Candidates can opt for a traditional PhD by research with a German supervisor, whom they must identify themselves, or participate in a structured PhD programme on offer at a German university. In this case, candidates must identify a PhD programme and apply to the programme in good time.

Funding can be awarded for three – four years.

Degree Level

PhD

Deadline

15 October

This scholarship is highly competitive. Candidates are advised to start their application a year before the deadline. Time must be factored in for the identification of a German supervisor or PhD programme in Germany and to prepare a convincing PhD proposal.

Who can apply?

• Master graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa who have obtained their master’s degree no more than six years ago.

Fields of Study

The scholarship can be taken up for all fields.

Scholarship Benefits

No tuition fees are charged in Germany for PhD studies in Germany. The scholarship covers living costs, travel and health insurance for the scholarship holder.

• Monthly scholarship payment for living costs: 1200 EUR; Health insurance;
• Travel allowance between Germany and home country;
• Research allowance;
• Rent subsidies and family supplements, if applicable.

Application Process

A letter of invitation from a German supervisor or a letter of acceptance into a PhD programme in Germany is needed for the DAAD funding application. Candidates must identify their own supervisor or PhD programme in Germany. The DAAD Information Centre Johannesburg (contact details below) can be contacted for more information.

The DAAD funding application is online through the DAAD application portal. More details can be founded under the links below.

Contact

The DAAD Information Centre Johannesburg can be contacted for support, advice and information:
Website: www.daad.org.za/contact
Email: daad@wits.ac.za