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Supervision

Before you can officially apply for admission to doctoral studies, you must first find a supervisor for your doctoral project. In order to submit the application for admission, you must provide proof that a professor has agreed to be your supervisor.

We have compiled some information for you here, which will help you to find a supervisor.

Preparation

• As a first step, you should have some definite ideas about your doctoral research project, before looking into the matter of finding a suitable supervisor. Write a first project proposal.
• Collect detailed information on the individual faculties, institutes, departments, and professors at HU to find out which professor would be the most appropriate supervisor in your case. Someone whose field of research covers the same or similar topics to your own would be ideal.

How do I contact potential supervisors?

• Once you have found the ideal potential supervisor for your doctoral project, you can contact him or her directly via email, enclosing a letter of motivation, your curriculum vitae, list of publications and an outline of your proposed project or statement of purpose.
• The more precisely you set out your reasons for believing you can accomplish your project optimally with this particular host at HU and how you intend to finance your stay, the greater your chances of succeeding.
• If you have the opportunity, you can also approach potential supervisors in person, e.g. at a meeting or conference.

Who can I contact if I need help?

In addition, we also recommend contacting your former professors for discipline-specific advice. Talking to former fellow students who are now doing their doctorate can also be helpful.

Who can be selected as a supervisor?

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Finding a Supervisor

Pursuing a doctoral program in Germany means undertaking independent research work with the support of a professor. Usually a doctoral program takes three to five years to complete. The research results are presented by the student in the form of a written thesis, called a dissertation. In addition to the written thesis, the award of a doctorate requires an oral examination (rigorosum or disputation). When pursuing your doctoral program, you usually focus on your own scientific work rather than attending any courses.

In Germany it is an important part of doing a PhD to find your supervisor yourself. However, before sending out an email to lots of professors, there are a few questions to ask and steps to take.

First Steps

First, check whether any of the  faculties cover your field of research. If this is the case, you can look at the respective faculty's website in more detail and look through the departments and work groups that relate to your field of expertise. Please also check what information the faculty offers for PhD candidates.

Requirements

For you to be admitted to a PhD program, you must hold a scientific degree (e.g., Master's, Magister, State Examination). Foreign degrees might be accepted as entrance qualification for doctoral programs; the decision is taken by the PhD Admissions Board of the faculty in charge. Please be aware that a PhD thesis written in English or other languages than German may not be possible with some professors.

Before getting in touch with a professor, you should check whether they are a allowed to take on PhD students. Most professors are but there are some exceptions. A good indication is to check whether any PhD students – former or present – are listed on the website. Next, you should read some of their publications to find out if they really are a fit for the research you want to do for your PhD. If all of this is the case, you can proceed with the next step.

Contacting a Professor

Once you have decided on one prospective supervisor, you can contact them directly. Please include a CV (one, max. two pages, certificates, awards etc.) as well as a motivational letter/exposé in which you outline your research aims or planned project, motivation, as well as your academic background. It is also good to include how your research relates to theirs. Please be aware that professors can receive a number of applications and that it is, therefore, important for you to pick the person who is academically most suited to be your supervisor, and to write a convincing application.

PhD Admissions Board

A PhD Admissions Board is responsible for a number of formal affairs with regard to the acceptance of PhD candidates, and the admission to and awarding of doctoral degrees etc. It is, therefore, paramount to have the PhD Admissions Board of your respective faculty check whether you are eligible to do a doctorate in your field of choice, and to admit you officially to your PhD studies.

Once you have a place as a PhD student at the University of Siegen and want to start planning your stay in Siegen, you can get in touch with the Welcome Center for International Researchers, who will help you with your preparations and will support you throughout your stay. You can also find further information on the website.

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How to Find Your PhD Position in Germany

Are you looking for a doctoral position in Germany? In the DAAD databases, you can find open PhD positions in all fields and all over Germany. When you have found an offer that matches your interests you can apply online at the offering university.

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Finding a Supervisor & Admission

The first and most important step to pursue a PhD at the University of Regensburg is to find a supervisor. Please note that you must find your supervisor on your own . In Germany, the supervisor is usually referred to as “Doktormutter" or "Doktorvater”.

You can find a supervisor by using several sources of information. For example, use the overview of all faculties. Please contact the researcher directly to find out whether they are willing to supervise you. You should be well prepared for email contact and conversations with your potential supervisor. Think about which questions you would like to ask in terms of content and organization.

⇒ Overview of UR Faculties

Application

If you have found a contact person who is the ideal supervisor for you, please contact them directly.

As a general rule (please note that these documents can of course vary), you apply with the following documents:

•  Cover letter or letter of motivation
•  Brief description of your planned research project
•  Documentation of your academic qualification
•  Curriculum Vitae

Formal requirements

Before you begin your doctorate, you should get acquainted with the doctoral regulations (Promotionsordnung) of your faculty. In the Promotionsordnung, you will find information on the requirements for a doctorate, formalities and disputations.

In order to be admitted to a doctorate at the University of Regensburg, you usually need a Master's degree. The faculty will review your certificates and determine whether your degree is comparable to a degree in Germany, i.e. whether a direct acceptance as a doctoral student is possible or whether it will be necessary to attend additional courses or pass a doctoral aptitude test. Please note that the final grade of your Master's degree must also correspond to the admission for doctoral studies and must be converted to the German grading system in order to determine equivalence.

You may also have to prove that you have German language skills, depending on the specific regulations of your individual doctoral project.

Acceptance as doctoral candidate

Your doctorate begins when you have been officially accepted as a doctoral candidate by the respective faculty. In order to be accepted, you must meet the respective requirements for a doctorate and receive the confirmation of supervision from your doctoral supervisor.

As a general rule, the following is required for acceptance as a doctoral candidate by the faculty.

♦ Secondary school diploma

♦ Higher education diplomas and certificates

♦ Transcript of Records of the certificates

• All certificates must be presented in their original version and as officially certified copies.
• All certificates and transcripts must be submitted as officially certified translations in English or German.

♦ Curriculum vitae

♦ Exposé (indication of the provisional doctoral topic with exposé)

♦ Confirmation from a supervisor

♦ Additional seminars or lectures may be required.

♦ If applicable, proof of German language skills must be provided.

Please inform yourself in detail about the conditions of acceptance at the faculty where you would like to do your doctorate, since it can vary.

Language skills

You must clarify in advance with your supervisor in which language the doctoral thesis can be written.

The following applies to enrollment as a student at the Registrar's Office:

If your intention is to write the doctoral thesis in German and you want to enroll as a student at the Registrar's Office, then you must have sufficient language skills. You can obtain this by taking a German test called the "DSH 2 Prüfung". The German test (DSH-Prüfung) normally takes place at the UR at the end of March or at the end of September.

NOTE: In case your doctoral thesis can be written in English, you are not required to have any German skills. The decision must be expressly mentioned in either the confirmation of doctoral for submission to the Registrar's Office of the respective faculty or in your letter of acceptance.

Basic or intermediary knowledge of the German language is extremely helpful for everyday life.

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Supervision

Every doctoral project requires academic supervision, which is provided by either a doctoral supervisor or a supervisory team. By agreeing to supervise a doctoral candidate, the supervisor undertakes to provide him or her with methodical and technical advice and support. The same support is provided by a supervisory team, which also serves as the point of contact for other aspects of doctoral supervision (for example the choice of qualification options).

Who may supervise a doctoral project?

The faculties and departments define in their doctoral regulations which persons are entitled to supervise doctoral candidates. As a general rule, professors, junior professors, Privatdozenten, Hochschuldozenten and Universitätsdozenten are available to act as supervisors. In a cooperative doctoral process, professors at universities of applied sciences who hold a doctorate may also be involved in the supervision of a dissertation.

Search for a supervisor

It is important that your supervisor is a specialist in the area in which you intend to write your dissertation. As well as subject specialism, the importance of a good interpersonal relationship to a successful doctoral degree should also not be underestimated.

The following resources may be helpful in the search for a supervisor:

• Websites of faculties / departments and also of individual professors
• Universities' own web pages on the subject of doctoral degrees
• Relevant academic publications and their authors
• Ongoing or completed research projects and participating researchers
• Key research areas of graduate schools and Research Training Groups
• Networks and forums for doctoral candidates
• Announcements in national newspapers and journals.

Finding a suitable supervisor

You can usually find a suitable supervisor by consulting several sources of information. In most cases you will find several researchers who might be potential supervisors for your doctoral project. It is therefore necessary to speak to potential supervisors personally to find out who is willing to supervise you and who you would like to be your supervisor. You can make contact with them by first contacting the dean's office of the faculty or department or by contacting the professor directly.

Whichever option you choose, you should be very well prepared for a meeting with a potential supervisor. As well as asking questions about the content of your project, it is advisable to find out about the organisational aspect of supervision, for example the scope and regularity of meetings with your supervisor. The scope and regularity of meetings with supervisors and other formalities should be defined in a supervision agreement, which in many cases is required by the doctoral regulations.

Supervision by a professor at a university of applied sciences

In connection with the admission of graduates of universities of applied sciences (Fachhochschulen) to doctoral programmes, universities and institutions of equivalent status are increasingly enabling professors of Fachhochschulen to be actively involved in the doctoral process. They can co-supervise a doctoral candidate and also be appointed as reviewers. This form of participation has come to be termed a 'cooperative doctoral process'.

Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany

Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany?

In order to be successful with your application for research funding/PhD studies, you will need proof of contact with a German professor. If you are not yet in touch with a German research partner/supervisor, you might find it difficult to get in touch. Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany, in total Germany has more than three hundred institutions of higher education and, in addition, hundreds of research institutes. So how do you find the proverbial needle in the haystack? This leaflet is meant to give you some guidelines. However, make sure you also study carefully the general information on doctoral studies in Germany on the DAAD website: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/

• International Postgraduate Programmes

If you are a potential PhD candidate or recent postdoc in Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany, you may first want to find out if you can do your research within the framework of an International Postgraduate Programme (IPP) . These programmes are university graduate training programmes established at a centre of academic excellence in a specific field. This ensures that your course meets the highest academic standards. The students work on their thesis within the framework of a coherent and often interdisciplinary research programme; they participate in an accompanying study programme organised by the faculty members and to some extent by the students themselves. In Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany, all IPP participants have regular contact with the university teachers responsible for their programme and are given the opportunity to engage in collaborative intensive research. Cross-faculty courses and colloquia offer forums for interdisciplinary dialogue. German and international doctoral candidates participating in the IPP jointly attend courses from the accompanying curriculum. Teaching includes visiting lectures given by foreign academics and scientists. The doctoral thesis may be written in English and the viva is also held in English.

A list of recommended IPPs can be found on the DAAD website:  www.daad.de/ipp/en .

More information on structured doctoral programmes offered by research institutions is available at: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/ Make sure you visit these sites and study the information given thoroughly!

• Individual Research Projects

If you do not intend to follow a structured doctoral programme in Finding A PhD Research Partner in Germany, but to take a German doctorate in the traditional “Master-Apprentice Model”, you will need to find a German professor to take you on as his/her research student. While finding a PhD supervisor or research partner in Germany can sometimes be tricky, there are several ways of identifying a potential partner which you could explore. You will need to invest a little time, but your efforts are likely to be worthwhile. Please consider the following options:

➢ Do you know any lecturers or colleagues within your field, who are already in touch with German academics or who will attend an international conference soon? If so, ask them to help you establish contact. A brief introduction or a short letter of recommendation can often go a long way towards facilitating communication.

➢ Visit the website: https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/ , which is a database of international degree programmes offered by German universities. Use this database to identify (Bachelor, Master) courses closely related to your area of research. Then approach the programme coordinators via email with a short research proposal and ask them whether they can suggest a potential PhD supervisor you could contact.

➢ To find university departments in your area of interest, go to the website: http://www.hochschulkompass.de/en/study-in-germany.html . This is the website of the German Rectors’ Conference. In the section “Doctorates” you can find a search engine, where you can key in your area of research to obtain a list of the existing programmes. Through links you can then go to the websites of the universities. Many universities and departments have bilingual web sites, but in cases some command of German may be required. You should then look for a lecturer or a professor who does research in an area close to yours. If you have found somebody whose work looks interesting to you, feel free to contact him/her by e-mail. Most successful research co-operations begin with a personal contact!

➢ A comprehensive search of the German research landscape can also be conducted with a new online database called Research Explorer, available via website

( https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/ ).

This very useful resource allows you to identify university as well as non-university research institutes working in your area of interest.

➢ If you feel you have exhausted your own possibilities, but you have still not found a suitable supervisor, please contact your nearest DAAD office or the nearest DAAD lecturer of German language and literature for further help.

• Approaching German professors via e-mail

While there are no hard and fast rules as to how to write a successful email, here are some guidelines you may find useful when first making contact with a German professor.

➢ Make sure your e-mail does not contain any grammatical or typing mistakes. This includes minor errors such as capital letters or punctuation. Keep in mind that you want to convince the German professor that you are capable of producing academic work of the highest standard.

➢ Avoid impersonal letters (“Dear Sir/Madam”). Research has shown that you are more likely to receive a reply if your mail is geared towards a specific person. Never ever send an e-mail to more than one person!

➢ Keep in mind that being informal and using casual phrases are mostly not appreciated in first contacts.

➢ Explain to the professor your reason for contacting him/her. The reason should be matching research areas (name them!) and not a general phrase like “I know you are a renowned professor”.

➢ Attach a concise description of the kind of research you would like to undertake (leaflet: “How to write a research proposal”), but also show that you are open to discuss your project and to make alterations. You may also want to attach a brief cv so that the professor can get a more comprehensive picture of the person you are (your academic and professional background, age, skills etc.)

➢ Do not approach the professor for funding in your first mail. At this stage you only want to establish contact and to find out whether there is general interest in your topic.

➢ Do not feel discouraged if some of your emails remain unanswered. Please understand that many professors are extremely busy and will only get back to you if they are seriously interested in your research proposal and can offer adequate supervision.

References & Useful Links:

www.daad.de

www.daad.de/ipp/en

https://www.daad.de/deutschland/studienangebote/international-programs/en/

http://www.hochschulkompass.de/en/study-in-germany.html

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PhD in Germany [Complete Guide]

Few achievements in life match the feeling of being awarded a PhD. Doctorates represent the pinnacle of academic achievement, and require years of diligent study.

The rewards, however, are great. Not only does a Ph.D. give you bragging rights at cocktail parties, but it also provides excellent job prospects and earning potential. But what if you want to study for a PhD outside of your home country?

Germany is an increasingly popular destination for international students, offering high-quality education and research facilities at a fraction of the cost of studying in the US or UK. Germany offers and takes research extremely seriously, and is one of the world's most popular places to study for a PhD or higher education.

But what kinds of PhDs are available, how much do they cost, and how do students apply? Let's find out.

General information

Germany is widely seen as one of the best places to apply for a PhD worldwide

The country offers excellent education and research facilities as well as competitive funding opportunities for doctoral students.

There are different types of Ph.D. programs in Germany. That's no surprise, as   Germany invented the elite academic qualification in the 19th century . German PhDs cover subjects as diverse as history, linguistics, and philosophy, or chemistry, molecular biology, earth sciences, and computer science. Most lower level degree subjects can be extended to PhD level if the student desires.

How can I get a PhD in Germany?

There are   two main ways   to complete a PhD in Germany. Most commonly,   students form a working relationship with a specific   Doktorvater   or   Doktormutter   (or "supervisor" in English). They then work on a tightly focused research task for the duration of their studies.   The fruits of their university research are then presented as a "Doctorate" ( Doktorarbeit ), which tends to resemble a medium-length book.

In some cases,   "Structured" PHDs are available . These resemble taught Masters degrees, but still have a strong research element. They may also focus on work placements.

How long does it take to get a PhD in Germany?

Generally speaking,   a standard research-oriented German doctorate can be obtained within 4-6 years . This depends on the speed of work and personal factors such as having children.   Structured doctorates can often be completed in just 3 years , but this varies from course to course.

International PhD Programs

Germany welcomes international students to study at PhD level

Many programs offer specialist assistance and course structures for overseas students.

DAAD   (the German Academic Exchange Service) brings together   grants for international students at leading German universities . It's the best place to start   hunting for scholarships to help fund your studies .

Is a PhD in Germany free?

PhDs at German universities are usually available free of charge for international students , but   living costs   aren't covered. However, scholarships can cover (most) living costs.   DAAD grants will average around €1,200 per month , and additional funding sources may be available.

A group of prominent universities has also created a funding scheme   called   StipendumPlus , which also distributes grants. Between them, finding financial help should be possible.

Do PhD students get paid in Germany?

It's not routine for international students to be paid for their work , but it is definitely possible to find paid research posts. Enquire with your supervisor, and you may find that paid jobs are available to supplement your income.

How to find your PhD Position

Finding the right PhD is essential

It's   a huge investment of both finances and time , and could change the course of your life. So here are some useful tips to remember.

Take time to find a   supervisor   you want to work with.   Balance their academic record with the resources of the university, and have a chat with them   if possible. You need to be able to work with them on a daily basis.

• Searching for doctorate programs has been made much easier by databases like   DAAD . Use them to assess every option.
• Consult   university rankings   to avoid poor-quality teaching.
• Check for services like career advice and travel grants. As a PhD researcher, you may need to travel worldwide, and this can be expensive.
• Ask about work opportunities as well. Research posts at your university are the best way to add some extra income, while gaining relevant experience.

Requirements and Application

Before you can commence doctorate studies in Germany, you'll need to complete an application process

If you want to study a traditional PhD,   applications must be carried out via your prospective supervisor .

When   you contact   the supervisor   and they   agree to work with you, they will forward your request to the relevant faculty . The department will then request:

• A statement from your supervisor
• Proof of your academic qualification 
• 1-2 academic references
• Proof of   language proficiency
• A valid   student visa   and   health insurance

Structured PhDs don't require students to go through a supervisor.   In those cases, applications are made via the faculty, and will usually be carried out via online portals.

To study a PhD, requirements generally demand a Masters degree   (8 semesters of university education), as well as English and German proficiency to a high level.

IELTS English certificates , and   TestDaf German courses   are advisable for all doctoral candidates, even if they have studied those languages in the past.

PhDs are a huge investment of both finances and time, so it's important to do your research before choosing a supervisor and program. Make sure to consult university rankings and databases like DAAD when making your decision. Once you've been accepted into a program, make sure to apply for scholarships and grants to help cover your living costs.

Finally, remember to ask about work opportunities as well – research posts are a great way to gain relevant experience and supplement your income.

Find Your Perfect Match 

Search by city, major, or field of study and find your dream study program in Germany.

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Information for Supervisors

From now on you will find important information for doctoral supervisors in our university-wide TUM-GS wiki . You can log in with your TUM ID. There you will find an overview of the administrative steps to welcome new doctoral candidates to your chair/professorship.

Further information resources and suggestions for a successful cooperation with your doctoral candidates will be published here soon.

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How to Apply for a PhD in Germany: Programs, Funding, & FAQs

If you’re considering advancing your academic journey with a PhD and have a passion for conducting research in your field, Germany could be an excellent destination for you. With its top-tier universities, exciting research opportunities, financial support, and diverse culture, Germany stands out as an excellent choice for PhD studies.

These are the main steps to doing a PhD in Germany:

Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor

• Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs
• Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application

Apply for Doctoral Studies

Secure funding, get a student visa or resident permit, arrive in germany and begin your phd program, why pursue a phd in germany.

Here are some compelling reasons to pursue a PhD in Germany:

• Top universities. Germany boasts four universities ranked in the top 100 globally, offering access to world-class education and research facilities.
• International student community. Germany welcomes a diverse and thriving international student community, with over 458,210 international students studying across the country.
• Abundant research institutions. Germany’s 1,000+ publicly funded research institutions, spanning universities, applied sciences, research institutes, businesses, and government bodies, offer countless opportunities for collaboration and networking.
• Investment in research and development. Germany’s commitment to research and development is evident through its increasing expenditure, which reached a record high of 112.6 billion euros in 2021.
• Strong economy. Germany is known for its robust and stable economy, offering potential career opportunities in academia, industry, and research sectors after completing your PhD.

How to Apply for a PhD in Germany

Below, you will find all the steps you need to take, from discovering your perfect program to submitting your application and commencing your PhD adventure in Germany.

To start your PhD in Germany, define your research focus by considering your interests and academic background. Explore resources, attend conferences, and connect with professors. Use online sources, engage with academic communities, and seek advice from current PhD students for insights into the research scene.

If you’re already clear about your research direction, it’s time to search for suitable programs. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provides a comprehensive database of current opportunities, which you can explore at the DAAD PhD Database . Additionally, consider researching universities in Germany individually to understand what each institution offers in terms of research and programs.

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You will also have to find a supervisor. One way to do so is by visiting university websites to find faculty directories with profiles of professors and their research interests. Contact professors whose work aligns with your research interests, express your interest and inquire about supervision opportunities.

> You can search PhD programs using the GERiT database , which features over 31,000 research institutions.

Types of PhD Programs in Germany

Before you start searching for a PhD program, it’s essential to understand that in Germany, there are two different paths you can take when pursuing a PhD, each with its own set of advantages and opportunities.

Individual PhD Programs

An individual doctorate program is considered the more common and traditional PhD route in Germany. It is a flexible and self-directed path to earning a doctoral degree, particularly in fields like humanities and social sciences. You take the initiative to find a supervisor (called “Doktorvater” or “Doktormutter”) for your research project and often suggest your research topic.

There’s no fixed curriculum, giving you the freedom to set your research timeline and choose coursework. This approach requires self-discipline and active networking, including participation in doctoral candidate meetings and research events.

Structured PhD Programs

Structured PhD programs in Germany offer a clear path to a PhD degree, typically lasting three to five years. Unlike individual doctorate studies, they include a curriculum, research proposal submission that has to fit an existing program, and a set timeline for coursework and research.

Candidates benefit from advisor supervision and are encouraged to collaborate across disciplines, making structured programs ideal if you’re seeking a guided and comprehensive doctoral experience.

Ensure You Meet All Requirements & Prepare the Application

The requirements and application documents for a PhD in Germany can vary depending on your chosen institution and research area. However, as a general guideline, you should prepare the following:

• Academic degree recognized in Germany. Typically, you’ll need a master’s degree or a German state examination (Staatsexamen) to qualify for a PhD program.
• Copy of master’s thesis. Provide a copy of your master’s thesis, showcasing your research skills and the depth of your academic work.
• Research proposal. Craft a clear and comprehensive research proposal outlining your intended research topic, objectives, methodology, and significance.
• Statement of purpose. Write a statement of purpose explaining why you wish to pursue a PhD in your chosen field, your academic and career goals, and how this program aligns with your aspirations.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV). Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, relevant coursework, publications, and any other qualifications.
• Proof of language proficiency. Depending on the language of instruction (usually German or English), you may have to provide proof of language proficiency. You can do this with certificates like TestDaF, DSH, TOEFL, IELTS, or proof of previous studies in the language.
• Academic references. You may need to provide contact information or recommendation letters from professors or academic advisors confirming your academic abilities and research potential.
• Predoctoral examination. Some programs may require you to pass a predoctoral examination as part of the application process.

Once you’ve found a suitable PhD program and a mentor, and your academic qualifications are recognized in Germany, you can start your application. Depending on the university or research institute, you can apply online or by post, so it’s essential to check their specific requirements. Keep in mind that admission committees are selective and may conduct interviews to admit the best candidates.

Securing funding is a crucial step when preparing for a PhD in Germany. To meet visa requirements and stay in the country, you must demonstrate access to a minimum of €934 per month, totaling €11,208 annually. This proof can be provided through an admission agreement or relevant contract, or you can open a blocked account with individual funds.

There are various ways to financially support yourself while pursuing a PhD in Germany:

• PhD scholarships. DAAD offers the highest number of doctoral scholarships. PhD students get an average monthly stipend of €1,139.
• Paid PhD positions. Many universities and research institutions offer paid PhD positions in Germany. You will have a contract and work on specific research projects while receiving a salary.
• Research associate positions. You can also work as a research associate in a university, research institution, or company and receive a salary as compensation.
• Part-time jobs. Some PhD students/researchers work part-time jobs that are not related to their studies to secure additional income.

> Read more about the costs associated with studying in Germany.

> Explore scholarship opportunities.

Once your acceptance into the PhD program is confirmed by the university or institution, you can begin the process of applying for a student visa or residence permit. The PhD visa or permit requirements for Germany can vary depending on your nationality and individual circumstances:

Visa Requirements

Citizens of the EU, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Switzerland do not need any special permit or visa to pursue a PhD in Germany. They can research and work with just a valid passport or ID card.

For international researchers who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, a visa will be required to work as a researcher in Germany.

The type of visa you need depends on your specific situation:

• Study visa. If you’re pursuing a full-time doctoral program, you may apply for a student visa.
• Research visa. If your focus is on research and you have a formal affiliation with a research institution in Germany, you can apply for a research visa.
• EU Blue Card. If your PhD offer includes a gross annual salary of at least €45,300 (or €41,041.80 in certain professions), you may be eligible for an EU Blue Card, which is a special residence title for international academics.

Residence Permit Requirements

Once you arrive in Germany, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit based on the visa you have:

• Study permit. If you’re accepted into a PhD program at a German university, you can get a study-based residence permit for up to two years, extendable.
• Research permit. If you’re a researcher with the right qualifications for doctoral programs, you can get a research permit for Germany. This requires a contract with a research institution for your project.
• EU Blue Card. You may be eligible for the EU Blue Card, which is for foreign academics and qualified workers in Germany. To get it through a PhD offer, your salary should be at least €45,300 per year, or €41,041.80 for certain bottleneck professions .

*Note that nationals of certain countries , including the United States, Australia, Israel, Japan, and Korea, who are not required to obtain a visa, must still apply for a residence permit.

> For more specific information tailored to your situation, we recommend contacting the German embassy or consulate in your home country. You can also use this visa navigator.

Arriving in Germany and commencing your PhD program is an exciting step, but there are certain formalities you need to take care of. The international office at the university or a representative can guide you, however here are the main things to take care of once you’re in the country:

Register Your Residence

Shortly after your arrival, you must register your residence at the local registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt or Bürgeramt). This is mandatory, and you typically have a window of two weeks to complete this process.

Obtain Health Insurance

Everyone in Germany, including international PhD students, is obligated by law to have health insurance coverage . The type of health insurance you are eligible for depends on the source of your funding:

• Doctoral candidates with an employment contract are typically insured automatically with a state-regulated health insurance provider (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung -GKV)
• Doctoral candidates without an employment contract (with a fellowship or private funding) may choose between:
• Voluntary health insurance coverage with a state-regulated provider.
• Coverage with a private health insurance company.

Some exceptions allow you to retain your insurance from your home country, such as students from a European Union (EU) country or other countries with social security agreements with Germany.

Open a Bank Account

It’s advisable to open a German bank account as soon as possible. Many financial transactions in Germany, including receiving your stipend or salary, are typically done through a German bank account.

Enrollment at University

If your PhD program requires enrollment at a university, you’ll need to complete this step. Submit the necessary documents to the university’s enrollment office, which may include your admission letter, passport, proof of health insurance, and proof of financial means.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

There’s a lot to think about when you’re considering pursuing a PhD, especially if it’s in a foreign country. We’re sure you’ve got more questions, and we’re here to help.

What Is the Duration of a PhD Program in Germany?

In general, a PhD program in Germany typically lasts between three to six years.

The duration of a PhD program in Germany can vary depending on several factors, including the university, the subject area, and individual progress.

Are PhD Programs in Germany Tuition-Free?

Most PhD programs in Germany are tuition-free, at least for the first six semesters. However, if you are enrolled at a university, you will need to cover a semester fee. This can vary depending on the university but usually falls within the range of €100 to €350.

Is Knowing German Mandatory to Pursue a PhD in Germany?

Knowing German is not always mandatory to pursue a PhD in Germany. Many German universities offer PhD programs in English, especially in fields like science, engineering, and the humanities. In such programs, you can write your thesis and communicate with professors and peers in English.

However, language requirements differ by university and department. If your program is in German, you might need to prove your proficiency. Knowing German can also be helpful for daily life and integration if you’re living in Germany.

Will I Get a PhD Salary in Germany?

PhD candidates in Germany, whether affiliated with universities, research institutions, or companies collaborating with them, typically receive financial support in the form of a salary or grant.

The majority of doctoral positions are structured under the TV-L (Tarifvertrag im Öffentlichen Dienst) salary scale, often falling within the TV-L 13 category, with a salary range spanning from €4,188 (Tier 1) to €6,037 (Tier 6).

Salaries are typically determined based on a wage agreement that specifies the contract tier (Stufe) and working hours (percentage-based). Many entry-level PhD students start with tier 1 contracts that are not full-time. For example, if your contract places you in Pay Group E-13 Tier 1 of the TV-L and you work at 75% capacity, your monthly gross salary will be €3,141.

Can I Work While Pursuing a PhD in Germany?

It’s generally allowed for PhD students in Germany to have part-time jobs to cover living expenses. However, the rules and expectations can vary depending on your supervisor, field of study, and specific circumstances.

While part-time work is an option, keep in mind that pursuing a PhD can be quite demanding, often requiring long hours of research and study. It’s essential to find the right balance between work and your academic commitments. Additionally, make sure to be aware of any legal and contractual obligations related to your employment while studying for your PhD.

What Is the Process for Defending a PhD Thesis in Germany?

In Germany, defending your PhD thesis involves several steps. You start by submitting your thesis and necessary documents, making sure they meet all the formal requirements. A commission is formed, and you may have the opportunity to suggest reviewers.

Then, you will have to prepare and undergo an oral defense, which can be either public or private and typically lasts between 30 minutes to 2 hours. During this, you present your research and discuss it with the committee.

The outcome of this discussion determines your final grade, which you receive after the defense. If everything goes well, you’re granted the Ph.D. title and have about two years to publish your dissertation.

What Are the Career Prospects After Completing a PhD in Germany?

After completing a PhD in Germany, career prospects are promising. Graduates often find opportunities in academia as professors or researchers or in various industries, including technology, healthcare, and finance. Germany’s strong economy and research-oriented environment make it an attractive place for career development.

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