Humboldt Research Fellowship 2025-26 in Germany | Fully Funded

If you’re aiming to conduct research in Germany with full financial backing, the Humboldt Research Fellowship is an excellent opportunity. This fellowship doesn’t limit you to just one stage of your career. Whether you’re a fresh postdoc or a seasoned researcher, you get the freedom to choose your host institution and fully focus on your project. Plus, there’s no restriction on sticking to Germany alone—you can explore other European countries for your research if needed. This is a chance to advance your career while experiencing Germany’s vibrant research environment.

Fellowship Overview

The Humboldt Research Fellowship 2025-26 is a fully-funded program provided by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation. This fellowship allows researchers to select a host institution of their choice in Germany and carry out their research at various career stages. The program supports over 700 researchers annually, offering one of the most prestigious opportunities for research in Europe.

Fellowship Key Details

Host Country: Germany

Host Organization: Alexander von Humboldt Foundation

Duration: 6 to 24 months

Hand-Picked Interesting Piece: Are International Scholarships Usually Free?

Benefits of the Humboldt Research Fellowship

Monthly Stipend: Postdoctoral researchers receive €2,670, and experienced researchers get €3,170.

Travel Allowances: Funding for necessary travel within Germany and abroad, whether for research trips, conferences, or library work.

Medical & Liability Insurance: Financial help for health and liability insurance costs.

Family Support: Family allowances are available if your stay lasts at least three months, with additional support for single parents.

Research Cost Subsidy: Hosts in Germany receive a monthly subsidy of €800 for natural sciences/engineering and €500 for humanities/social sciences.

Language Support: A fellowship for an intensive German language course, including for your marital partner if needed.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, you should have completed your PhD within the last four years (for postdocs) or 12 years (for experienced researchers), though up to 16 years is allowed with a strong publication record. You’ll also need:

• Relevant publications in international journals
• A confirmation of research facilities from your host in Germany
• Two expert reviews, ideally including one from your PhD supervisor
• Proficiency in German or English, depending on your research field
• To have lived outside of Germany for at least 12 of the past 18 months before applying (for German nationals, five years outside the country is required)

Application Process

To apply, submit your materials online about 4-7 months before the selection date. Your referees will directly upload the expert reviews and host statements. Incomplete applications are not considered, so ensure everything is in order. A peer review committee of 60-70 academics will assess your application. Selection dates are held in March, July, and November. If you’re unsuccessful, you can reapply, but a unanimous rejection requires an 18-month wait.

Deadline

March, July, and November.

Also read: Leadership & Business Management Certification USA 2025: A Chance to Elevate Your Career

Final Words

The Humboldt Research Fellowship is not just funding for your research—it’s a door to international recognition and a prestigious network of scholars. With its generous financial support and opportunities to explore both Germany and Europe, it’s an excellent platform for advancing your career.

Frequently Asked Questions