Applying for the DAAD Research Grant can feel overwhelming, but with a clear roadmap, it becomes a manageable—and even rewarding—process. This guide walks you through every step: from meeting the prerequisite qualifications to submitting your final application via the official DAAD portal.
1. Why the DAAD Research Grant?
The DAAD (Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst) is the world’s largest funding organization for the international exchange of students and researchers. A DAAD Research Grant offers:
Full funding for PhD research in Germany or a structured European doctorate program
Monthly stipend, travel allowance, health insurance, and allowances for family
Access to Germany’s world‑class research facilities and cutting‑edge laboratories
Membership in a global network of scholarship holders and alumni
Whether you’re in Pakistan, the USA, or elsewhere in Europe, a DAAD award can launch your academic career and open doors to international collaborations.
2. Prerequisite Qualifications
Before you begin, ensure you meet these basic requirements:
Academic Credentials: A degree equivalent to a German Master’s (minimum 18 years of education, e.g. MS/MPhil).
Recency: Your last degree must have been completed no more than six years ago.
Language Skills: For most programs, English is acceptable; some require German proficiency (often B2/C1 level).
Research Experience: Prior publications or thesis work will strengthen your application.
Note: DAAD Research Grants were once reserved for employed faculty, but recent PhD candidates and those completing MPhil/MS are now eligible.
3. Finding Your Research Topic
A strong research proposal starts with a clear question. To identify yours:
Survey the Literature: Read the latest national and international journals in your field.
Spot Gaps: What unanswered questions or unsolved problems exist?
Define Scope: Focus on a topic that is feasible within 1–3 years and leverages your skills.
Methodology: Decide whether your work is quantitative, qualitative, or mixed—and ensure you understand the methods.
Official Guideline: How to Develop a Research Project and Write a Research Proposal (PDF, 191.14 KB)
4. Locating and Contacting a Supervisor
Your Doktorvater or Doktormutter (PhD supervisor) is crucial. Here’s how to find and approach them:
Search Tools: Use the Research Explorer (GERiT) or PhD Germany database to locate professors working on your topic.
Institute Websites: Review their current projects and recent publications.
Craft a Synopsis: A 1–2‑page summary of your proposed project—once solidified—will help introduce yourself.
First Contact: Send a concise, personalized email with:
- A brief self‑introduction
- Your research synopsis
- Why you’re interested in their work
- Your CV and relevant publications
📄 Official Guideline: How to Find a Supervisor (PDF, 321.48 KB)
📄 Official Guideline: How to Make Contact to a Potential Supervisor (PDF, 192.90 KB)
5. Crafting Your Research Proposal
A compelling proposal convinces both a supervisor and the DAAD selection committee. Include:
Title & Abstract (200 words)
Introduction & Rationale: Background, significance, and research question
Literature Review: Key works and gaps you’ll address
Aims & Objectives: Clear, achievable goals
Methodology: Data sources, tools, and techniques
Timeline & Work Plan: Month‑by‑month breakdown (up to 36 months)
Expected Outcomes: Scholarly contributions, publications, or applications
References: Full citations in a recognized style (APA, MLA, etc.)
📄 Official Guideline: How to Develop a Research Project and Write a Research Proposal (PDF, 191.14 KB)
6. Preparing Your Statement of Purpose
Many DAAD structured PhD programs also require a Statement of Purpose (SOP) covering:
- Motivation: Why this project and Germany?
- Fit: How your background equips you for success
- Impact: Benefits for your career, home country, and field
- Language & Tone: Formal, concise, and error‑free
Tip: Keep your SOP to 1–2 pages, and avoid clichés. Focus on specific examples of past research and leadership.
7. Gathering Academic Records
All transcripts and certificates must be scanned into PDF—one per document. You’ll need:
SSC (Matric) – Transcript & Certificate
HSSC (Intermediate) – Transcript & Certificate
Bachelor’s – Transcript (all semesters) & Degree
Master’s (MS/MSc) – Transcript (all semesters) & Degree
MPhil (if applicable) – Transcript (all semesters) & Degree
English/German Proficiency – IELTS, TOEFL, TestDaF, or DSH score report
Ensure PDFs are clear, unencrypted, and under 5 MB each.
8. Letters of Recommendation
You’ll need two or three strong references:
Academic: Professors who know your research skills
Professional: Supervisors who can attest to your work ethic
Format: Either the DAAD form generated by the portal or a letter on official letterhead with a signature and seal
Contact referees early, share your proposal and CV, and remind them of deadlines.
9. Registering on the DAAD Portal
All applications are online via the DAAD e‑Services portal.
Visit: https://www.daad.de/daad‑e‑services
Create an Account: Click “New User Registration”, provide your email, and verify.
Login: Use your credentials to access the Scholarship Finder and select “Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes in Germany”.
Start Application: Fill in personal data, upload CV, Proposal, SOP, transcripts, and references.
Review & Save: You can save drafts and return before final submission.
🔗 DAAD Portal: https://www.daad.de/daad‑e‑services
10. Submitting Your Application
Before you hit “Submit”:
- Check Completeness: All fields filled, documents uploaded, references requested
- Proofread: No typos in proposal or SOP
- Confirm Deadlines: DAAD deadlines vary by country—usually October/November for grants beginning the following academic year
After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation email with an application ID. Keep this safe for tracking.
11. After Submission: What’s Next?
- Pre‑selection by the DAAD Headquarters
- Shortlisting and forwarding to binational selection committees (e.g., German Embassy in Pakistan)
- Interview (if required) via Skype or in‑person
- Final Decision: Successful applicants receive an award letter by March/April
Successful candidates must then apply for a German Research Visa at the nearest German Consulate or Embassy.
12. Key Official Documents & Web Links
DAAD e‑Services Portal: https://www.daad.de/daad‑e‑services
Scholarship Finder: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/datenbank/en/21148‑stipendien-finder/
Research Proposal Guide (PDF): https://www.daad.de/medien/daad_de/pdfs_nahaufnahme/daad_research_proposal_guideline.pdf
Find Supervisor Guide (PDF): https://www.daad.de/medien/daad_de/pdfs_nahaufnahme/daad_find_supervisor.pdf
Contact Supervisor Guide (PDF): https://www.daad.de/medien/daad_de/pdfs_nahaufnahme/daad_contact_supervisor.pdf
How to Apply: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/stipendium/en/
13. Conclusion & Top Tips for Success
Securing a DAAD Research Grant is highly competitive—but entirely possible if you:
Start early: Begin research and supervisor outreach 6–9 months before the deadline.
Stay organized: Maintain a checklist of documents, deadlines, and contacts.
Be professional: Tailor every email, adhere to guidelines, and proofread meticulously.
Showcase fit: Align your proposal and SOP with both your supervisor’s work and the DAAD’s mission.
Network: Leverage alumni groups and DAAD information events in your country.
With these steps, plus your own dedication and academic excellence, you’ll be well on your way to joining the ranks of DAAD scholars researching at top German and European institutions. Good luck on your journey to a fully funded PhD in Germany!
