienced researchers must normally have completed their doctorate within the previous 12 years and demonstrate an independent research profile, important publications and an appropriate leadership-level academic position.

There is no fixed age restriction. Career-stage limits are calculated from completion of the doctorate, although recognized parental leave and other documented career breaks may extend them.

Applicants generally must not have stayed in Germany for more than 90 days during the 18 months before applying. They also need a German academic host who will provide a mentoring agreement, a detailed statement and confirmation that research facilities are available.

Is IELTS Required for Humboldt Research Fellowship?

IELTS is not specifically required. Natural-science and engineering applicants need good English or German. Researchers in humanities, social sciences or medicine need German only when it is necessary for their proposed work; otherwise, good English is sufficient.

How to Apply for the Humboldt Research Fellowship

• Find a suitable academic host at a German university or research institution.
• Discuss your proposed research project with the potential host.
• Obtain the host’s detailed statement and confirmation that research facilities are available.
• Prepare a two-page academic CV.
• Write a research outline of no more than five pages.
• Prepare your complete publication list and selected key-publications list.
• Upload copies of your most important publications.
• Provide your doctoral certificate or proof that your doctorate will be completed before the selection meeting.
• Arrange two expert reviews; referees must upload these themselves through the protected system.
• Add a German-language certificate only if German is necessary for your research.
• Submit the completed application through the official Humboldt Foundation online portal.
• Ensure the host uploads the required documents, because the application is not formally received until the host completes this step.
• Apply promptly when the next call opens on November 15, 2026, because the round will close after receiving 800 applications.

When Will the Next Application Call Open?

The next Humboldt Research Fellowship call opens on November 15, 2026, for the July 2027 selection meeting. Successful fellows may begin from September 2027. Because each call closes after 800 applications, candidates should complete their documents before the portal reopens. Prepare and apply.