Heidelberg University in Germany offers the prestigious DAAD-GSSP Scholarship 2027, a fully funded opportunity for outstanding international doctoral candidates. This scholarship supports interdisciplinary PhD research in the humanities, law, and social sciences through the Heidelberg Graduate School for the Humanities and Social Sciences (HGGS).

As Germany’s oldest university, founded in 1386, Heidelberg University is globally recognized for academic excellence, research innovation, and a rich intellectual tradition. The university provides a collaborative environment with international research networks, attracting top students worldwide.

Degree Level

PhD / Doctoral Degree

Available Subjects

The DAAD-GSSP Scholarship supports doctoral research in the following fields:

• Humanities

• Social Sciences

• Law

• Theology

• Philosophy

• Modern Languages

• Behavioural and Cultural Studies

• Economics and Social Sciences

Interdisciplinary research is encouraged, particularly projects related to Heidelberg University’s key research priorities:

• Cultural Dynamics in Globalised Worlds

• Self-Regulation and Regulation: Individuals and Societies

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive:

• Monthly stipend: €1,400

• Funding duration: Up to 4 years

• Academic support: Admission and membership at HGGS

• Language support: German language courses at the start of the PhD

• Research opportunities: Access to Heidelberg University’s interdisciplinary environment

• Supervision: Guidance from leading professors

Eligible Nationalities

The scholarship is open to international students of all nationalities. Applicants must be living outside Germany or have spent no more than 12 months in Germany at the time of application.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in humanities, law, or social sciences

• Have completed at least four years of university study

• Possess an above-average academic record

• Present a strong interdisciplinary research proposal

• Demonstrate excellent English proficiency

• Obtain a written supervision agreement from a Heidelberg University professor

• Meet DAAD eligibility requirements for international doctoral funding

Application Procedure

To apply for the DAAD-GSSP Scholarship, follow these steps:

1. Secure a supervisor at Heidelberg University and obtain written confirmation.

2. Prepare application documents, including:

   • Cover page

   • Letter of intention (max. 2 pages)

   • Academic CV

   • Research proposal (max. 5 pages)

   • Research timeline

   • Academic transcripts

   • Two recommendation letters (DAAD format)

   • Supervision agreement

   • Academic career Excel sheet

3. Combine all documents into a single PDF file.

4. Submit the application via email to the official HGGS contact addresses.

5. Online interview: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview.

Important Note: Application deadlines vary each year. Check the official Heidelberg University and HGGS websites regularly for updated deadlines and guidelines.

FAQs

1. Is the DAAD-GSSP Scholarship fully funded?
Yes, it covers a monthly stipend of €1,400 for up to four years.

2. Who can apply?
International students with a Master’s degree in humanities, law, or social sciences are eligible.

3. Can interdisciplinary research be funded?
Yes, interdisciplinary proposals aligned with the university’s research priorities are strongly encouraged.

4. Is knowledge of German required?
No prior German is required, but language courses are offered at the start of the PhD.

5. How do I apply?
Applicants must secure a supervisor at Heidelberg University and submit a complete PDF application via email to HGGS.