PhD
The German doctorate enjoys an outstanding reputation. Germany’s research institutions, universities and companies welcome international researchers and offer excellent opportunities for doctoral students. Structured PhD programmes, for example, often have a strong international orientation with English as the team language.
Roughly 29,000 graduate students complete a doctorate in Germany every year – far more than in any other member state of the European Union. Every year, over 5,500 international scholars are awarded a doctoral degree by a German university.
Good reasons
There are many good reasons for coming to Germany. It is a leading research nation – especially when it comes to the disciplines of the future – and its universities and research institutions are among the best in the world. But that is not all …
Two ways to get your PhD
Germany offers two ways to do your PhD. Before you start your search for a PhD place you should choose between "individual doctorate" and "structured PhD programmes".
Find your PhD position
Germany offers a wide range of different doctoral opportunities. Search now and find your PhD place in Germany
Funding programmes
PhD students in Germany usually work as a research associate (paid PhD position) at a higher education institution or receive a scholarship.
Funding organisations
Research funding in Germany is provided by government bodies, various organisations and foundations, including many of the large non-university research institutions, and industry.
Funding databases
Search for a wide range of funding programmes for international PhD students, postdocs and senior researchers.
Job portals
We help you navigate through the large number of job portals that specialise in openings for academics and scientists. These are some of the sites that may get you started.
