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How to get a visa for my doctorate studies in Germany?

Getting to know why there is a clear indication of ever-increasing number of foreign doctoral candidates in Germany, specifying that one in seven doctoral candidates in there is an international student, we surely rely on the welcoming quality and standard of the doctoral education system, research programs and research infrastructure, as talked about in our article series “ Why should I choose Germany for my abroad Ph.D. Studies ?”

Regardless of this, being a foreign candidate for doctoral (Ph.D.) studies you must undeniably be aware that German entrance and residence policies involve visa and residence restrictions for nationals seeking to legitimately enter and reside in Germany to pursue their doctoral education. German embassies or consulates are the sole legitimized authorities for issuing visa – an official authorization for a lawful entrance, a reserved right for non-German nationals, guaranteed under German law, the Residence Act, section 71, paragraph 2.

Who do and who do not need a German visa

As regards of visa-restrictions, entrance policies and regulations of the German state, you must be aware that they differ depending on the country of origin of the German visa – seeker. In this regards, there are three main categories of foreigners seeking to enter Germany, categorized based on their entrance policy applied.

Nationals from the European Economic Area (members of the European Union, Liechtenstein and Norway, Iceland)

In lieu with this category of foreigners, as freedom of movement applies, there is no need for such nationals to get a visa for entering Germany, solely an identification card at the moment of traveling to Germany. This category is simply required to register at the Resident Registration Office (or Citizen Service) “ Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt ”, if planning to stay longer than three months.

When registering, as an national of this category you should provide the following documents: duly completed application form in German language the so-called “ Anmeldeformular ”, identification card or passport, if applied marriage status certificate in German.

Upon the registration, you will become a holder of a registration certificate “ Anmeldebestätigung ”, serving for your daily activities as well as for opening your German bank account and for your enrollment in doctoral studies.

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Nationals from Australia, Honduras, Israel, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, Republic of South Korea, United States of America

Being a national of this category, you are not required to have German visa for entering Germany. Though, if scheduling to reside longer than three months, you are obliged to register at local authorities the Resident Registration Office or Citizen Service “ Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt ” within a week of your arrival.

What is more, upon the registration – as you take your registration certificate, you shall immediately apply for the proper residence permit concerning to the purpose of your stay inside the Germany, at Foreigners Authority (or Foreigners Registration Office) the so-called “ Ausländerbehörde ”.

Nationals from the third world

If you come from other countries than the aforementioned – the so-called third-world countries, you are a subject to get the appropriate visa for entering the territories of the German state, linked to the purpose of your travel/residence in Germany. Hence, your visa application must clearly indicate the reason for requiring visa – coupled with supporting documents, at the home German Embassy or Consulate. The German visa application form is available online and you can download it free-of-charge in the website of German Embassy or Consulate of your home country or in  Germany VISA website .

Once you arrive in Germany, you have to register at the Resident Registration Office within a week from your accommodation. After you get the registration certificate, you must apply for the proper residence permit at Foreigners Authority. The residence permit will be the basic document for legitimizing your enrollment in university or research institution.

A few things to consider before visa application

Consider you have not yet applied for a visa, despite that you are not thus-far touching the needed confidence and surety that your travel to Germany will ever about to happen, conversely, still there are things to consider and arrange earlier. Let us see which are the important matters defining your prosperous visa-application, stay and enrollment.

Be careful on applying for the appropriate visa

The applicable German visa for foreign doctoral candidates is the so-called “Student Visa”- intended for foreign doctoral and other higher education students seeking to get higher education in Germany.

Leave behind the idea of entering Germany through Tourist Visa, as once in Germany, this type of visa cannot be altered into scientific or any other kind of German visa. Consequently, you will be required to depart Germany, if exceeding Tourist visa allowed period of stay.

Be early enough on your visa-application

We are not sure if you knew this, but visa application sometimes might take long time processing, up to a month or months. Make sure you apply immediately after receiving your notification of admission as a doctoral candidate – the acceptance of your doctoral mentor. Do not forget that you cannot move in Germany without a visa, so try to be punctual on your visa-application in case you do not want to be late for your enrollment.

Be punctual for your enrollment

As aforementioned, enrollment is amongst most important processes for your doctoral studies – the time when you will formally will be entitled as a doctoral candidate who is ready to get involved in the doctoral studies program. Make sure you arrange entering Germany on time, so you get the time for accommodation, registration, getting the residence permit, opening the bank account and adapting yourself with the neighboring location. Your tranquility is needed for your future engagement as a doctoral candidate, so take things under control by scheduling properly actions before.

Be sure your passport validity does not expire soon

Well, as understood by the title, when the volume of requirements and tasks-lists pressures you out, it is so common forgetting something that is pretty important, such as the validity of your passport. Hence, you make sure that before applying for a visa, you get your passport validity extended at least up to the period of your planned stay in Germany. We regret to say it, but if not doing so – you will be obliged to travel back in your country for extending it for returning to Germany. Remember this, make sure you do not spend money and study time unnecessarily.

Meeting Visa requirements

We all agree that visa application is a very delicate and infuriating process, though when planned properly, success is fail-safe. In this spirit, we want to present you specifics – as regards of requirements, which can make your application efficacious supporting you in getting the German visa.

German student visa for non-national researchers

As an admitted doctoral candidate in Germany, you will be required to apply for the German “Student Visa” type.

Applying for such a visa, you will need to provide at the German Embassy or Consulate in your country the following documents:

• Duly completed student visa application form,
• Valid passport (recommended with a validity up to the period of studies or more),
• Recent Photos,
• Proof of mentors acceptance to supervise your doctoral thesis work– as a proof for your right of entry doctoral studies in Germany,
• Proof of health insurance ,
• Proof of sufficient financial coverage for the given period of doctoral studies – typically a blocked German bank account ,
• Certificates of education (all formal and informal education),
• Proof of sufficient German and/or English language skills (depending on the language of the doctoral program).

The Most Important Student Visa Requirement is The Proof of Financial Resources – Increase Your Chances of Getting Your Student Visa With a German Blocked Account.

Learn more about the German Blocked Account at Fintiba

*Note: You make sure being punctual for the visa interview and talk with you all the required documents. In addition, keep in mind that visa is issued before entering Germany, and in any circumstances, you are not allowed to act differently, as regards of entering in German territories.

Requiring a German residence permit

Let us consider that you have entered Germany, found the accommodation and within a week, you applied to register at the local Residence Registration Office. Once you have received the registration certificate, you shall immediately apply for the residence permit – a formal document issued to legitimize your long-term residency in Germany. Foreigners Authority is the address where you should apply for your residence permit, requiring the legitimate residency for pursuing your doctoral studies.

The documents required to provide during your application for residence permit are:

• Duly completed residence permit application form,
• Certificate of mentor’s acceptance to supervise your doctoral thesis work,
• Proof of possessing the adequate and sufficient health insurance – needed also for the enrollment in a university / research institution,
• Certificates of earlier education,
• Proof of language skills – not at all times,
• Proof of sufficient funding resources.

German residence permit for doctoral candidates

In accordance with the Act on the Residence, Economic Activity and Integration of Foreigners in the Federal Territory, Chapter II, Part 3, Section 16, as an foreign doctoral candidate who has entered Germany through Student Visa you will become a subject to require Residence Permit for Educational Purposes – as a form to legitimize your stay, study and economic activity in Germany.

This kind of residence permit allows you, as a legitimized doctoral candidate to:

• Reside in Germany for pursuing doctoral studies – equal rights to German citizens,
• Involve in economic activity through an employment – max. 120 full-days or 240 half-days /per year, which should not be interruptive with study schedule,
• The opportunity to extend your residence validity up to 18 months, after a successful completion of your doctoral studies under job-seeking purposes,
• Residence permit re-extend, if you find a firm-job related to your qualification – the extend goes up to the work contract period.

Benefits of being a German residence-permit holder

In the face of benefits that you take from your specific residence permit for education purposes, there are, likewise, general benefits that all residence holders (largely) receive, such as:

• Safe livelihood inside territories of Germany,
• German foreign identity, guaranteeing you to remain inside the territories of Germany for a specific period,
• Securing document which proves you have applied for the right German visa and you are not jeopardizing German rules and regulations of residency and involvement in education and economic activity,
• Right to use highly developed health services,
• Right to take part in cultural and social activities.

References and useful information:

• German student visas and permits
• 6 Top Reasons that Could Get Your German Student Visa Rejected
• Student Visa Interview Questions, Answers and Tips

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On 23 June 2023, the German Bundestag passed a new immigration law for skilled workers (Fachkräfteeinwanderungsgesetz). The new law will come into effect beginning in November 2023 , with new regulations being introduced gradually. We plan to update our website when the law is fully in effect . Until then, please make sure to check individually if information on entry, the EU Blue Card, recognition of qualifications and family reunion is up to date. Some changes also affect refugees who are in an asylum procedure. Please note: the law aims at loosening regulations and will not create more restrictions. An English-language summary of the new regulations can be found on the Make it in Germany website.

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As an international researcher, relatively simple entry conditions will apply to you. If you are a citizen of the EU , a citizen of the European Economic Area (ERA) or a Swiss citizen , you do not need any particular permit or visa. You can research and work here. You only need a valid passport or ID card.

If you are an international researcher already working or doing a PhD in the EU , you can also spend a certain period of time – up to 180 days for short-term mobility and up to a year for long-term mobility – conducting research in Germany without applying for any additional residence permit. Your host institution merely has to notify the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees accordingly.

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Visa requirements for non-EU citizens

In all other cases, a visa will be required if you are not from the EU, a country of the European Economic Area or Switzerland and intend to work as a researcher in Germany. You will have to apply for the respective visa in your country of residence by visiting the relevant German diplomatic mission – an embassy or consulate – in person.

Depending on what you wish to do in Germany, special visa are available to you as a researcher:

• a visa for studying
• a visa for researchers and scientists or
• an EU Blue Card , a special residence title for international academics.

Make sure to check in good time with the German diplomatic mission in your country of residence to find out which conditions apply to you and which requirements you will need to meet. You should also check if there are any documents that need to be translated into German before your visa application or if any of your qualifications need to be officially recognised .

You can find more information on the recognition of foreign professional qualifications on our page for refugee researchers.

After your visa is approved, once you have arrived in Germany you will have to apply for a residence permit , usually at the local foreigners’ office or immigration office (Ausländerbehörde or Landesamt für Einwanderung). Some countries , such as Australia, Israel, Japan and the USA, have agreements with Germany: their citizens do not need an entry visa and only have to obtain the required residence permits after arrival.

Residence permits for international researchers

Upon arrival in Germany, you will apply on the basis of your visa for a corresponding residence permit. You can read here which residence permits are available to you as an international researcher and what rights they give you.

Studying for a PhD

You are interested in a PhD in Germany and have been accepted into a PhD programme at a state-recognised university in Germany? Then you can obtain a residence permit for study purposes . It is valid for up to two years and can be extended.

Besides your confirmation of admission from the university, you also need to demonstrate that you can cover your living expenses – for example with a scholarship. However, as a PhD student you are also permitted to work for up to 120 days (or 240 half days) per year.

There are different ways to obtain a doctorate in Germany. If you work with a contract at a university or research institution while doing your PhD, you can apply for a residence permit for research purposes or an EU Blue Card (see below).

A residence permit for study or research purposes also allows you to study for up to 360 days in other EU member states (with the exception of Ireland and Denmark).

Doing research

If you are a researcher with a university degree that gives you access to doctoral programmes , simple regulations will apply to you: you will receive a residence permit for research purposes . This presupposes that a research institution has signed a contract with you to pursue your research project. The research residence permit also enables you to do teaching work as a scientist.

If your research work is not publicly funded for the most part, your host institution must provide written confirmation that it will cover your costs of living and departure, if necessary.

This residence permit allows you to spend at least one year researching and teaching in Germany with the possibility to extend it for a longer period of time. After four years, you can apply for an indefinite settlement permit in Germany. Another advantage is that you can easily spend a temporary period researching and teaching in other EU countries (apart from Ireland and Denmark).

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a special residence permit for graduates from outside the EU who wish to work in Germany (or the EU).

You are entitled to an EU Blue Card if you

• have a university degree that is recognised in Germany,
• have a binding offer of a job that matches your qualifications in Germany and
• will earn at least 58,400 euros gross per year in your new job (in exceptional cases, and with the approval of the Federal Employment Agency, only up to 45,552 euros).

The EU Blue Card initially allows you to work in Germany for up to four years (less in the case of fixed-term employment contracts).

After 33 months, it is possible to obtain a settlement permit , which then allows you to live and work in Germany indefinitely . If you have a sufficient command of German (the requirement is level B1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages ), this is possible after just 21 months.

As an EU Blue Card holder, you can obtain the right of permanent residence in the EU after five years. In addition to the time you have spent in Germany, any periods in which you lived in another EU member state will also count towards the total.

Highly qualified professionals

If you are a researcher with special technical knowledge or a teacher or research associate in a prominent position with several years of professional experience, you count as highly qualified.

This means that you can obtain a permanent settlement permit immediately after entry. This requires you to prove that you can cover your living expenses in Germany.

Good to know

If you require a visa, check the requirements before starting the process ; some bureaucratic procedures in your country may take time.

Visa application is by appointment only . Arrange an appointment as early as possible and check which (certified) documents you will need to bring with you.

Do not travel on a tourist visa if you wish to work in Germany. A tourist visa cannot be modified or extended.

In general, your visa remains valid for up to six months . Within this period, you must apply to the local immigration office for a residence permit on the basis of your visa.

Citizens of so-called Schengen countries can cross the borders of all Schengen Agreement member states without passport checks. However, not all EU members fully apply the Schengen Agreement, while some non-EU countries do. If you have a Schengen visa, you can spend up to 90 days in the Schengen area. Visiting other EU states which are not Schengen states may require a separate visa.

More information

• Visa navigator of the Federal Foreign Office
• FAQs regarding visas for Germany by the Federal Foreign Office
• Visa and entry regulations explained step by step on the Make it in Germany website
• Interactive world map with an overview of Germany’s diplomatic missions abroad on the Make it in Germany website
• Information for scientists coming to Germany by the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF)
• Information on entry requirements as well as short- and long-term mobility within the EU for non-EU citizens on the EU Immigration Portal

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• Purposeful Introduction: Articulate the rationale behind your proposal. Clearly elucidate the objectives of your research project, painting a vivid picture of its significance.
• Detailed Project Description: Delve into the specifics. Outline the scope and boundaries of your research. Highlight what your study encompasses and what it purposefully excludes.
• Research Aims: Define the overarching goals. What insights do you aspire to glean? How will your research contribute to your field? Unveil the questions you aim to address.
• Focused Problem Statement: Spotlight the issue at hand. Articulate the problem you’re addressing and explain why it merits attention in your field.
• Literature Review: Incorporate key scholarly works. Integrate relevant studies that shape the backdrop of your research, showcasing your understanding of the existing landscape.
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Visa Service for Phd Candidates and Researchers

• The date of your arrival in Germany
• Your visa expiry date
• The purpose of your stay (e.g. employment status, doctoral studies etc.)
• How your stay is funded (e.g. employment contract, scholarship etc.)
• Your status at Humboldt-Universität (e.g. employee, enrolled doctoral student etc.)
• If applicable: Let us know the names of any other family members who also want to apply for a residence permit at the same time.
• Immigration Office residence title application form (you will find this form on the Immigration Office website ) 
• Confirmation that you have registered your place of residence in Berlin
• Proof of health insurance valid in Germany
• Valid passport
• A biometric passport photo which complies with German regulations for passport pictures (ideally you should have this photo taken in Germany and let the photographer know that it is required for a passport)
• Proof of funding – for example an employment contract, a payslip or a scholarship certificate
• Documentation relating to the purpose of your stay. Depending on the role in which you are doing research at Humboldt-Universität, this may be proof of registration, an employment contract or a letter of invitation from the department/host institution
• Marriage/birth certificate – if you also wish to apply for a residence permit for other family members
• Certificate of school attendance for school-age children – if you also wish to apply for a residence permit for them
• The International Scholar Services help you with questions on applying for and extending a residence permit.
• We can apply for a residence permit on your behalf, meaning that you do not have to visit the Immigration Office in person.

If so please contact the International Scholar Services.

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Coming to Germany as a scientist , Date: 2020.03.01 , format: Article , area: Migration and residence

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Several options are available enabling scientific personnel to come to Germany for teaching and research purposes.

Residence for research purposes

Hotline working and living in germany.

Frankenstraße 210 90461 Nürnberg

Phone +49 30-1815-1111 E-mail: Write a message

In order to be able to conduct research in Germany, you must have concluded either

• an admission agreement, or
• a contract with the research establishment concerned.

This may be any organisation at which research is carried out - from a University through to a research department within a company.

The residence permit for research purposes also enables you to carry out teaching work as a scientist. You can furthermore spend a limited period carrying out research in other EU States without requiring an additional residence title there. Further information on this can be found under Mobility in the EU (see at "Further information/Texts and articles").

Once the research contract or the admission agreement has expired, you can apply for your residence permit to be extended for up to nine months so that you can seek employment in Germany. Your future job must match your qualifications.

Residence for employment

Good to know.

If you need to apply for your first residence title so that you can engage in research in Germany, you may be entitled to apply both for a residence permit for researchers and an EU Blue Card for highly-qualified persons. Please note that it will no longer be possible to transfer from the Blue Card to a residence permit for researchers from 1 March 2020 onwards.

You can also carry out scientific and resarch work if you hold a residence title for employment purposes, provided that you have a job offer and two further conditions are fulfilled:

• Your academic qualifications must enable you to take up the desired employment.
• If you have graduated from a foreign higher-education establishment, the equivalence of your qualification to a corresponding German degree must be ascertained. The "anabin" database of the Standing Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs provides a good overview in this regard.

Scientists with special expert knowledge as well as teaching and scientific personnel in prominent positions can be granted open-ended residence immediately. Further information in this connection is to be found in the section entitled "Settling in Ger­many" (see at "Further information/Texts and articles").

Residence for doctoral candidates

As a PhD student, there are various ways in which you can obtain a doctorate in Germany. The type of residence permit depends in particular on how your livelihood is to be assured in Germany.

• If you have concluded an employment contract or an admission agreement with a research establishment, you may qualify for a residence title for employment or research purposes or an EU Blue Card.
• If you have a half-time position or less, you may be able to obtain a residence title for study purposes.
• Scholarship holders receive a residence title for study purposes.

There are also various ways in which your livelihood can be ensured while you are studying for your Doctorate. You may for instance support yourself from your own savings, or your parents may provide a guarantee. The "Working and Living in Germany Hotline" can advise you as to which residence titles are possible in these cases.

After you have graduated from a German higher-education establishment and worked in a job matching your qualifications for two years, you can be issued with an open-ended residence title in Germany.

The legal basis

• Section 16b of the Residence Act
• Section 18b of the Residence Act
• Section 18c of the Residence Act
• Section 18d of the Residence Act
• Section 20 of the Residence Act
• The Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (Berufsqualifikationsfeststellungsgesetz)
• Section 2 of the Employment Ordinance (BeschV)

Further information

Texts and articles.

• First steps
• Skilled workers with an academic education
• Subsequent immigration to join third-country nationals
• Mobility in the EU
• Settling in Germany
• Jobbörse of the Federal Employment Agency
• Make it in Germany

• Visa for research

Would you like to join the dynamic world of research in Germany? Then a visa for research is probably exactly what you need.

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Are you looking to work in Germany as a researcher? If so, you will need to apply for a visa for research in accordance with Section 18d on the Residence Act - AufenthG . To find out whether you require a visa to enter Germany, see Who needs a visa?

What are the requirements to receive a visa for research?

• You have concluded a hosting agreement or a work contract with a research institute in Germany.
• The research institute commits itself in writing to cover your living and travel costs back to your country of origin, which otherwise have to be covered by public funds. This commitment applies for up to 6 months after the research position has ended. This clause is not applicable if your research position is primarily funded by public funds. 

Do you meet these requirements? Learn about the procedure for the entry and visa process .

You are considered a “researcher” if you have at least a PhD/doctorate or a suitable university degree enabling you to access PhD degree programmes ( Article 3 of Directive (EU) 2016/801 ).

Are you a highly qualified professional in the fields of science or research? Do you not fulfil the requirements for a research visa in accordance with Section 18d of the Residence Act (AufenthG) ? If so, the EU Blue Card  could be an alternative for you.

What opportunities does the visa for research offer?

The visa or residence permit for research is issued for at least one year and gives you many advantages:

• With this residence permit, you can work at the research institute listed in your work contract or you can take on a teaching position.
• It is possible to extend your residence permit provided you fulfil the same requirements.
• You can conduct research and teach for a limited period of time in other EU states (with the exception of the United Kingdom, Ireland and Denmark).
• After four years, you can receive a settlement permit  in Germany. You must, however, meet the requirements for a settlement permit .

Once your research position has ended, you have up to nine months to find another position in Germany that is in line with your qualifications. You must then apply for a residence permit for job seekers in accordance with Section 20 (3) no. 2 of the Residence Act (AufenthG) at your nearest foreigners authority .

Doctoral students from third countries can obtain a residence permit for research. As a requirement, they must complete their doctoral thesis as part of a work contract with a research facility in Germany. If the research position is a component of the PhD program as a full-time program, only a  visa for studying  can be issued.

Mobility arrangements for international researchers

International researchers from non-EU member states who are legally residing in EU Member States may perform part of their research in Germany. In such cases, there are two options that allow you to stay in Germany:

• A residence permit for short-term research stays is not required: if you already hold a residence title from another EU Member State for the purpose of research, and you would like to stay in Germany for a maximum of 180 days within 360 days as part of a research project, you do not need to apply for a German visa or residence permit. The only requirement to fulfil is that the research institute in Germany for which you will be conducting research must inform the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) about the planned research. Go to the website of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) to find out what your research institute needs to inform the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees about, in addition to the procedure for doing so.
• You must hold a valid residence title of another EU Member State for research purposes. This permit must be valid for the duration of your planned stay in Germany for research purposes.
• You must submit a copy of a valid passport or travel document issued in lieu of a passport.
• You have a concluded a hosting agreement or a contract with a research facility in Germany. 

You must apply for the residence permit at your local foreigners authority at least 30 days prior to starting your stay in Germany. The application can also be submitted to the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF).

Further information on career opportunities for international scientists and researchers can be obtained in the " Research " section.

At a glance: Visa for research

From the preparations to the application forms: This step-by-step guide shows you how to get a visa for research.

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Getting a visa, or learning German? Contact points all over the world

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Information on the web

• Federal Foreign Office (FFO) You can find out which visa you need in order to come to Germany with the Visa-Navigator.
• Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) Centre of Excellence for Asylum, Migration and Integration in Germany

Do you have any questions?

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The Ultimate Guide to Earning a PhD in Germany | 2024

A PhD is an advanced academic degree that requires at least three years of full-time study and research beyond a master's degree. A university or college usually awards it and requires an original contribution to knowledge as a dissertation or thesis.

Germany's world-class education system includes outstanding research facilities and academic freedom. It also has a vibrant culture and low living costs, making it an appealing option for international students. Furthermore, the German government provides generous funding for PhD programs in specific fields, making it easier for students to study in Germany. International students can also write their doctoral thesis in English.

How do you select the most suitable PhD program for you?

Step 1 - Start by researching the different universities and programs that offer PhD studies in Germany.

Step 2 - Consider what areas of research interest you and Look for programs with faculty who have expertise in your research area.

Step 3 - Check the admission requirements for each program to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria.

Step 4 - PhD programs in Germany are often fully funded, but it's important to check for available funding opportunities and the requirements for application.

Step 4 - Think about whether you want to live in a big city or a smaller town and whether you are comfortable with the language of instruction.

Step 5 - Different PhD programs have different structures, and it's important to find one that suits your learning style and preferences. Some programs may have more coursework, while others may be more research-oriented.

Types of Doctorates

Doctorates are generally of three types: -

Advertised Projects - These are prevalent in STEM subjects. Advertised projects are research projects that are advertised by universities and students can apply for them. These projects usually have funding attached to them, and students are expected to work on a specific research topic under the supervision of a faculty member.

Self-Proposed Projects - These are more prevalent in arts, humanities, and social sciences. Students are required to propose their own research topic and find a faculty member who is willing to supervise their research. These projects are usually not funded.

Vocational Doctorates - Doctoral degrees in professional fields like business and management are also offered by universities. Usually, professionals looking to advance their careers are the target audience for these doctorates. Vocational doctorates, as opposed to PhD programmes, frequently award specialised degrees like the DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) or DEd (Doctor of Education).

Types of PhD

Individual Doctorate - This type of doctorate is designed for those who wish to pursue a research-focused career in academia or research. It allows students to develop their research skills and access the latest research methods and technologies. It also allows them to gain experience working with leading researchers in their field and form professional networks. Most doctoral students follow it.

Structured Doctorate - These programs allow international students to pursue doctoral studies in a familiar format to their home countries while having access to quality education and resources. Moreover, they enable students to pursue their studies with financial support, making education more accessible.

Course Structure - 

Popular PhD Programs and Universities

How to earn a phd in germany.

Step 1 - Identify the research area that interests you and find potential supervisors at universities or research institutions in Germany.

Step 2 - Once you have identified potential supervisors, you should contact them via email to express your interest in pursuing a PhD with them.

Step 3 - Once a supervisor has expressed interest in working with you, you will need to submit a application to the university or research institution.

Step 4 - Interviews are essential to the application for a PhD program in Germany. Applicants may have to attend an in-person or virtual interview.

Step 5 - Germany offers a special visa for international PhD students. This visa grants special rights and privileges, including working part-time and staying in Germany for up to three years. The application fee for a **PhD visa in Germany is 75 EUR. **

Step 6 - The majority of your time will be spent conducting research and writing your thesis. Your thesis will be reviewed by your supervisor and a committee of experts in your field.

Step 7 - Once your thesis is completed, you will defend it in front of your committee in a public examination and if your thesis is accepted, you will be awarded a PhD and can attend a graduation ceremony.

It's worth noting that the process can vary slightly depending on the university or research institution and the specific program.

Generally speaking, doctorate programs in Germany are free or very low-cost . This is because the government heavily subsidizes universities in Germany and doesn't charge tuition fees. Additional expenses, such as books and materials, may be associated with the program, but typically they are minimal. 

Pre-arrival expenses - Pre-arrival expenses for a doctorate in Germany often include visas, health insurance, and travel costs to and from Germany. In addition to these costs, you may also need to pay tuition fees and living costs, such as rent and food. Depending on the university and the type of program you are enrolled in, you may also have to pay for books, materials, and other associated costs. They vary from 1,828 - 1,937 EUR .

Tuition fees - The tuition fees for doctoral programs in Germany differ depending on the institution and program. International students usually get discounts, and in some cases, the tuition fees are waived entirely. Additionally, you might need to pay a semester fee of 300-3,000 EUR per year . However, if you enroll in a PhD program at a public university , you only need to cover your living expenses in Germany.

Cost of living in Germany - The cost of living in Germany for a doctorate student includes rent, food, health insurance, and transportation. Depending on the student's location and lifestyle, living expenses can range from EUR 700 to EUR 1,500 monthly . 

How to Fund your PhD in Germany?

It is imperative to note that funding for doctoral programs in Germany can be competitive , and students are encouraged to apply to multiple funding sources. Additionally, students should research funding opportunities well before their start date. This will ensure they have enough time to use and increase their chances of receiving funding. 

Some funding sources include -

Scholarships - In addition to doctoral programs, many German universities provide scholarships for doctoral students . These scholarships can be funded by the universities themselves or by external organizations. Some popular scholarships include the -

• DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) scholarship , which covers student expenses ranging from 1,760 EUR to 3,000 EUR depending on the program chosen.
• Another well-known scholarship is the Heinrich Böll Foundation scholarship .

Research Assistant Positions - Doctoral students can work as research assistants at their university or research institution. The university or external organizations may fund these positions. Research assistant positions allow students to gain valuable research experience while earning a salary. 

Fellowships - Doctoral students may also apply for** scholarships from external organizations**. These fellowships may be specific to a particular field of study or open to all disciplines. Fellowship programs like the Alexander von Humboldt and Volkswagen Foundation cover expenses of about 3,170 EUR . 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a PhD in Germany, applicants must have a** Master's degree in a relevant subject**. They must also have** proof of academic excellence and a research proposal outlining** the project they wish to pursue. Additionally, the applicant must secure a supervisor and a university willing to accept them. Further requirements are as follows: 

• A Master's degree from a recognized university
• Minimum grade point average 
• A GRE score of at least 160 is required
• English Proficiency Test scores are TOEFL 88-100 and IELTS 6.5-7.0
• A one-page essay describing your interest in the university and your plans in the field. 
• Two LORs are required. 

Career options post PhD inGermany

Academia - After completing their PhD, many graduates in Germany opt for an academic career, working as professors or researchers at universities, research institutions, and other academic organizations

Average Annual Income - Rs 7.80 Lakhs to 30 Lakhs

Research and Development - PhD holders are also highly sought after in research and development roles in the biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and engineering industries.

Average Annual Income - Rs 6 to 12 Lakhs

Science Communication and Outreach - PhD holders in Germany can also pursue careers in science communication and outreach, working in museums, science centres, or science media organizations. 

Average Annual Income - Rs 4 to 10 LakhS

Post-study Visa Options

Jobseeker Visa - International graduates who have completed their studies in Germany can apply for a job seeker visa, which allows them to stay in the country for up to six months to search for employment. 

Skilled Immigration Visa - International graduates who secure employment in Germany after completing their studies can apply for a skilled immigration visa, which grants them a residence permit for up to four years. 

EU Blue Card - International graduates with a job offer in Germany that meets specific requirements can apply for an EU Blue Card, which provides a fast track to permanent residency there.

Entrepreneur Visa - International graduates who wish to start their own business in Germany can apply for an entrepreneur visa, which allows them to live and work in the country while developing their businesses. 

Researcher Visa - International graduates who wish to pursue research opportunities in Germany can apply for a researcher visa, which allows them to work in research positions for up to five years. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1) can i study my course in english.

Yes. International Degree Courses are taught in English at least in the first semester and cater to students who require improvement in their German language skills before they can pursue their studies entirely in German.

Q.2) What exactly is a 'Studienkolleg'?

'Studienkolleg' is a one-year preparatory course required by individual candidates who wish to study at a German higher education institution. However, more than their school leaving diploma is necessary to apply for a degree program. The course covers full-time education in degree subjects as well as the German language five days a week 

Q.3) What is "Fachhochschulen," and how do they differ from universities?

Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen) are a type of German institution and typically offer degree programs for subjects in professional fields such as Engineering and Applied Science. There are also courses in business administration, but to a lesser extent, studies in the Humanities and Social Sciences are rarely offered. 'Fachhochschulen' does not award PhD titles; you must complete a postgraduate course at a university to obtain a PhD. 

Q.4) Will I be allowed to work while studying in Germany?

An international student who is not an Eu or EAA citizen is allowed to work for up to a maximum of 120 days (or 240 half days) in one year.

Do I need a German bank account?

Yes, you should open a German Bank Account if you plan on staying in Germany. You might need a bank account for your salary.  if you plan on getting a part-time job. 

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Planning your phd, eligibility and application, german or english medium, living as a student, working in germany, get guidance.

With a long tradition of research and ground breaking discoveries, Germany is indeed a land of innovation and progress. Besides giving your ideas a research-based boost, Germany also offers promising career opportunities along with a vibrant social and cultural milieu. So like for many other international students, it can be the right place to pursue a doctoral degree for you too!

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Starting your doctoral studies is a big step in your academic life. Along with identifying your research area you also have to plan where and in which institute you want to pursue your PhD.

Where does research take place in Germany?

Contemplating pursuing a PhD in Germany?  There are a number of universities, research institutions and business houses that will welcome you. So getting an insight into the research landscape of the country is of paramount importance!

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Research is extensively carried out by and through universities, research organisations and the industry. These three are famously known as the three pillars of research in Germany.

You can take a closer look at this on  Research in Germany .

Which universities should I look at for PhD?

There are various kinds of institutions of higher education in Germany. A majority of these belong to either of the following categories:

Universities and Universities of Technology (TU), are research-oriented and offer a wide variety of subjects. These are the only establishments that can award a PhD degree.

In case you are carrying out your PhD at a research organisation/ University of Applied Sciences, it will always be through a partner university/TU that you will get your degree. Therefore it is important that you fulfill the eligibility criteria of the university/TU as well.

Before you finalise a university or a research institution make sure to check out their websites to know what kind of research is already going on there.

Which is the best university in Germany?

There is no “best university”, neither in one subject and certainly not across all subjects.

DAAD India © CHE Ranking

Germany offers a multidimensional ranking, considering various criteria that are important from a student’s perspective. For example, student and staff judgments on quality of teaching, atmosphere at the university, library and other equipment, student numbers, average study duration, number of graduations, third party funding etc. This way you get a detailed picture of the strengths and weaknesses of each university on university-ranking.de . Here you can find your programme by selecting a subject, a university or even a city in Germany!

As a researcher you should also take the research rankings  into consideration. The criteria for such rankings could be research infrastructure, citations, patents, publications and student reviews, to name a few.

How should I plan my doctorate?

If you have set your mind on a PhD in Germany, you can consider two approaches: the traditional approach i.e. individual doctorate and the structured doctoral programmes.

Individual doctoral studies involve identifying a supervisor ( Doktorvater / Doktormutter ) at a German university who is willing to guide your research. This system offers a lot of freedom, and calls for a great deal of personal initiative right from identifying a topic in your research field. This kind of doctorate takes about 3-5 years to complete.

Structured PhD programmes  are internationally oriented, conducted largely in English and are comparable to PhD programmes offered in English-speaking countries. Here supervision is carried out by several university teachers. These programmes lead to a PhD in about three years.

What if I want to do a part of my PhD research in Germany?

The research Grant: Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle which is also famously known as DAAD Sandwich Scholarship lets you complete your PhD in two countries. The first country being your home country where you are registered as a doctoral student and the second country is but naturally Germany.

You are supervised at your home university as well as at the host institute in Germany. Your doctoral degree is awarded by the home institution. This is the well known “sandwich model”.

While generally as a Master degree holder you will have ticked off the first major requirement, it is always a good idea to check if the university’s requirements and your qualifications match. And then you can start with the application procedure.

Am I eligible to apply for a PhD?

In Germany, every university is autonomous. This means that every university/ study programme has its own set of criteria for admitting students. So please check the university website, and specifically the programme you are interested in. Here you will find the exact admission requirements.

However, some generalisation is  possible. As a Master degree holder from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal or Sri Lanka your degree is treated at par with a German Master degree. In some cases, further assessment of eligibility will be required. Do clarify the matter of eligibility with the university or the research organisation of your choice before you send in your application.

Some universities may ask for the proof of your English language proficiency in form of TOEFL or IELTS scores. Some universities may ask for good German language skills depending upon subject of your research. In such cases, your knowledge of German needs to be certified through examinations like the TestDaF  or DSH.

How do I go about applying for a PhD?

• PhD Germany   – A portal where German universities advertise openings for doctoral positions
• An interactive database of  Graduate Schools at German universities
• Research Training Groups  coordinated by the German Research Foundation (DFG)
• International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) Academicians from your country who have collaborations with German academicians or your seniors who might be carrying out research in Germany can be a great source of information too!
• Contact and convince a supervisor. Make sure that you approach a potential supervisor the right way and in good time – a brief and well-structured communication with an overview of your research proposal and relevant information about yourself is more likely to get you the right kind of response than a simple email stating that you are interested in doing a PhD!
• Communicate information about your background, academic performance and academic goals.
• Get a letter of acceptance from your supervisor.
• Identify a programme. Contact the selected university. This will be your most important source of information as far as exact details about eligibility, programme structure, fee, application procedure etc. are concerned.
• Check the application deadline for the programme chosen!
• Application forms and other relevant material can be downloaded from the respective university website.
• Send the application packet.
• Get a confirmation of admission.
• The Admission procedures vary for different universities and for different programmes.
• Check about these with the university of your choice or your supervisor.
• Make sure you have a valid passport!
• Apply for a student visa as soon as you have the admission letter, as the procedure can take 8 to 12 weeks. The German Embassy and the Consulates require proof of funding for the first year of studies. At this stage make sure if you need to get the APS certificate ( www.aps-india.de ) that some universities/host professors may insist upon. To find out where you should apply for a visa, visit the website of the Germany Embassy in your country.
• Apply for a place in a hostel. In some cases the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of the university will help you.
• Arrive in Germany at least a week before your course begins.
• Contact the International Office ( Akademisches Auslandsamt ) of your university for guidance.
• Step 6 Get your residence permit within the first three months of your stay in Germany from the Foreigners’ Registration Office ( Ausländeramt ).

Germany offers education in German as well as in English. Different subject fields can have different language requirements.

Can I do my PhD completely in English medium?

Germany offers close to 200 structured international programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction. These programmes are called International Programmes.

Few of these programmes may require students to have learnt/learn some German language during their PhD.

Must I learn German for my PhD?

As you have already seen, Germany offers numerous PhD programmes with English as the sole or primary medium of instruction and the language for your thesis. English is also accepted as a language of research and education in Germany.

However, some universities/ subject fields may expect you to have German language proficiency for your PhD.

As a student in Germany, your life will not be limited to the university campus. You will surely want to interact with people, travel through the country-side and make the best of your time there. This is where knowledge of German will present a great advantage!

Universities offer beginner and well as advanced level courses where you can learn German. You can also start learning the language while you are still in your home country at a  Goethe-Institut (Max Mueller Bhavan) / Goethe-Zentrum.

Do I require to learn German for DAAD scholarship?

To apply for the DAAD PhD scholarship knowledge of the German language is not mandatory. However, after getting the scholarship you will be expected to complete a DAAD sponsored German course. This will help you with your life Germany.

While in a foreign country being able to manage your finances on your own is very important. You would need to plan your budget by keeping your living expenses, travel costs and tuition fees if any in mind.

What kind of budget should I have in my mind?

Fees: As a PhD scholar in Germany, you are exempted from tuition fees. You will need to pay a semester contribution of around Euro 300, depending upon the university and the services or benefits provided.

Living costs : Apart from the tuition fees, if any,  you will require about EUR 934 per month for subsistence i.e. housing, food, clothing, study material and other expenses such as health insurance and leisure activities. The precise split up for this amount will be updated soon. The amounts can vary from city to city, and of course from lifestyle to lifestyle!

The following table shows the split up at the time of the last budget indicated in 2019.

Source: German Student Union (Deutsches Studentenwerk), 2019 

How can I finance my doctorate?

If you are participating in a structured doctoral programme and doing your doctorate at a graduate school, research centre or research training group, the issue of funding is usually resolved with you either working as a research assistant or receiving a scholarship of about EUR 1,000 per month.

If you are pursuing your doctorate on the basis of the traditional approach, you can apply for a job as a research assistant, if there is vacancy.

Working as a research/doctoral assistant involves collaboration in research/teaching and doing administrative work in addition to completing the dissertation. Non-university research institutions like Fraunhofer Institutes and also some companies offer doctoral candidates employment and / or fund their doctoral dissertations.

The DAAD offers the most extensive scholarship programme.  Also a number of foundations support international candidates approved for the doctoral process. A database of scholarships offered by various German organisations can be found at  www.funding-guide.de .

What is a DAAD PhD scholarship like and how can I apply for it?

If you are a well-motivated researcher with high-calibre this research grant supports your complete doctoral studies in Germany. In general the duration of your PhD should not exceed more than four years.

If you have already registered for PhD in your home country and would like to carry out a part of the research in Germany, you may consider applying for Bi-nationally Supervised Doctoral Degrees / Cotutelle scholarship of the DAAD .

An independent selection committee consisting of specialist scientists reviews your applications, wherein your academic qualification, quality of your research project is checked along with your career prospects, motivation and extra curricular activities including your civic engagement.

If you want to do your full PhD in Germany DAAD PhD Scholarship would be more relevant for you. The application deadline is 20 October every year. This is for scholarship starting from October of the following year.

Here is a step-by-step guideline for your application process:

• Collect general information about the DAAD PhD scholarship.
• Thoroughly check the eligibility criteria.
• Attend information sessions or internet-based seminars (webinars) organised by the DAAD.
• Once you have the letter of acceptance from your supervisor/admission letter from your university, complete the application procedure as specified in the scholarship announcement.
• The application deadline typically falls in the month of October the current year for a PhD beginning in the next year.
• Shortlisted applicants from India will be invited for a personal interview around January-February. For Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal and Sri Lanka the procedure will be announced closer to the date of interviews.
• The final decision will be announced for applicants from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal and Sri Lanka around mid or end of April of the following year.
• Step 4 Once selected, you will have to attend a mandatory German language course, which is a necessary and important part of your scholarship.
• Step 5 After the successful completion of your language course in Germany, your PhD will begin in October.

Living on your own comes with lots of responsibilities, at the same time it can also be very  interesting. It starts with finding a place to stay, learning how to cook, shopping on a budget, making friends and connections. Hope this section helps you with some of your questions.

How do I find accommodation?

Germany offers various types of accommodations:

• Students hall of residence:  Here you can rent rooms provided by  Student Services Organisation ( Studentenwerk ). They are low in cost and preferred by many students. Studentenwerk also provides specially designed Service Kits for international students. Get in touch with Studentenwerk of your city know more.
• Shared Flats ( Wohngemeinschaft – WG) : Shared flat or WG is another affordable accommodation, where you have your own room in a flat and share the kitchen and the bathroom with other flatmates. Living in a shared flat is cheaper as the rent and other expenses  get shared. You can find advertisements for vacancies in WGs online on social media groups or on student-friendly websites.
• Private apartments:  If you prefer living alone, private apartments can be an option for you.  You can find them with the help of Studentenwerk, on boards in the university foyer or even on social media groups and websites for rental real estate.

Make sure to be on the lookout from early on, so that you find the best place at an affordable price.

How do I connect with other students?

Connecting with other students can help you to learn from their experience. It may also help you get acquainted with the lifestyle, once you are in Germany.

• Get in touch with  DAAD Young Ambassadors . They have studied or carried out their research in Germany. Contact them with your questions, they will be happy to guide you!
• You can also find out about various student associations and groups formed by students of your country/ region.
• You can contact students on various socials media platforms as well. There are groups based on nationalities or interests and activities.
• Many universities arrange introductory events. Ask the international office of your university about them. Research institutions too generally run such initiatives.

You can of course work in Germany as long as you follow the regulations, which are not complex and are easy to understand.

Can I work in Germany as a student?

As an international student, you are permitted to work for 120 full days or 240 half days in a year. This will help you in getting a bit of extra pocket-money!OK

Can I work in Germany after my studies?

After completing your degree in Germany, you can choose from amongst a wide range of options:

You can stay on in the country for up to 1.5 years to look for a job that is in keeping with your education. Once you find a job, the residence permit issued to you for the purpose of studying, can be converted into a residence permit for taking gainful employment.

Germany has always had a very strong industry-academia linkage. A lot of scientific research is funded by the industry as well. During your studies you can get the opportunity to do internships with German companies, which can open new vistas for your professional career.

In Germany, a doctorate is a prerequisite for a career in research or higher education. Your options include:

• Teaching/Research Assistantships
• Postdoc Positions
• Research Positions in Industry

The portal  www.academics.com has Germany’s biggest online job market for researchers. There are also scholarships for Postdocs offered by the  Alexander-von-Humboldt Foundation  and other organizations.

Whether you are in India, Nepal or Bhutan, the DAAD is there to help you with your study in Germany plans. Check out how you can reach us!

Individual Appointments

You can connect with the DAAD offices online or offline in Bengaluru ,  Chennai ,  New Delhi  and  Pune .

Information Sessions

The DAAD offers free of cost information session about studying in Germany regularly. Check which dates and topics suit you, register and join!

Click here for dates, timings and registration links: www.daad.in/events .

Writing a Research Proposal

Take a look at the DAAD’s guidelines for writing research proposal

Research Proposal writing: Guidelines 2023

PhD Proposal Writing Workshop

Wondering how to write a PhD proposal? The DAAD offers PhD Proposal Writing Workshop on various topics for aspirants who intend to pursue their doctorate in Germany!

Early Career Research Symposia

The  Early Career Research Symposia offer you a platform to help you propel your research, amplify its reach and get inspired by exchange of ideas.

• Did you find the information about  doctoral studies in Germany useful? Keep the digital  PhD brochure with you, so that it is all handy!
• You will also find the digital brochure Research Proposal Guidelines 2023 useful.
• There is comfort  and certainty in numbers. With the fact sheet Germany India 2022 you can check out actual number of Indian students, what fields they are opting for and which universities they have preferred.

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• Study in Germany /

PhD in Germany

• Updated on  
• Dec 2, 2023

With its unparalleled focus on research, innovation, and development, Germany offers innumerable opportunities to individuals not only in STEM courses , but also in social sciences , humanities , and languages. Further, colleges in Germany are known for their outstanding faculty, internationally recognized curriculum as well as bright career prospects both in enterprises and research organisations. Be it Berlin, Munich, Frankfurt, or Cologne, German cities serve as hubs for manufacturing, international business and finance sectors and housing headquarters of several giant companies. If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in Germany, this blog will help in breaking down its process.

This Blog Includes:

Why study for a phd in germany, types of phd courses in germany, academic session, phd in germany: admission requirements, phd in germany: admission process, writing your research proposal, top universities for phd in germany, cost of studying phd in germany, phd in germany with scholarships, visa process for international students to germany, can i work in germany after my phd, work opportunities, salaries after phd in germany.

The PhD study in Germany epitomizes the country’s mastery of higher education. Let us examine the advantages of studying PhD programs in Germany in further depth:

Free Adult Education: In terms of higher education, Germany has distinguished itself. It offers free education to both domestic and international students. Compared to other international colleges, it only costs a student 310 EUR to cover the semester as well as travel expenses.

Immensely well infrastructure and facilities: After the United Kingdom and the United States, Germany has been ranked as the world’s third finest education destination, and its amenities reflect this. A multitude of non-university research groups contributes to high-quality Ph.D. education at German institutions.

PhD in Germany with Scholarship: Germany values all students’ knowledge, and as a result, they never allow anyone to stop researching due to a lack of funds. There are organizations whose major goal is to offer enough funding to ensure that the informed are loved eternally.

In Germany, there are two broad categories into which PhD courses are divided, namely, individual doctorate programs and structured PhD degrees. Read the following to know more:

Individual Doctorates [3 to 5 Years] Considered the most favourable choice for a PhD in Germany, an individual doctorate also called the traditional PhD is a more direct method of gaining a doctoral qualification. The process of application involves approaching a potential professor or supervisor who is teaching at the university directly, demonstrating how one’s research interests align with the professor, and asking whether he is willing to act as a supervisor. Typically, this process requires a considerable amount of effort and time as it involves finding the right professor, proving that one’s experiences in prior degrees and experiences make him the right candidate, and submission of a research proposal, among other steps. In a traditional PhD, learners have to submit a doctoral thesis focusing more on the research and an oral presentation and examination of their work testing their wider knowledge in the field.

Structured PhD Degrees [3 to 5 Years] An individual opting for a structured PhD in Germany undertakes research work as part of a group of doctoral students who are guided by a team of supervisors. Structured PhD degree admissions and application process is done through online portals of universities such as DAAD. The curriculum may involve interdisciplinary studies along with an emphasis on scientific tools and techniques, and interpersonal skills.   As far as a structured PhD is concerned, students need to complete several mandatory units to achieve 180 to 240 ECTS credits that are essentially required in doctoral studies. They will be assessed on their understanding of course content delivered in seminars and lectures, besides submitting their thesis and completing the oral exams.

If you plan to study in Germany , your academic year will typically comprise 2 semesters – Wintersemester which runs from October 1 to March 31 with Christmas and Easter break; and Sommersemester which runs from April 1 to September 30 with breaks from July to September.

For pursuing a PhD in Germany, the documents to be submitted remain more or less the same throughout the universities in Germany. However, there can be some exceptions. Following are the required things you can’t miss while applying for a PhD:

• Materials to be submitted at the time of application include aptitude scores like GRE or GMAT and  English-language proficiency scores of IELTS or TOEFL , research proposal, SOP , LOR , and CV, amongst others. However, these requirements vary from university to university.
• Sometimes, traditional PhDs may require you to write a thesis in Germany, thus you may need to prove your German-language proficiency through TestDaF or DSH.

A strong research-oriented master’s degree in a relevant field of interest is a major prerequisite while applying for a PhD in Germany. As for the application process is concerned, the individual doctorate route is quite straightforward and requires a direct approach to potential supervisors. On the other hand, for a structured doctorate, one is required to apply through official university portals.

• Once you have supplied the documents highlighted above, the doctoral committee you are applying to will confirm your eligibility to pursue a PhD in Germany.
• A personal interview may also be part of the application process. This is typically conducted by the supervising board for the program. You can refer to our blog on DAAD Scholarshipfunding as well as admission-related information.

A staple part of the application process both for individual and structured PhD in Germany is the submission of a well-curated, coherent and concise research proposal. A research proposal is a document that outlines your research interests, at what points they match with those of your potential supervisors, and what you intend to study and work under the guide. More often than not, applicants do not devote as much time as required to writing a proposal that underlines their achievements as well as what it doesn’t involve. It is important to not sway away from the research topic. Apart from including only the relevant details, it is important to make sure that errors and mistakes have not crept in. Getting it checked by your current professors and mentors is also an option worth considering. 

Germany is home to some of the top institutions in the world, known to offer quality education, scientific discoveries, and technology. Below listed are the top universities to pursue a PhD in Germany:

Note: This list is for indicative purposes and is not exhaustive. While some PhD courses in Germany are available throughout the year, others are offered based on the number of vacancies and the semester chosen. 

Some Other German Universities to Consider

• Heidelberg University
• Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin
• University of Freiburg
• University of Tübingen
• Free University of Berlin

When it comes to studying for a PhD at public universities in Germany, there is no tuition fee charged to international students but you will be required to pay certain administrative costs which range from €150-€200 [roughly 13,100 INR-17,600 INR] (per semester administration fee). However, you will also have to keep the living expenses in mind while applying for a PhD in Germany as the living costs can vary largely from one city to another. While applying for the German student visa, you will be required to provide proof of sufficient funds of €10,236 [roughly 8,94,000 INR] as well. You can also use our exclusive Cost of Living Calculator to estimate your living costs and also check out our blog on the cost of studying in Germany to get an overview of the major expenses you can expect while pursuing higher education in Germany.

Explore the popular German Scholarships for PhD Programs !

To continue your studies in Germany, you will require a student visa. There are two categories of student visas:

• Schengen Visa: Permits you to take a 90-day course in Germany specifically.Visa Fee: 60 EUR 
• National Visa: This allows you to stay in Germany for more than 90 days; you must also obtain a residency permit.
• VISA Fee: 75 EUR
• Working in Germany after completing a PhD is governed by nationality.
• Students from the EU and EEA will not require a work visa. You will have the same career opportunities as German citizens.
• Students from outside the EU and EEA can prolong their stay for up to 18 months to look for jobs connected to their studies.

As an international student, you are permitted to work 120 full days or 240 half days every year while studying for a PhD in Germany. In case you plan to work for longer than this, then you need to seek permission from the Foreigner’s Registration Office and Local Employment Agency. The student is sometimes employed by the university under student assistants or teaching appointments. The salary depends on the hours spent supervising the library, researching literature, and demonstrating or leading tutorials.

Ans. The majority of German institutions do not charge tuition for PhD programmes, and financing is available from numerous government agencies, research groups, and other organisations.

Ans. A PhD professor typically earns a gross monthly salary of between 4,00,000 and 5,300,000 euros (INR 4 lakh and 5.3 lakhs). Do German PhD students receive compensation? Yes, PhD students may be paid in Germany thanks to the PhD Stipend.

Ans. In Germany, getting a PhD is a little more challenging than getting a bachelor’s or master’s degree. This is mostly due to the fact that PhDs are offered in Germany by both accredited businesses operating in the industrial sector and universities.

Thus, building a successful career in Research needs hard work, dedication, and the right guidance. If you are planning to pursue a PhD in Germany or at any other study abroad destination but are not sure how to go about it, then Leverage Edu can guide you through the process. Right from the application to the arrangement of funding, the counsellors will assist at every step. and beyond so that you can take a step towards building a rewarding career.

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Hi, The article is very crisp and informative. Well i would like to introduce myself as a curious learner and aim to pursue Ph.D from Germany for which i am looking for insight and guidance.

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I want to study in germany and bring my wife/husband and children to germany during my studies. is that possible.

The reunification of families of foreign students is usually only considered if the student is in possession of a residence permit, if the marriage existed at the time of said permit being granted and if the duration of the foreigner's stay in the Federal territory is expected to exceed one year. Furthermore, the student has to be able to support himself/herself and his/her family without assistance of public funds.

For families to join students in Germany they would have to apply for a visa for family reunification from the competent Germany mission abroad. Details on the documents to be presented with the visa application are often available on the webpage of the competent German mission abroad or directly from the mission itself.

German Missions abroad

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Checklist for a german national visa - student.

Before filling out the application form and booking an appointment, please prepare 2 identical sets of the following documentation for your visa:

• Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years and valid for at least another year as of date of visa application; passports with observations regarding the front data page cannot be accepted) with at least two empty pages
• Application form & declaration (in accordance with Section 54 of the Residence Act) duly signed
• Declaration for additional contact and legal representation information
• Copy of your passport’s data page (A4 size copy)
• Statement of purpose / Motivation letter
• Certificate issued by the APS (Academic Evaluation Centre) – please consult www.aps-india.de for further information about application process See below for exceptions.
• Proof of admittance to the study course/preparatory college (original and 2 copies) including information on the language of instruction
• Where not confirmed by the German University in the admission notification: Proof of the language skills in the language of instruction for the study course or the preparatory course (without a preparatory language course as a rule at least B2-level in the language of instructions) (original and 2 copies). Only certificates approved by German government will be accepted (such as Goethe Institut / Max Mueller Bhavan, ÖSD, IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge Assessment English). Do NOT provide “exemption letters” or “Language of Instruction Certificates!”
• Certificates of all academic qualifications you have previously obtained (original and 2 copies)
• Curriculum vitae
• Proof of financial means to cover the costs for the time of your studies by one of the following documents: - confirmation of a German / EU scholarship / stipend or - “Verpflichtungserklärung” (formal obligation letter) by sponsor living in Germany or - blocked account for the first year of your stay, amounting to 11,208 euros When applying for visa, you can provide evidence that you are able to meet your living costs by opening a blocked bank account. You have free choice of provider. Information on providers that offer this service worldwide is available on the website of the Federal Foreign Office . PLEASE NOTE: You cannot withdraw more than 934 euros per month from a blocked account. This is applicable from 01.01.2023. However, especially at the beginning of your stay, you might be required to spend more than 934 euros in a month (e.g. to pay a deposit when renting a room or an apartment). It is therefore highly recommended to make sure that you have access to sufficient financial means according to your individual Situation.
• If the university charges tuition fees: Proof of funds equivalent to the tuition fees for the first two semesters and the fee structure (detailed overview of fees). This can be either of the following: - Confirmation of payment issued by the university OR - Education loan OR - Unblocked deposit added to your blocked account (i.e. deposited in addition to the 11,208 euros mentioned above)
• 3 passport pictures according to biometric specifications, not older than 6 months
• Visa fee of 75 € payable in INR only (pls. check our website for payment options and applicable exchange rate)
• Travel health insurance valid on arrival in Germany to the date of enrollment at the University (mentioned in your admission letter) (approx. 3 months). Kindly click here to find out about the travel health insurances accepted. In case you receive a stipend from public funds: please provide ONE of the following: • Proof of a private German health insurance which fulfills the below mentioned requirements and starts at your tentative travel date OR • Proof of a public German health insurance, which consists of a letter from your German healthcare provider, and additionally a travel health insurance from your travel date up to the starting date of the public German health insurance. OR • Proof of a private foreign (including Indian) health insurance mentioning the specific policy you chose which fulfills the below mentioned requirements and starts at your tentative travel date When does a health insurance meet the requirement of being equivalent to a German public health insurance? • No limit to the reimbursement in case of sickness • If the insured person becomes sick, no deductible higher than 300 € per year can be demanded • Preexisting conditions must be included • No clause for termination regarding the insured person reaching a certain age, change of residence permit or loss of residence Permit • The Insurance cover cannot have any time limit (or needs to be automatically renewed)

Students who do not need to present an APS certificate:

• If you obtain a non-German degree
• If you have a foreign degree that is not Indian (e.g. British degree, Turkish degree, etc.)
• If you intend to do a PhD / PostDoc in Germany
• If you have an international Indian degree (e.g. International Baccalaureate)
• If you receive a stipend from public funds ( EU or German funds)

Please prepare two identical application sets with the above-mentioned documents and bring your original certificates along. Please DO NOT staple any documents.

Please note that the German Missions reserve the right to ask for additional documents or the verification of certificates, for which additional fees would be charged.

Submission of the above-mentioned documents does not guarantee that a visa is granted. Submission of incomplete documentation or refusal to appear for a visa interview may result in the rejection of your application.

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Visa Exceptions

Permanent residents.

U.S. permanent residents are not required to apply for student visas.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and AB 540 students

Undocumented students who have received Deferred Action, as well as AB 540–eligible students, do not need to apply for F-1 or J-1 visas.

Employment-based visa holders

Students (and their dependents) already residing in the United States on work-related visas that permit study (such as the H1B, H4) may remain on their current visas. Students must abide by the terms of the work visa to maintain their immigration status.

Other non-immigrant visa holders

Students already residing in the United States on other non-immigrant visas that permit study (such as the L-2, O-1, etc.) may remain on their current visas. A more detailed breakdown of non-immigrant visa categories that are eligible for academic study can be found on the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) website.

Note: B1/B2 tourist visas do not permit study in the United States under any circumstances.

Fulbright Scholars

Students receiving financial support from the Fulbright Commission or other agencies such as AMIDEAST and LASPAU will be issued the DS-2019 by their funding agency. A copy of the scholarship letter must be submitted to USC.

Online program students

Students enrolled in academic programs based entirely online are not eligible to apply for F-1 or J‐1 visas, per Department of Homeland Security regulations.

Studying in the USA: A Guide for International Students

Industry Advice Education

If you’re an international student looking for educational opportunities in the U.S., you’re not alone. Despite the aftereffects of the pandemic, nearly one million students from more than 200 different countries joined American students at U.S.-based institutions in the 2021–2022 school year.

Yet, between student visas, the application process, and cultural differences, some may second guess their resolve to experience American university life. With our comprehensive guide on how to study in the USA, you’ll be well prepared and on your way to international student status.

Applying to an American University

Applying to universities in the U.S. can be daunting, but this process can be challenging for U.S.-based prospective students, as well. Try not to get discouraged. Here are some steps you can take to make your educational journey abroad as seamless as possible.

Start Developing Your Skills

Since U.S. universities can be competitive, it’s important to develop your skill set as you begin this process of studying abroad. In addition to relevant language skills, you should also sharpen your critical thinking, communication (written and verbal), and time and resource management skills.

Research Colleges

Searching for the right program among American colleges is all about “finding the right fit for you.” Depending on your priorities, this might mean a college:

• Offers a degree program you’re interested in
• Accepts international students with a variety of cultural backgrounds to create a global community
• Facilitates sports and other activities that interest you and permit international student participation
• Is located in an ideal climate and living environment

To ensure a good fit and continued success, it’s important to research colleges before deciding which to submit applications to. If you don’t, you run the risk of attending a school that doesn’t align with your personal and professional interests.

Connect with Institutions Before Applying

One of the most resourceful steps you can take in this process (that many applicants overlook) is reaching out to institutions before applying. Most universities have a dedicated admissions office that fields incoming queries from prospective international students. Consider reaching out and asking them about available resources, such as:

• Career counseling
• Scholarship opportunities
• Mental health counseling
• Global student services

Another way to get connected with institutions of interest is to reach out to faculty, alumni, or current students through your personal network or mutual connections. If you don’t have any, don’t fret.

Tomo Yamamoto, associate director of International Enrollment Marketing at Northeastern University, says, “reaching out to a relevant department, or even professors when possible, is a really good place to start.” Generally, universities are vying for great candidates to apply to their programs—particularly international students with interesting backgrounds—so don’t hesitate to reach out and ask for more inside perspectives.

Consider the Requirements

In your research, you’ll come across different requirements for different universities in the application and enrollment process. Many of these requirements apply to all students, international and otherwise. For example, while most universities are now test-optional as a result of the pandemic, some colleges still require scores from a standardized test (e.g., SAT, ACT, or GRE) as part of the application process.

As an international student, you’ll want to be vigilant as you look into these requirements since there will likely be additional prerequisites. For example, the TOEFL or IELTS exams, which are meant to demonstrate proficiency in English, are common application requirements for international students.

Obtain Your Student Visa

Obtaining your student visa can be a long and arduous process, but a good institution will have the resources to guide you. For example, Northeastern provides step-by-step instructions for those applying for an F-1 student visa and J-1 student visa , depending on whether you’re an incoming full-time international student or on an exchange program with a government, organization, or university sponsorship, respectively.

In general, you will need to take the proper steps to enter the U.S. and start your academic career. Look into the first steps of obtaining your student visa; usually, it will be to submit visa-supporting documents, such as Form I-20, Form DS-2019, and a valid passport.

Maintaining Your Status

Once you’ve embarked on student life in the U.S., your journey has only begun. Once abroad, it’s essential to maintain your status of full-time, on-ground enrollment at your institution to ensure your visa remains valid and you can legally remain in the country. Remember, failure to do so can result in serious consequences.

The good news is that most institutions have a dedicated department to ensure their international students meet their visa requirements and maintain valid immigration status. As an international student, it’s important to reach out to your Office of Global Services or equivalent resource to make sure you’re doing everything needed to maintain your status.

The full-time credit conditions vary slightly by institution, but generally, they require a certain amount of class hours or credits for the term, a certain level of performance in those classes, and a certain percentage of in-person course enrollment. For example, according to Northeastern’s Office of Global Services, guidelines on maintaining status for undergraduate students include a minimum of 12 credit hours per term and a maximum of one online course. However, because these requirements are different at each university, it’s critical that you reach out to your dedicated office.

Challenges of Studying in the USA

Moving to and living in a new country can be challenging, especially when studying abroad. However, with proper preparation and the right tools, you can overcome these obstacles.

Cost of Living

What may frighten prospective international students in many cases is the cost of living in the U.S. Cities like New York and San Francisco are infamous for their inflated housing prices and high cost of living. In addition to these high prices, tuition for U.S. universities in these cities also runs high. However, international students who maintain F-1 visa status may be eligible for on-campus work. If you’re interested in this option, it’s highly recommended to continually check on-campus job postings.

As Yamamoto puts it, “The tuition and other related costs are public on the university website. Cost of living can vary depending on each student’s lifestyle and preferences.” However, both of these aspects add up to a total investment in your education abroad. As such, it’s important to research future return-on-investment prospects as a part of your preparation process. Look into potential job opportunities that support work visas, offer a rewarding average salary, and project positive job market predictions to ensure you’ll have ROI-positive options when you graduate.

Applying for a Visa

There are several potential obstacles, based on students’ individual situations, to keep in mind while applying for your student visa. For instance, politics and global current events might impact how long it takes to get a visa. In extreme cases, this can even affect whether you are eligible to receive one. It’s important to apply for the relevant visa in a timely manner to prepare for any unexpected roadblocks.

Another tip is to utilize external resources that could also help. Yamamoto suggests that “international students check the U.S. embassy website to receive more up-to-date information from the U.S. government about student visas and the application process.”

Cultural Differences

Cultural differences can be difficult to adapt to. People might speak differently than you’re used to, come off as rude or loud, or expect different social norms from you. In class, it could be difficult to speak up at the right time or take a little longer than you’d like to make friends.

But as every immigrant, ex-pat, and international student will inevitably tell you, it always gets better. In fact, assimilating into and learning about a new culture is what makes living abroad so exciting and enriching. Celebrating cultural differences is an essential part of studying in a foreign country.

At Northeastern, there are many student organizations where you can connect with peers with similar interests while safely expanding your horizons and easing your transition. Similarly, the university has dedicated support services and events to help international students succeed and feel welcome on campus, including:

• Global Student Success : Provides high-quality English language, academic, and cultural support to international and non-native English-speaking students.
• Global Student Mentor Program : Support incoming international students as they transition to college life at Northeastern and to the culture of the United States, to foster engagement with the Northeastern community, and to improve resource utilization.
• OGS Events : Attend cultural events, workshops, and more, sponsored by the Office of Global Services.

Taking the Leap to Study in the USA

Preparing to study in the USA can be confusing and challenging, but with a proper guide and an institution willing to help, it can be the beginning of one of the most memorable experiences of your life. Northeastern has a dedicated team to ensure their international students are well-prepared, adjusted, and successful.

Learn more about how you can study with us today. Check out our Office of Global Studies and the support we offer for international students.

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