DAAD Scholarships 2027-2028 for PhD at German Universities of Applied Sciences (HAWs)

The DAAD has launched a special program under its HAW. International initiative, offering research scholarships for doctoral students at German Universities of Applied Sciences (HAWs). Known for their strong practice-oriented focus, HAWs are internationally respected, and this program aims to strengthen their global engagement.

The scholarships support doctoral candidates in conducting research stays abroad lasting from one to six months. These stays can take place at universities, research institutions, or through independent fieldwork and archival studies. Flexibility is a core feature—research periods can be split across multiple countries, institutions, or timelines to best align with the project’s goals.

With funding that covers living expenses, travel, insurance, and research allowances, the program provides doctoral researchers with valuable opportunities to expand their academic work internationally. The initiative is designed to foster collaboration, intercultural exchange, and academic excellence while helping young scholars gain vital global experience.

What is Funded?

The DAAD Scholarship funds research stays abroad as part of a doctoral program at a German university of applied sciences. Projects may take place at universities, research institutions, or through independent fieldwork and archival research.

Stays can be flexibly arranged across one or multiple institutions, countries, or time periods, provided the plan is well justified.

Each grant lasts 1–6 months, with a maximum of two grants allowed per doctoral degree (separated by at least 6 months). The total maximum funding period is 12 months, and extensions are not possible.

Applicants must prepare and submit the following application-required documents

Online DAAD application form

CV (max. 3 pages)

Detailed doctoral project description (5–8 pages)

Research stay schedule (tabular format)

Letter of motivation (1–2 pages)

Academic certificates and transcripts

Summary of the most recent thesis

Proof of doctoral acceptance or confirmation of dissertation topic

For cooperative doctorates: cooperation agreement

Confirmation from host institution abroad (if applicable)

Publication list (if any)

Language proficiency proof (if required for fieldwork/interviews)

Letter of recommendation from doctoral supervisor (with DAAD cover sheet)

Applicants must

Enrolled as a doctoral student at a German HAW, or in a cooperative doctoral program with a German university

Doctoral studies started no more than 3 years before the application deadline (exceptions possible)

Non-German nationals may apply

Not eligible if receiving doctoral scholarships from organizations that already cover similar international stays

Must provide proof of doctoral acceptance and dissertation topic

The scholarship selection process and criteria are as follows

Applications reviewed by expert committees of German university professors appointed by DAAD

There are no interviews, but the decisions will be made based on documents only

Criteria include

Academic record and achievements

Research quality, originality, and feasibility

Integration of stay abroad into doctoral project

Motivation, regional knowledge, and language skills

Relevance for academic/professional growth

Social engagement or extracurricular contributions

Exceptional circumstances (e.g., personal hardships) may be considered

The DAAD Scholarships offer the following benefits

The monthly stipend of €1875 for Afghanistan (varies by host country; see the DAAD calculator)

Travel allowance of €1188 for Afghan (check your country)

Health, accident, and liability insurance

Flat rate of €102/month for research and conference costs

Possible additional funding

Tuition fee subsidy (within limits)

Language course support

Family allowances for spouses/children

Grants for research-related local travel

Travel/accommodation expenses for supervising lecturer abroad (up to 10 days)

Support for disability- or illness-related additional costs

Register and apply via the DAAD portal using the link below

Upload all required documents in the German or English “Attachments” section of the DAAD portal.

Apply at least 3 months before the intended research stay

Ensure documents are complete, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed

Await decision via DAAD communication

For further details and information, please visit the official DAAD website.